From the Research
Ashwagandha root is not recommended for children under 18 years of age without medical supervision. The provided evidence does not include studies on the safety and efficacy of ashwagandha root in children, and the majority of the studies were conducted on adults 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. While ashwagandha has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for various conditions, there is insufficient scientific research on its safety and appropriate dosing for children.
If you're considering ashwagandha for your child, it's essential to consult with a pediatrician or healthcare provider first. They can evaluate your child's specific health needs and determine if ashwagandha might be appropriate. The concern with giving herbs like ashwagandha to children stems from their developing bodies and different metabolism compared to adults, which can affect how they process these substances. Additionally, ashwagandha may interact with certain medications or affect hormone levels.
For children experiencing stress, anxiety, or sleep issues, safer approaches include:
- Establishing consistent routines
- Ensuring adequate physical activity
- Teaching relaxation techniques
- Providing a balanced diet These natural approaches have proven benefits for children's wellbeing without the potential risks of herbal supplements. The most recent and highest quality study on ashwagandha root extract was conducted in 2023, which found that it alleviates stress, anxiety, and improves quality of life in healthy adults 2. However, this study was conducted on adults, and its findings cannot be directly applied to children.