Ashwagandha, a revered herb in Ayurvedic medicine, has garnered significant attention in recent years for its potential health benefits. From stress relief to enhanced athletic performance, this adaptogenic herb is touted as a versatile supplement for overall well-being. However, as its popularity grows, so do questions about its side effects. One common concern is whether ashwagandha can cause acne. Let’s get into the science behind this claim and explore whether ashwagandha might be linked to breakouts.

What is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha, scientifically known as Withania somnifera, is a medicinal herb native to India and Southeast Asia. Traditionally used in Ayurvedic practices, it is often referred to as “Indian ginseng” due to its rejuvenating properties. The herb is primarily derived from the roots and leaves of the plant and is available in various forms, including powders, capsules, and topical creams.

Common Uses of Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is celebrated for its adaptogenic properties, meaning it helps the body adapt to stress and maintain balance. Common applications include:

• Stress and Anxiety Relief: Ashwagandha is believed to lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, thereby reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation¹.
• Enhanced Athletic Performance: Some studies suggest that ashwagandha can improve muscle strength and endurance, making it popular among athletes².
• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: The herb may help reduce inflammation and support immune function³.
• Blood Sugar Regulation: Preliminary research indicates that ashwagandha might help lower blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes⁴.

While these benefits are promising, it’s important to note that much of the research is still emerging, and more extensive studies are needed to confirm these effects conclusively.

The Potential Link Between Ashwagandha and Acne

Hormonal Effects and Acne

One of the reasons ashwagandha is suspected to cause acne lies in its potential impact on hormone levels. Some studies suggest that ashwagandha may influence testosterone levels. Testosterone, a hormone present in both men and women, can convert into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is known to increase oil production in the skin. Excess oil can clog pores, leading to the development of acne⁵.

Scientific Insights

Research on ashwagandha’s effect on hormones is still in its infancy. For instance, an eight-week study found that participants taking ashwagandha extract showed an increase in testosterone levels compared to those who took a placebo⁶. While higher testosterone levels can be beneficial for muscle growth and overall vitality, they might inadvertently contribute to acne in some individuals.

Moreover, another study indicated that ashwagandha supplementation could improve sperm quality in men by boosting testosterone and other related hormones⁷. However, the relationship between these hormonal changes and skin health remains unclear, and more targeted research is needed to establish a direct connection between ashwagandha and acne.

Individual Variability

It’s important to recognize that everyone’s body responds differently to supplements. While some individuals may experience an increase in acne due to hormonal fluctuations caused by ashwagandha, others might not notice any skin changes at all. Factors such as genetics, overall diet, skincare routine, and existing hormonal balance play significant roles in how one’s skin reacts to any supplement.

Balancing Benefits and Side Effects

Potential Benefits of Ashwagandha

Despite concerns about acne, ashwagandha offers a range of potential health benefits that make it a valuable addition to many people’s wellness routines:

• Stress Reduction: By lowering cortisol levels, ashwagandha can help manage stress and anxiety, which themselves can be triggers for acne¹.
• Improved Sleep Quality: Better sleep supports overall health and can contribute to clearer skin⁸.
• Enhanced Physical Performance: Increased muscle strength and endurance are beneficial for fitness enthusiasts and athletes².
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Reducing inflammation can have positive effects on various aspects of health, including skin health³.

Monitoring and Moderation

If you decide to incorporate ashwagandha into your regimen, it’s crucial to monitor your body’s response. Start with a lower dosage to see how your skin reacts and gradually increase if needed. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet, proper hydration, and a consistent skincare routine can help mitigate any potential negative effects on your skin.

Consult with a Healthcare Professional

Before adding ashwagandha or any new supplement to your routine, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications. A professional can provide personalized advice based on your health history and help you weigh the potential benefits against any risks.

Conclusion

Ashwagandha is a powerful herb with a multitude of potential health benefits, from stress relief to enhanced athletic performance. While there is some speculation that it might contribute to acne through hormonal changes, the scientific evidence remains limited and inconclusive. Individual responses vary, and factors such as genetics and overall health play significant roles in how ashwagandha affects your skin.

If you’re considering trying ashwagandha, start with a low dose and monitor your skin’s response. Balancing its use with a healthy lifestyle and skincare routine can help you enjoy its benefits while minimizing any potential side effects. As always, consulting with a healthcare professional ensures that you make informed and safe choices tailored to your unique health needs.

Stay Informed and Take Care

Understanding the intricacies of how supplements like ashwagandha interact with your body is essential for making informed health decisions. While ashwagandha holds promise, it’s important to approach its use thoughtfully, keeping in mind both its potential benefits and risks. Your skin health, overall well-being, and individual response should guide your choices in incorporating this herb into your wellness journey.

References

1. Chandrasekhar, K., Kapoor, J., & Anishetty, S. (2012). A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, 34(3), 255-262. doi:10.4103/0253-7176.106022
2. Wankhede, S., Langade, D., Joshi, K., Sinha, S. R., & Bhattacharyya, S. (2015). Examining the effect of Withania somnifera supplementation on muscle strength and recovery: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 12, 43. doi:10.1186/s12970-015-0104-9
3. Singh, N., Bhalla, M., de Jager, P., & Gilca, M. (2011). An overview on ashwagandha: A Rasayana (rejuvenator) of Ayurveda. African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines, 8(5), 707-713. doi:10.4314/ajtcam.v8i5.10
4. Salve, J., Pate, S., Debnath, K., Langade, D., & Mahadevan, S. (2019). Adaptogenic and Anxiolytic Effects of Ashwagandha Root Extract in Healthy Adults: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Clinical Study. Cureus, 11(12), e6415. doi:10.7759/cureus.6415
5. Mahdi, A. A., Shukla, K. K., Ahmad, M., Rajender, S., & Ibrahim, O. S. (2009). Withania somnifera Improves Semen Quality by Regulating Reproductive Hormone Levels and Oxidative Stress in Semen of Infertile Males. Fertility and Sterility, 92(4), 1255-1261.e1. doi:10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.08.071
6. Lopresti, A. L., et al. (2019). A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study Examining the Hormonal and Vitality Effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in Aging, Overweight Males. American Journal of Men’s Health. doi:10.1177/1557988319835147
7. Sengupta, P., et al. (2017). Role of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) in the management of male infertility. Reproductive Biomedicine Online, 34(4), 437-444. doi:10.1016/j.rbmo.2017.10.005
8. Langade, D., et al. (2019). Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Insomnia and Anxiety: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Study. Cureus, 11(9), e5793. doi:10.7759/cureus.5793