NutraIngredients has reported that several Nordic countries are considering following Denmark’s lead in banning ashwagandha due to a negative risk assessment. The Technical University of Denmark (DTU) concluded that the root or extract of the root could negatively affect thyroid and sex hormones. Danish authorities have subsequently used the EU’s Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) to flag ashwagandha-containing products marketed online across multiple countries, deeming the breach “potentially serious”. This has led authorities in other countries to question whether similar measures are required. However, industry experts have criticised the flawed report for being uncritically cited by regulators. These experts argue that the report’s studies included the leaves and stems of the ashwagandha plant, whereas it is always the root used in traditional Indian medicine. The leaves contain high concentrations of substances that should not be used in dietary supplements for an extended period, and the composition of these parts is entirely different from that of the roots. As a result, these experts stand by the ingredient’s safety, and in fact, the KSM-66 ashwagandha supplement has proven efficacy. Adulteration has nothing to do with ashwagandha’s safety and everything to do with inadequate monitoring of supplements. While some companies may proceed with caution, others have no issue with producing ashwagandha-containing products and are in extensive discussions with regulatory bodies to set the record straight. Researchers need to stop relying on incomplete case studies and look into proper intervention trials in humans.
Amid safety concerns, ashwagandha is defended by experts.
