Ashwagandha - Ethinyl Estradiol, Levonorgestrel Interaction
Herbal: Ashwagandha
Also Known As: Withania somnifera, Ajagandha, Amangura, Asan, Asana, Asgand, Asgandh, Asgandha, Ashagandha, Ashvagandha, Ashwaganda, Ashwanga, Asoda, Asundha, Aswagandha, Avarada, Ayurvedic Ginseng, Cerise d'Hiver, Clustered Wintercherry, Ghoda Asoda
Drug: Ethinyl Estradiol, Levonorgestrel
Brand names:
Levlite 28, Tri-Levlen 21, Tri-Levlen 28, Levlite, Trivora-28, Triphasil, Levora, Levlen 21, Trivora, Alesse 21, Alesse 28, Preven, Alesse, Seasonale, Seasonique, Aviane, Lessina, Lutera, Levlen, Portia, Enpresse, Tri-Levlen, Jolessa, Quasense
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Apr 13, 2024
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Ethinyl Estradiol, Levonorgestrel and Ashwagandha. This does not mean the potential for an interaction does not exist, however. There is often a lack of studies and data surrounding traditional medicine, especially concerning drug interactions, so it is important to always consult your provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
Pharmacist Analysis
The use of ashwagandha may result in potential interactions with certain classes of medication due to its known effects. However, these interactions are generally considered to be of minimal clinical significance.
Nevertheless, it is recommended to exercise caution when using ashwagandha in conjunction with the following classes of drugs:
- Antidiabetes
- Antihypertensives
- Benzodiazepines
- CNS Depressants
- Immunosuppressant
- Thyroid Hormones
Although ashwagandha can typically be used safely in combination with these drug classes, it is crucial to inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking to ensure proper monitoring. Based on available information, ashwagandha does not appear to cause any adverse interactions with the specific drug mentioned in this inquiry.
Ashwagandha With Birth Control Pills (Ethinyl Estradiol, Levonorgestrel) - Additional Details
Fortunately, there is no evidence to suggest that ashwagandha has any significant interaction with birth control pills.
Birth control pills work by suppressing ovulation, which prevents pregnancy. They contain synthetic versions of the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle and prevent the release of eggs from the ovaries.
Ashwagandha, on the other hand, is an adaptogenic herb that is thought to help the body cope with stress by regulating the levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, in the body.
While ashwagandha has not been extensively studied for its potential interactions with birth control pills, there is currently no known mechanism by which ashwagandha would interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills or vice versa.
It is important to note that some preliminary studies have noted that ashwagandha may have an effect on female fertility.
In a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2015, women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) who took ashwagandha root powder for 16 weeks had significant improvements in markers of ovarian function and insulin sensitivity compared to those who took a placebo.
Another study published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine in 2012 found that ashwagandha root extract improved markers of reproductive health in women with subfertility.
However, as mentioned, ashwagandha is not known to interfere with birth control pills or how they work to prevent pregnancy. They are generally considered safe to combine.
References
- Clinical Evaluation of the Spermatogenic Activity of the Root Extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in Oligospermic Males: A Pilot Study. Hindawi
- Withania somnifera improves semen quality by regulating reproductive hormone levels and oxidative stress in seminal plasma of infertile males. Fertility & Sterility
Ashwagandha Overview
Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is a herb commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine. It is native to India, and is used to treat a variety of conditions, including stress, anxiety, and insomnia. Some studies have also suggested that ashwagandha may have potential health benefits for conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. However, more research is needed. Ashwagandha is often referred to as an adaptogenic herb, which is theorized to help the body to adapt to stress.
Ashwagandha - More Interactions
Ashwagandha interacts with 623 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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