Does Ashwagandha Interact With Progesterone?
In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses the combined use of ashwagandha and a progestin-only pill.
Does ashwagandha interact with the progesterone only pill?
Apr 08, 2024- There is no clinically significant interaction between ashwagandha and progesterone-only contraceptives or the synthetic progestins they contain. While ashwagandha may affect certain hormone levels like FSH and LH, there is no evidence it interferes with how progestin-only birth control works. It's still a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider before starting ashwagandha, especially if you have specific health concerns.
Answer
Thank you for your question!
When you mention the progesterone-only pill, I assume you're referring to oral contraceptives containing only a 'progestin,' which is a synthetic form of progesterone that mimics its effects, such as suppressing ovulation.
There are several different progestins on the market, with the most common being norethindrone. Norethindrone is the active ingredient in various branded products, including Errin, Camilla, Ortho Micronor, and others.
Our 'drug-herbal interaction checker' does not indicate any clinically significant interactions between ashwagandha and norethindrone. Similarly, there is no known interaction for ashwagandha and progesterone.
It's worth noting that several studies suggest ashwagandha supplementation might impact some hormone levels, such as FSH, LH, estradiol, and testosterone.
For example, a study in women noted a reduction in serum FSH (Follicle-stimulating Hormone) and LH (Luteinizing Hormone) after ashwagandha supplementation.
While ashwagandha might impact the levels of certain hormones, there is no evidence to suggest that it interferes with the mechanism of action of progestin-only contraceptives. Nevertheless, as with any supplement or medication, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before starting a new regimen, especially if you have specific health concerns or are taking other medications.
Final Words
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References & sources
- Withania somnifera improves semen quality by regulating reproductive hormone levels and oxidative stress in seminal plasma of infertile males — PubMed
- Effect of an ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) root extract on climacteric symptoms in women during perimenopause: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study — PubMed
Glossary — Terms in This Answer
- Progestin
- A synthetic hormone that mimics the effects of natural progesterone in the body.
- Ovulation
- The release of an egg from the ovary, which is the process that can lead to pregnancy.
- Norethindrone
- A common synthetic progestin used in many birth control pills.
- Drug-herbal interaction checker
- A tool or database used to identify whether medications and herbal supplements have dangerous effects when taken together.
- FSH
- Follicle-stimulating Hormone, a hormone that helps control the menstrual cycle and egg production.
- LH
- Luteinizing Hormone, a hormone that triggers ovulation and helps regulate the menstrual cycle.
- Serum
- The liquid part of blood that remains after blood cells are removed.
- Mechanism of action
- The way a drug or substance works in the body to produce its effects.
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Doctor of Pharmacy, board certified clinical pharmacist (BCPS), American Herbalist Guild, Medication Therapy Management certified
Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS, is a licensed pharmacist with more than 13 years of experience across retail pharmacy, clinical pharmacy, medication safety, pharmacy program development, and healthcare administration. He is the founder of HelloPharmacist.com, where he helps patients...
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