Indications
Habb-e Asgand is a Unani pill (habb means pill) whose main ingredient is asgand, also known as ashwagandha (Withania somnifera root). It is traditionally used as a general tonic for weakness and tiredness, nervous exhaustion, stress, poor sleep, low stamina and joint or back aches, and is sometimes used for low sexual vigour in men. Some small studies suggest ashwagandha may help with stress and sleep, but overall evidence is limited and it does not cure any disease.
How It Works
Ashwagandha root contains natural compounds called withanolides. These are thought to help the body cope with stress (an adaptogen effect), possibly by lowering the stress hormone cortisol, and to have mild calming, anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxing actions. The exact way it works in people is not fully understood.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by a registered Unani practitioner, usually with water or milk after meals. Do not take more than the stated amount, and do not use it continuously for long periods without advice.
Interactions
Ashwagandha may add to the effect of sedatives and sleeping medicines such as Diazepam, Clonazepam or Zolpidem, and to alcohol. It may increase thyroid hormone levels, so people taking Levothyroxine need monitoring. It may lower blood sugar and blood pressure, so care is needed with diabetes and blood pressure medicines. Because it may stimulate the immune system, it could reduce the effect of immunosuppressants such as Tacrolimus or Ciclosporin.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy.
- Allergy to ashwagandha or other ingredients.
- Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).
- Liver disease, autoimmune conditions (such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis) or hormone-sensitive prostate cancer, unless a doctor agrees.
Side Effects
Possible effects include drowsiness, stomach upset, nausea and loose stools. Rare cases of liver injury have been reported with ashwagandha products.
Get urgent medical help if you notice yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, pale stools, severe tiredness with loss of appetite or pain in the upper right tummy, or signs of a severe allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Do not use during pregnancy, as ashwagandha has traditionally been linked with miscarriage. There is not enough safety information for breastfeeding, so avoid it unless a doctor advises otherwise.
Precautions and Warnings
It may cause drowsiness, so take care when driving or operating machinery. Stop taking it two weeks before planned surgery because of possible effects with anaesthesia. Ongoing tiredness, low mood or sexual problems can have medical causes that need a doctor’s assessment.
Overdose
Large amounts may cause marked drowsiness, stomach upset, vomiting and diarrhoea. Seek medical help and take the pack with you.
Therapeutic Class
Unani herbal preparation (general tonic)
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.