France issues opinion on the potential adverse effects of Ashwagandha
France
Jun 17, 2024
On the 19th of April, 2024, the National Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health Safety (ANSES) of France endorsed conclusions from the Plants Working Group and the Human Nutrition Expert Committee. This assessment aligns with previous reports by Germany (2012), Denmark (2020), and the Netherlands (2024) regarding the risks of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) supplements. The data quality is insufficient to establish a safe consumption level due to poorly characterized plant extracts in studies.
ANSES advises individuals with thyroid, liver, or heart conditions, hyperandrogenism, pregnant women, and those on sedatives to avoid Ashwagandha supplements due to potential adverse effects. Caution is also recommended for breastfeeding women and children under 18. Given potential drug interactions, it is essential to inform healthcare providers about supplement use.
ANSES calls for European harmonization of regulations on plant-based supplements and enhanced coordination among EU risk assessment bodies to ensure consumer safety. Health professionals and manufacturers are urged to report any adverse effects to the Nutrivigilance system.
For further information (in English), click on the Link
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