Can taking Ashwagandha cause interference with anesthesia?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am scheduled for sinus surgery the day after tomorrow. I have been given a list of medications that should not be taken and I have followed that. However, I have been taking ashwagandha (herbal supplement) 470 mg once a day to help with anxiety.

I read online that this may interfere with anesthesia. I will be sure to mention this to the anesthesiologist on the day of surgery when I arrive, but I am curious if this is a cause for concern beyond just letting them know, or should I postpone surgery? I last took it yesterday night and will not take it again prior to surgery. Please advise.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com. I have read through your query in detail. Please find my observations below.

Ashwagandha or Indian ginseng is a well-known Ayurvedic herbal medicine. The following constitute its important effects on the human body:

1. It causes an increase in energy levels.

2. It might interact with Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) and can cause manic episodes in patients.

3. It might be used as an aphrodisiac (to stimulate sexual desire) and for anti-aging.

4. In some people it might cause irritability, insomnia (sleeplessness), hypoglycemia (low blood sugar level), hypertension, skin rashes, and nervousness.

5. It causes tachycardia (increased heart rate) and hypertension, particularly in those patients who are on other stimulants or have cardiovascular disease.

6. It interacts with oral anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, corticosteroids, and hypoglycemic agents.

Taking Ashwagandha before surgery might predispose the patient to perioperative bleeding. It may be a concern for complications during anesthesia.

In conclusion, it is suggested that Ashwagandha has to be stopped for a week before a planned surgery unless such a surgery is very urgent to be performed or when the benefits outweigh the risks involved. Please discuss this with your doctor and reschedule your surgery for a week if recommended.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.