The Potential Benefits of Taking Ashwagandha and Metformin Together

The Potential Benefits of Taking Ashwagandha and Metformin Together

Ashwagandha and metformin are two supplements that have each been shown to provide a variety of health benefits. Ashwagandha is an ancient Ayurvedic herb, while metformin is a modern drug used to treat type 2 diabetes. There is some evidence that taking ashwagandha and metformin together may offer synergistic advantages. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the uses, benefits, and potential side effects of ashwagandha and metformin.

What is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a small woody shrub in the nightshade family. It has been used for over 3,000 years in Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of conditions. The name ashwagandha comes from the Sanskrit words “ashva,” meaning horse, and “gandha,” meaning smell. This refers to the distinct horse-like odor of the plant’s roots. Ashwagandha is sometimes referred to as Indian ginseng or winter cherry.

The main active compounds in ashwagandha are withanolides, which have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-stress, and immunomodulating properties. Withanolides such as withaferin A promote healthy brain cell communication and have neuroprotective effects. Human and animal studies show that ashwagandha extract can reduce markers of inflammation, Cortisol levels, anxiety and stress, and blood sugar levels.

Benefits of Ashwagandha

Here are some of the evidence-based benefits of ashwagandha:

• May reduce anxiety and stress
• Can lower blood sugar levels
• Has anti-cancer properties in test tubes
• May reduce Cortisol levels
• May reduce symptoms of depression
• May boost testosterone and increase fertility in men
• May boost brain function, memory, and reaction time

The optimal dosage of ashwagandha depends on the type of supplement. Extracts are more effective than crude powder at lower doses of 250–500 mg per day. Talk to your doctor before taking ashwagandha to ensure safety and proper dosage.

What is Metformin?

Metformin (Glucophage) is an oral medication that has been used to treat type 2 diabetes for over 60 years. It belongs to a class of drugs called biguanides, which work by lowering glucose production in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity.

Metformin is the first-line medication prescribed for type 2 diabetes. It can help lower A1C levels by 1–2%. Metformin may also aid weight loss and improve cholesterol levels in some individuals. It is generally well-tolerated, safe, and inexpensive.

Benefits of Metformin

In addition to treating type 2 diabetes, metformin may offer other advantages:

• May promote weight loss and prevent obesity
• May lower risk of heart disease
• May protect against certain cancers
• May slow aging and extend lifespan
• May improve neurological function
• May reduce PCOS symptoms in women

The most effective dose of metformin for diabetes ranges from 1,000–2,500 mg per day. Doses are often divided into two or three smaller doses taken with meals. Side effects may include digestive upset, metallic taste, and low vitamin B12 levels.

How Ashwagandha and Metformin Work

Ashwagandha and metformin appear to have some overlapping benefits, such as lowering blood sugar levels and reducing anxiety and stress. However, they work in different ways within the body.

How Ashwagandha Works

The withanolides and other compounds in ashwagandha exert their effects through these mechanisms:

• Reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines
• Modulate Cortisol and stress hormones
• Regulate neurotransmitters like GABA, serotonin, and acetylcholine
• Boost antioxidant enzymes
• Enhance insulin sensitivity
• Stimulate thyroid hormones

Through these actions, ashwagandha can dampen inflammation, balance hormones and neurotransmitters, reduce oxidative stress, and improve energy metabolism. These broad effects may account for ashwagandha’s diverse therapeutic uses.

How Metformin Works

Metformin's primary mechanism is decreasing glucose production in the liver. It does this by:

• Inhibiting mitochondrial complex 1, which slows down gluconeogenesis
• Activating AMPK, which inhibits gluconeogenesis enzymes
• Reducing absorption of glucose from the GI tract
• Increasing insulin sensitivity of muscle and fat cells

Metformin also appears to alter gut microbiota in a beneficial way. The combined effects of metformin lead to lower blood glucose and insulin levels.

Potential Synergistic Effects

Based on their mechanisms of action, there are several potential advantages to combining ashwagandha and metformin:

Blood Sugar Control

Both ashwagandha and metformin have been shown to lower blood sugar levels in humans. Taking them together may have an additive effect for improving blood glucose control in people with diabetes or prediabetes.

Insulin Sensitivity

By activating AMPK and via effects on mitochondria, metformin can make cells more insulin sensitive. Ashwagandha may also improve insulin sensitivity through thyroid hormone activation. Combining the two could potentially amplify these effects.

Weight Management

Metformin is associated with mild weight loss in people with diabetes. Several studies have found ashwagandha can reduce body weight and BMI. Together, the two supplements may promote greater weight control than either alone.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Chronic inflammation contributes to numerous diseases and aging. Ashwagandha has potent anti-inflammatory properties. Metformin may also inhibit pro-inflammatory pathways by decreasing reactive oxygen species and regulating gut bacteria. Using both together may provide greater anti-inflammatory benefits.

Stress Reduction

Ashwagandha is arguably most renowned for its adaptogenic properties that help the body cope with stress. By lowering Cortisol and balancing neurotransmitters, ashwagandha can reduce anxiety and stress. Metformin may also decrease Cortisol levels and modulate brain chemicals involved in mood.

Neuroprotection

Some research suggests both ashwagandha and metformin may have neuroprotective benefits, such as improving cognitive function and protecting against neurodegenerative disease. The combination could provide greater protective effects for brain health as we age.

Safety and Side Effects

Ashwagandha and metformin are generally well-tolerated supplements when used under proper medical supervision. However, there are some cautions to be aware of.

Ashwagandha Safety and Side Effects

• May cause drowsiness or sedation
• Can lower blood pressure
• May increase thyroid hormone levels
• Generally avoid in pregnancy except under medical guidance
• Possible drug interactions

Start with lower doses of ashwagandha and monitor for any side effects. Avoid taking it before surgery or with sedatives. Ashwagandha has not been shown to interact with metformin but can potentially interact with medications for diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, and sedation.

Metformin Safety and Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal upset (diarrhea, cramps, nausea)
• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• Lactic acidosis (very rare)
• Contraindicated in kidney impairment, liver disease, heart failure
• Drug interactions with other diabetes medications

The most common side effect of metformin is digestive discomfort when starting treatment. Extended release forms of metformin may improve GI tolerability. Kidney function, vitamin B12 levels, and drug interactions should be monitored.

Overall, both supplements appear to be safe with low risk of serious adverse effects when used appropriately under medical supervision. However, it’s a good idea to start with conservative doses and watch for any problematic symptoms.

Dosage Recommendations

Working with your doctor, you can determine the optimal ashwagandha and metformin dosage for your needs. Here are some general dosage guidelines:

Ashwagandha Dosage

• Powdered root: 1–6 grams per day
• Extract: 250–500 mg once or twice daily

With extracts, lower doses of 250-300 mg per day are a good starting point. Ashwagandha is not generally recommended long-term.

Metformin Dosage for Diabetes

• Starting dose: 500 mg once or twice daily
• Effective dose: 1,000–2,500 mg per day
• Maximum dose: 2,500 mg per day

Metformin dosage should be increased gradually over weeks to improve tolerance. Extended release forms can also enhance tolerability.

The Bottom Line

In summary, ashwagandha and metformin are supplements with some overlapping and complementary benefits. Ashwagandha is an herbal remedy used in Ayurvedic medicine, while metformin is a conventional medication for type 2 diabetes.

Some of the key benefits of ashwagandha include reducing stress, increasing testosterone, lowering blood sugar levels, and improving memory and cognition. Metformin is highly effective at decreasing blood glucose levels and may also promote weight loss, heart health, and anti-aging effects.

Taking ashwagandha and metformin together could theoretically provide greater advantages than either supplement alone. Some of the possible synergistic effects include better blood sugar control, increased insulin sensitivity, weight loss, reduced inflammation and stress, and neuroprotection.

However, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and interactions with medications. When used correctly under medical guidance, this combination may offer some added health-promoting properties.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.