Can Ashwagandha Help Increase Height in Children and Teens?

Understanding Ashwagandha for Increasing Height

Many people wish they were taller. Though height is mostly determined by genetics, some evidence suggests the herb ashwagandha may help increase height by supporting proper growth and development during youth.

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb used in Ayurvedic medicine that helps balance hormones and reduce stress. Some of its components may influence production of growth hormone and bone health, which play a role in height.

While research is limited, this herbal supplement may provide other benefits related to growth in children and teens when taken safely and appropriately.

How Ashwagandha May Help Increase Height

Heres how ashwagandha could help maximize growth potential:

Stimulates Growth Hormone

Human growth hormone (HGH) is essential for growth in height during childhood and adolescence. Some components in ashwagandha, like withanolides and withaferin A, may help stimulate natural HGH production.

Reduces Stress Hormones

High levels of the stress hormone cortisol can inhibit growth hormone and delay growth plates from closing. Ashwagandha helps lower cortisol and curb stress.

Supports Bone Health

Ashwagandha may enhance bone formation, density, and strength by increasing calcium retention and boosting vitamin D levels. Healthy bones that grow properly are essential for height.

Powerful Antioxidants

Antioxidants like withaferin A in ashwagandha combat free radicals that damage cells. This helps protect tissues, muscles, and bones from oxidative stress so the body can reach its full height potential.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Inflammation hinders proper growth. The natural anti-inflammatory properties in ashwagandha facilitate healthy development and growth during youth.

Who Can Benefit from Taking Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha supplements may help support growth in the following groups when taken safely:

Children

Ashwagandha could promote growth hormone levels, bone development, and general health in children. Consult a pediatrician first and use caution with dosage.

Teenagers

Teens looking to maximize growth potential before their plates close may see benefits from ashwagandha. Always follow dosage guidelines.

Young Adults

In early adulthood when some plates remain open, ashwagandha could still enhance bone health and balance hormones that influence height.

Those with Growth Disorders

For those with diagnosed growth disorders or delayed puberty, ashwagandha may support healthy development under a doctors supervision.

Athletes

Ashwagandhas anti-inflammatory properties could help young athletes grow properly by reducing growth plate injuries and supporting muscle growth.

Stunted Growth

If poor nutrition or illness has stunted growth, ashwagandha supplements may help support healthy bone development and strength when incorporated into a healing regimen.

How to Take Ashwagandha to Increase Height

If using ashwagandha to maximize growth potential, follow dosage guidelines carefully:

Consult a Doctor

Always discuss ashwagandha supplements with your pediatrician to ensure safety and supervision, especially for children.

Buy High Quality

Purchase pure, organic ashwagandha root extract from reputable brands to ensure potency and safety.

Follow Dosage Guidelines

Stick to appropriate doses for age and weight. Avoid exceeding recommended intake levels.

Mind Interactions

Be aware of potential contraindications with existing medications or health conditions when taking ashwagandha.

Allow Time

Consistency over months is needed to support growth with ashwagandha. Dont expect overnight results.

Combine with Lifestyle Factors

Ashwagandha works best alongside a healthy diet, physical activity, proper sleep, and low stress levels.

Ashwagandha Dosages Based on Age

These dosage recommendations can provide general guidance when using ashwagandha supplements for growth:

Children Under 12

250-500 mg once or twice daily or follow product instructions. Start with lower doses.

Teens 12-17

500-650 mg twice per day or as directed. Higher weight teens can take more.

Young Adults 18-25

500-1000 mg twice daily. Females take 500-650 mg daily.

Pregnant or Nursing Women

Avoid ashwagandha unless approved by a doctor as effects are unknown.

Again, consult a healthcare professional to advise appropriate ashwagandha dosages, especially for children.

Other Ways Ashwagandha May Help with Growth

In addition to height increase, ashwagandha offers other benefits related to development and growth when taken properly:

Builds Strength and Muscle

Ashwagandha boosts testosterone levels which helps increase muscle mass and strength. This also supports growth.

Increases Bone Density

Research shows ashwagandha may improve bone mineral density to strengthen bones and prevent fractures or weaknesses.

Boosts Immunity

Ashwagandha acts as an immunomodulator to boost immune health. This provides protection during development.

Enhances Cognitive Function

Ashwagandha has neuroprotective effects that support focus, memory, and cognitive abilities kids need while growing.

Improves Cardiorespiratory Fitness

Shown to increase VO2 max and endurance, ashwagandha facilitates greater oxygen supply needed for tissue growth.

Regulates Thyroid Hormones

Ashwagandha helps regulate thyroid hormones T3 and T4 which are crucial for childhood development and metabolism.

Is Ashwagandha Completely Safe for Children?

While considered generally safe when used properly, there are some considerations regarding ashwagandha for kids:

• Effects on young children are not well studied
• Large doses could potentially cause side effects
• May interact with medications children take
• Can exacerbate autoimmune conditions
• Long term safety is unknown

For these reasons, pediatricians recommend using caution with ashwagandha for youth under 18. Always consult a doctor before giving this supplement to a child.

Healthy Habits that Help Increase Height

While ashwagandha can provide support, a well-rounded healthy lifestyle maximizes growth potential, especially during developmental years. Helpful habits include:

Proper Rest and Sleep

Kids and teens need ample deep sleep to facilitate muscle repair and optimal growth hormone secretion overnight.

Balanced Nutrition

A nutritious, balanced diet with protein, calcium, minerals, and vitamins promotes growth and fights disease.

Regular Exercise

Fitness appropriate for age like sports, activities, and outdoor play builds strong muscles and bones.

<h

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.