Can I take Ashwagandha with Chromium?

Understanding the interactions, benefits, and safety of combining these two powerful supplements.

Ashwagandha
+
Chromium

Short answer

We found no direct interaction between Ashwagandha and Chromium in the sources below, but they share a caution.

Both have a note about thyroid medicine or thyroid tests (see each one below).

Both have a note about diabetes medicines (see each one below).

Ashwagandha

What it is: A plant root used in traditional Ayurvedic and Unani medicine, often called an adaptogen.

What the research says: Several small trials of 6 to 8 weeks found people felt less stress and anxiety, with doses around 500 to 600 mg a day working better than lower ones. A few small studies suggest a modest sleep benefit. It has not been studied thoroughly.

Cautions

  • Well tolerated for up to about 3 months; long-term safety isn't known.
  • Mild side effects can include upset stomach, loose stools, nausea and drowsiness.
  • It has been linked to liver injury in some people.
  • Not for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or who have prostate cancer.

Medicines to check

  • Thyroid medicine (ashwagandha may affect how the thyroid works)
  • Diabetes and blood-pressure medicines
  • Sedatives
  • Medicines that suppress the immune system

In Holitro: Ashwagandha (500 mg per capsule)

Source: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: Ashwagandha: Fact Sheet for Consumers (updated December 2023)

Chromium

What it is: A mineral found in many foods that may help the body use carbohydrates, fats and protein.

What the research says: Studies on blood sugar are mixed. The American Diabetes Association doesn't recommend it because it has no clear benefit.

Cautions

  • No harm has been shown, but research is limited. People with kidney or liver disease should be careful with high amounts.

Medicines to check

  • Insulin, metformin and other diabetes medicines: chromium may push blood sugar too low
  • Levothyroxine (thyroid medicine): chromium may reduce how much is absorbed

In Holitro: Chromium (1000 mcg per capsule)

Source: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: Chromium: Fact Sheet for Consumers (updated March 2021)

Check with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you take medication.

Check your stack — free

Educational information only, not medical advice. This reflects general ingredient overlap, not a personalized safety review. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before combining supplements, especially if you take medication, are pregnant or nursing, or manage a health condition. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.

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