Warning Issued Against Consuming Sleep-Inducing Berry Concoctions
Boosted performance, improved sleep, or stress alleviation: That's what vendors of sleepberry solutions claim. Yet, medical professionals argue that the alleged advantages of these treatments are not backed by solid scientific evidence. In fact, they could potentially pose serious health threats.
The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) advises against utilizing sleepberry concoctions, frequently labeled as Ashwagandha. Specifically, children, pregnant and nursing women, and individuals with liver disease are advised to steer clear of the powders, capsules, droplets, or infusions found in stores and online, according to the BfR. Regrettably, there is no verified positive effect of these remedies.
Ashwagandha solutions are also known as sleepberries, Indian ginseng, or winter cherries in German, as per the BfR. The plant, known scientifically as Withania somnifera, is prevalent in Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, Asia, Spain, and Greece. Vendors often touted benefits such as heightened performance, enhanced sleep, or stress relief. Nevertheless, these touted benefits are not scientifically proven, and the potential health risks associated with these plant-based remedies are not well-researched, experts stated.
The current body of research on these remedies is deemed inadequate. Reports of side-effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, along with dizziness, headaches, lethargy, and skin rashes, have surfaced. "Furthermore, there are indications that these preparations may impact the immune system and the endocrine system, with consequences for cortisol and blood sugar levels, thyroid hormones, and sex hormones," the experts said.
Liver harm reports
The BfR cautioned that reports of liver damage possibly linked to Ashwagandha-laden concoctions merit heightened attention. "Additionally, there are signs of interactions between Ashwagandha preparations and other medications, such as those that control blood sugar (antidiabetics), blood pressure (antihypertensives), and the immune system (immunosuppressants)," the institute warned. Based on the currently available risk assessments and internationally registered case reports, the BfR and other European authorities recommend avoiding Ashwagandha-laden concoctions.
Historically, Ashwagandha plants have been utilized in Ayurvedic medicine, primarily the roots or preparations of them. However, the type and content of active ingredients in the food supplements available in Europe vary significantly, the BfR noted. Unlike medicinal products, even those with plant-based active ingredients, food supplements do not undergo a comparable regulatory approval process before they are introduced into the market. They are not specifically tested for safety and tolerance, for which many manufacturers, importers, suppliers, and distributors are responsible.
Despite the claims of vendors, the scientifically proven benefits of sleepberry solutions, such as Ashwagandha, are lacking. The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment advises caution due to potential health risks, including liver damage and interactions with medications.
