If you are looking for natural ways to make your hair stronger, healthier and fuller, you may have come across Ashwagandha. This ancient herbal supplement is often praised for its positive effects on stress and overall health, but can it really do anything for your hair? Find out exactly what Ashwagandha is, what science says about its effect on hair growth and hair quality, and what you need to know about possible side effects.
If you are looking for natural ways to make your hair stronger, healthier and fuller, you may have come across Ashwagandha. This ancient herbal supplement is often praised for its positive effects on stress and overall health, but can it really do anything for your hair? Find out exactly what Ashwagandha is, what science says about its effect on hair growth and hair quality, and what you need to know about possible side effects.
Ashwagandha, scientifically known as Withania somnifera, is a plant that has been used for thousands of years in Ayurveda, the traditional medicine of India. The root of the plant contains substances such as withanolides, which are associated with health-promoting effects.
In modern studies, Ashwagandha is often investigated for its adaptogenic effect, which means it helps your body cope better with stress. There are also indications that it has anti-inflammatory properties, contains antioxidants and can support hormone balance.
Traditionally, but also nowadays, Ashwagandha is used for:
In addition to lotions and serums containing Ashwagandha extract, supplements are also available in capsule or tablet form. These are taken orally and work from the inside out. Ashwagandha can thus support the body in managing stress and hormone balance, factors that play a major role in the health of your hair.
A recent study (Yerram et al., 2023) examined the effects of a serum containing Ashwagandha root extract applied to the scalp for 16 weeks. The results were promising:
This shows that Ashwagandha, when applied topically, can support the scalp around the hair follicles and prolong the growth phase of the hair.
In another clinical study (Vaidya et al., 2024), healthy men were given 1000 mg of Ashwagandha extract daily for four weeks. The main findings:
Please note: The RIVM (The Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment) currently advises against the use of products containing Huperzia serrata, Tabernanthe iboga and Ashwagandha. However, the NPN trade association emphasises that Ashwagandha is generally safe, provided it is not used during pregnancy, breastfeeding or in combination with certain medications. Rare reports of liver problems have not yet been scientifically linked to Ashwagandha; other factors or hypersensitivity may play a role.
This gives confidence that Ashwagandha, in the correct dose, can be used safely, both in the short term and in longer-term applications (up to 12 months, according to additional studies).
Hair loss is often linked to stress. Chronic stress increases the hormone cortisol, which can disrupt the hair cycle and keep the hair in the resting phase. Several studies have shown that Ashwagandha can lower cortisol and reduce stress symptoms.
In a clinical study, 64 adults were given Ashwagandha or a placebo daily for eight weeks (Choudhary et al., 2017). The results were clear:
This indirect effect can create a favourable environment for healthy hair growth, as less stress and a more stable hormone balance help hair follicles remain active.
In addition, studies show that Ashwagandha has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can contribute to a healthy scalp and better blood flow around the hair roots (Choudhary et al., 2017).
Although Ashwagandha has many benefits, it is not a miracle cure, and you should take the following into account:
Ashwagandha is a versatile herb that can be used both in supplement form and in hair care products. Scientific studies show that a serum containing Ashwagandha extract can stimulate hair growth and that oral intake is safe and can reduce stress, an important factor in hair loss.
Nevertheless, it is indispensable to remain realistic: it is not a direct replacement for medical treatments for hereditary baldness or other hair diseases. However, Ashwagandha can be a valuable, natural support for those striving for healthier and stronger hair.
Choudhary, D., Bhattacharyya, S., & Bose, S. (2017). Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) Root Extract in Reducing Stress and Anxiety in Adults: A Double-Blind, Randomised, Placebo-Controlled Study. Cureus, 9(9), e1581. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.1581 IVG. (n.d.). Ashwagandha. Retrieved from https://www.ivg-info.nl/voedingssupplementen/kruiden/ashwagandha/
Vaidya, V. G., et al. (2024). Clinical safety and tolerability evaluation of Withania somnifera. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaim.2023.100689
Yerram, C., et al. (2023). Clinical evaluation of Withania somnifera root extract serum application on hair growth. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaim.2023.100647
