Government has banned Ashwagandha leaves, saying it is dangerous for health, know what is safe in the capsules.

News India Live, Digital Desk: If you are also consuming Ashwagandha indiscriminately to reduce stress or increase immunity, then this news is very important for you. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has taken a tough decision regarding the use of Ashwagandha Leaves. The government has now completely banned the use of Ashwagandha leaves as dietary supplements. This decision has been taken following the recommendations of the Ministry of AYUSH, which warned about the possible side effects of the leaves. Why ban the leaves? Experts expressed concern that Ashwagandha has been used in Ayurveda for centuries, but traditionally only its ‘root’ has been considered a medicine. Experts say that Ashwagandha leaves contain some alkaloids and elements which can have adverse effects on the liver and other organs of the body. FSSAI has clarified that keeping the safety standards in mind, the leaves cannot be allowed to be included in food products or supplements. What about tablets and capsules? The biggest question in the minds of consumers is whether the Ashwagandha tablets and capsules available in the market are safe or not. According to health experts, supplements made from the ‘root extract’ of Ashwagandha are completely safe. The root has been proven to reduce anxiety, improve sleep quality, and increase physical strength. However, customers will now have to read the product label carefully to ensure that it does not contain any trace of leaves. It can have adverse effects on liver and health. Scientists argue that uncontrolled consumption of Ashwagandha leaves can cause ‘hepatotoxicity’ i.e. spread of poison in the liver. Many international researches have also revealed that the extract of leaves instead of roots can be risky for health. Based on this, the Government of India has taken this protective step to ensure the quality of the supplements sold in the market. Experts’ advice for safe consumption. Read the label: While buying the supplement, check that ‘Root Extract’ is written on it. Doctor’s advice: Do not consume any herb for a long time without expert consultation. Purity check: Buy products only from trusted and licensed brands. Avoid leaf powder: At home Avoid making decoction or powder of grown Ashwagandha leaves.