Darcy asked
I take ashwagandha nearly every day. Is it safe to take Benadryl once in awhile with it?
Answer
There is no known drug interaction between ashwagandha and Benadryl. They are considered safe to take together.
What Is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is a herbal medicine that has been shown to have a number of medicinal properties including analgesic, anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been used for a number of different indications including:
- Rheumatism
- Anxiety
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Fatigue
- Weakened immune system
While there have been a lack of studies to confirm the efficacy of ashwagandha for most of the conditions listed above, it does have much positive evidence for the treatment of stress. One study found that an extract of ashwagandha root safely and effectively improved stress levels and improved self-assessed quality of life.
What Is Benadryl?
Benadryl is a "first-generation" antihistamine used to treat allergic reactions, and it is also commonly used as a sleep aid for patients who are having difficulty falling asleep. Benadryl is generally well tolerated but has significant sedative effects, which is why it is a common ingredient in sleep aids. It can also cause:
- Constipation
- Urinary retention
- Blurred vision
