BT explainer | What is ashwagandha, why has India banned it?

 

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has banned the use of ashwagandha leaves and their extracts due to safety concerns flagged by the Ayush Ministry. The FSSAI said that only the shrub's roots are permitted for use in wellness supplements and has directed states to act against violations, LiveMint reported. 

The move is likely to impact top companies offering ashwagandha products like Himalaya Wellness, Dabur India, Patanjali Ayurveda, Baidyanath, and Zandu (Emami).

In an April 16 order to state authorities, the FSSAI ordered "strict vigilance" and legal action against any food business operators (FBOs) found using unauthorised leaf-based ingredients. Manufacturers have been directed to clearly declare the specific plant parts used in the product on its labelling. 

“It has been brought to the notice of FSSAI that cer­tain man­u­fac­tur­ers of these products are using ash­wagandha leaves and its extracts in their products. In this regard, it is cla­ri­fied that the use of ash­wagandha leaves in crude or extract or any other form is not per­mit­ted under the said reg­u­la­tions,” FSSAI said. 

What is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha is a small evergreen shrub used for more than 3,000 years in Ayurvedic medicine. Its root extract can reduce cortisol, enhance sleep quality, and potentially improve muscle recovery and male fertility. 

Why has India banned it? 

India has not banned root-based Ashwagandha, but restricted the usage of ashwagandha leaves in supplements due to a lack of safety data. Moreover, traditional Ayurveda texts only endorse using the root of the plant for internal consumption.

According to recent scientific studies, high concentrations of reactive compounds, especially withaferin-A, were found in ashwagandha leaves that may pose serious health risks such as liver damage. 

Who should avoid ashwagandha?

Doctors generally advise patients to avoid consuming it during pregnancy as it is known to be historically linked to spontaneous abortion. Those with autoimmune diseases or thyroid issues should also avoid ashwagandha. 

Ashwagandha can also interact with drugs such as sedatives, immunosuppressants, and medications for diabetes, high BP or thyroid issues. Some mild side effects include upset stomach, nausea, diarrhoea, and drowsiness. 

Where is ashwagandha cultivated in India? 

It is primarily grown in dry, subtropical regions across states like Mad­hya Pra­desh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maha­rashtra, Uttar Pra­desh, Pun­jab, and Hary­ana, with nearly 10,780 hectares under cultivation. Of this, Madhya Pradesh has more than 5,000 hectares dedicated to the crop. 

How is ashwagandha sold outside India? 

Ashwagandha has seen a rise in popularity overseas, particularly in North America and Europe. It is sold as gummies, capsules, tea blends, and fortified beverages in these countries. 

As of April and May 2026, there is a significant regulatory shift regarding Ashwagandha in India. To be clear: India has not banned Ashwagandha entirely. Instead, the government has banned the use of Ashwagandha leaves, while the sale and use of Ashwagandha roots remain legal and approved.

Here is the breakdown of what is happening and why the Ministry of Ayush and the FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) took this step.

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The "Ban" Explained: Root vs. Leaf

On April 15 and 16, 2026, the Ministry of Ayush and the FSSAI issued strict directives prohibiting the use of Ashwagandha leaves in:

• Ayurvedic drugs and products.

• Health supplements and nutraceuticals.

• Functional foods and special dietary products.

What is still legal: Products made exclusively from Ashwagandha roots are fully permitted, provided they follow standard safety and labeling guidelines.

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Why has the Leaf been banned?

The government's decision is based on three primary concerns:

1. Safety and Toxicity (Withaferin-A)

Scientific reviews, including a 2024 safety dossier, found that Ashwagandha leaves contain a much higher concentration of a compound called Withaferin-A compared to the roots. While bioactive, high levels of Withaferin-A are linked to:

• Hepatotoxicity: Potential liver injury or elevated liver enzymes.

• Gastrointestinal Distress: Nausea and severe irritation.

• Cytotoxicity: At high concentrations, it can be toxic to cells, unlike the root which has a wider safety margin.

2. Lack of Traditional Precedent

In classical Ayurveda (Siddha and Unani systems), the root is the part traditionally recognized for its adaptogenic and rejuvenating properties. The Ministry of Ayush noted that there is no "substantial evidence" or historical precedent in ancient texts for consuming the leaves.

3. Prevention of Adulteration

Ashwagandha leaves are significantly cheaper than roots. Regulators found that some manufacturers were using leaves as "low-cost fillers" to artificially spike the "withanolide" (active ingredient) count on labels. By banning the leaf, the government aims to ensure consumers are getting the high-quality, root-based medicine they expect.

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Global Context

This move also helps protect India’s reputation as a global supplier. Several countries (including the UK and parts of Europe) have recently raised safety alerts regarding Ashwagandha-linked liver injury. By enforcing a "root-only" standard at the source, India aims to mitigate these safety concerns and prevent a total ban on the herb in international markets.

What should consumers look for?

If you use Ashwagandha, check your product labels for these details:

• Plant Part: Ensure it explicitly states "Root Extract" or "Root Powder."

• Transparency: Avoid products that simply say "Ashwagandha Extract" without specifying the part used.

• FSSAI Compliance: Look for the FSSAI logo and license number, as new regulations require stricter enforcement of these standards.

Are you currently using any Ashwagandha supplements, or were you looking to start for a specific reason?

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