Evidence supporting the use of: Withanolide
For the body system: Thyroid Gland
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Withanolide is a group of naturally occurring steroidal lactones primarily found in the plant Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha). The use of Ashwagandha, and by extension its active compounds like withanolides, has been traditionally associated with adaptogenic and stress-modulating effects. Recent scientific investigations have begun to elucidate its role in thyroid support. Several animal studies and limited human clinical trials suggest that Ashwagandha extracts standardized to withanolides may help normalize thyroid hormone levels, particularly in cases of subclinical hypothyroidism. For example, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in 2018 found that Ashwagandha root extract improved serum TSH, T3, and T4 levels in subjects with subclinical hypothyroidism over an eight-week period. The proposed mechanism relates to Ashwagandha’s ability to modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis, reduce oxidative stress, and support endocrine balance. However, isolated withanolides have not been as extensively studied as whole plant extracts, and most available data focus on Ashwagandha as a whole. While the evidence is promising, it remains preliminary, and further high-quality, large-scale human trials are necessary to confirm efficacy and safety for thyroid support.
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