# Health risks associated with ashwagandha supplements > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/health-risks-associated-with-ashwagandha-supplements > Updated: 2026-09-18T16:18:28.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. Consumer protection groups and health agencies have raised alarms regarding the health risks associated with ashwagandha supplements. Initially, the organization Foodwatch warned that several brands were marketing the plant for stress and anxiety relief in ways that may violate EU regulations. Experts, including the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), cautioned that uncontrolled long-term use could lead to liver damage and adverse medication interactions, specifically advising children, pregnant women, and those with liver disease to avoid consumption. These warnings were underscored by a severe medical case in the United Kingdom, where a woman suffered acute liver failure and subsequent brain damage following a year of consuming ashwagandha gummies purchased via social media. In response to such incidents, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued guidance advising consumers to exercise caution when purchasing supplements through online marketplaces, noting the difficulty in verifying product origins or identifying counterfeit items. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-18: UK woman suffers brain damage from ashwagandha supplements A UK woman suffered brain damage and acute liver failure linked to ashwagandha supplements, prompting government warnings about the risks of purchasing herbal products from online marketplaces. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/uk-woman-suffers-brain-damage-from-ashwagandha-supplements ### 2026-08-27: Foodwatch warns supplement brands over Ashwagandha health risks Foodwatch has warned supplement brands like ESN and More Nutrition over the marketing of Ashwagandha, citing potential liver damage and risks to pregnant women. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/foodwatch-warns-supplement-brands-over-ashwagandha-health-risks --- Cite as: Health risks associated with ashwagandha supplements. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/health-risks-associated-with-ashwagandha-supplements