Ashitaba can be taken by anyone as a dietary supplement.  It may be used by those who are suffering from diabetes, gastrointestinal problems and peri-menopausal problems.

Ashitaba consists of a variety of vitamins, minerals, proteins and plant fiber.  It is rich in dietary fiber and may be effective in improving gastrointestinal condition through increased excretion of feces that contain high level of bile acids.  Past researches have identified two different chalcones in ashitaba: Xanthoangelol and 4-Hydroxyderricin.  The two chalcones have exhibited an ability to decrease the rate of acid production in the stomach, decrease the severity of stress related stomach ulcers, and exhibited anti-bacterial action.  Ashitaba may also be very useful for diabetic patients in lowering their blood sugars.  Other possible beneficial uses of ashitaba include treatments of hypertension and cancer in Japan. 

Ashitaba has many traditional therapeutic uses.  It may be used as a treatment for menstrual problems, which involves the removal of stagnation in the uterus and the elevation of blood flow.  Ashitaba may also act as a diuretic with no side effects identified.  It increases not only the libido, but may also help in treating peri-menopause problems.  Ashitaba is also a useful lactagogue that induces the secretion of mother’s milk.  Moreover, the herb is suggested to harmonize the spleen and stomach.

Children can definitely take ashitaba as a dietary supplement for promoting a healthy intestine.

It is not suitable for vegetarians.

Excessive ingestion of ashitaba has no significant pathological impact on the liver and kidney.  No health hazards or side effects are known. However, it should be noted that a few individuals may exhibit a Herxheimer reaction during their first use of ashitaba.  The Herxheimer reaction is an indication of the detoxification process being carried out in the body.  It may cause individuals to have “flu-like” symptoms or rash, which usually lasts for two weeks.  Increased water intake with fresh lemon juice will usually help to alleviate the symptoms.  Furthermore, taking ashitaba in smaller doses allows the body to build up its tolerance so that the eventual desired intake level can be reached.

One of the active components of ashitaba is coumarins, which may increase the time blood needs to clot.  When ashitaba is taken with prescription anti-coagulants and anti-platelets, aspirin, and some herbal products, it could increase the anti-clotting effects.  Do not use ashitaba in conjunction with other blood thinners. 

No, ashitaba is 100% natural and has no interaction with other nutritional supplements.