Overview
- The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has prohibited ashwagandha leaves and leaf extracts in supplements, nutraceuticals, and certain foods.
- Only the root and its extracts are allowed under Schedule IV of food safety rules, in line with Ministry of AYUSH guidance.
- Officials flagged higher levels of the compound withaferin-A in leaves and cited risks including liver injury, stomach distress, and possible neurotoxic effects.
- State food authorities were told to keep strict watch, pursue legal action against violators, and enforce labels that state which plant part is used.
- Experts stress that root-based products remain permitted and advise buyers to choose standardized root extracts and check labels for clear sourcing.