In brief

The Dutch proposal exempts ashwagandha root from the prohibition envisaged for other plant parts, while requiring dedicated warnings. The text remains part of an ongoing national legislative process.

The draft notified by the Netherlands

Plant-part identity is central to the Dutch proposal on ashwagandha. Notified on 4 September through the European Commission’s TRIS system, the draft introduces restrictions on selected substances and botanical preparations. The procedural standstill period ends on 7 December 2026, placing the proposed provisions within a legislative process that is still open.

Root and other plant parts

For Withania somnifera, the draft exempts the root from the prohibition envisaged for other plant parts and assigns it specific labelling warnings. This is a substantive distinction for companies sourcing extracts or developing formulations. Botanical identity, plant part and supplier documentation need to correspond to the preparation actually placed on the market.

Checks across destination markets

Products distributed across several countries require assessment against each destination’s rules. The TRIS notification allows the proposal to be tracked, while final wording and commencement remain to be established. The document has a national scope and does not justify describing ashwagandha as generally prohibited throughout the European Union.

Why it matters

For botanical ingredients, the plant part used is central to regulatory assessment, alongside species identity and preparation characteristics.

Evidence limit

This is a national draft notified through TRIS. It establishes neither a general European ban nor that the proposed provisions are already in force.

Editorial note. This content is intended for industry professionals. It does not constitute medical advice, therapeutic guidance or regulatory advice. Read our editorial method.

Read the original source · European Commission · TRIS 2026/0486/NL