A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Ashwagandha Extract in Stress and Anxiety
Chandrasekhar K, Kapoor J, Anishetty S
Published in Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine
Abstract
Randomized controlled trial demonstrating that ashwagandha root extract safely and effectively improves resistance to stress and thereby improves self-assessed quality of life.
Methodology
Prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study with 64 adults with chronic stress. Participants received 300mg twice daily (600mg total) of high-concentration full-spectrum ashwagandha root extract or placebo for 60 days. Stress assessed using Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28). Serum cortisol, DHEA-S, and other biomarkers measured.
Key Findings
Significant reduction in PSS scores in ashwagandha group vs placebo (p<0.0001) 44% reduction in PSS scores from baseline in treatment group 27.9% reduction in serum cortisol levels (p=0.0006) Improved scores on all GHQ-28 subscales Improved secondary outcomes including anxiety, social dysfunction, and depression scores No serious adverse events reported Well-tolerated with minimal side effects
Conclusions
High-concentration full-spectrum ashwagandha root extract safely and effectively improves resistance toward stress and thereby improves self-assessed quality of life. The significant reduction in serum cortisol levels suggests ashwagandha mechanism involves HPA axis modulation.
Limitations
Relatively small sample size (n=64) Moderate study duration (60 days) - longer trials needed Single-center design Participants not diagnosed with clinical anxiety disorder No follow-up after treatment cessation Did not compare different doses Mostly subjective outcome measures
Supplements Studied
The treated group showed a significant reduction in scores on all stress-assessment scales and a 27.9% reduction in serum cortisol compared with placebo.
Outcomes Measured
Reduced cortisol and stress scores were accompanied by improved self-reported energy and well-being.
Serum cortisol fell 27.9% relative to placebo alongside reductions on every stress-assessment scale.
Serum cortisol was substantially reduced in the ashwagandha group relative to placebo.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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Disclosures
Funding
Supported by Natreon Inc. (manufacturer of KSM-66 ashwagandha)
Conflicts of Interest
Study sponsored by ashwagandha manufacturer. Independent statistical analysis performed.
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