2019

Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha Root Extract in Insomnia and Anxiety

Langade D, Kanchi S, Salve J, Debnath K, Ambegaokar D

Published in Cureus

Abstract

Randomized controlled trial showing ashwagandha root extract improves sleep quality and reduces anxiety in adults with insomnia.

Methodology

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with insomnia and non-insomnia cohorts over 10 weeks.

Key Findings

In 60 adults (40 with insomnia, 20 healthy controls), ashwagandha root extract 300 mg twice daily for 10 weeks improved sleep onset latency, total sleep time and sleep efficiency versus placebo, with the effect concentrated in the insomnia subgroup. Anxiety (HAM-A) scores and sleep quality ratings also improved; one participant withdrew for a mild adverse event.

Conclusions

Ashwagandha 600 mg/day meaningfully improves sleep parameters and anxiety in adults with insomnia over 10 weeks.

Limitations

Small sample split across insomnia and non-insomnia groups, single centre, largely subjective sleep measures alongside limited actigraphy, and manufacturer-linked authorship.