Withania somnifera, more commonly known as ashwagandha, is a popular herb in traditional Ayurvedic medicine systems, and is gaining attention in Western herbal medicine as an important adaptogen. It has been used for centuries to support overall health and well-being, as well as to treat specific health conditions such as stress and anxiety. In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the clinical applications of ashwagandha, and more research is being conducted to understand its potential benefits.
Key actions of ashwagandha
- Adaptogen = Stress modulating: Ashwagandha is known to modulate the HPA axis, which is responsible for regulating the body’s stress responses (8).
- Cognitive enhancement: Animal studies have shown that ashwagandha may have memory-enhancing effects (6).
- Anti-inflammatory: Ashwagandha has been found to have anti-inflammatory effects in both animal and human studies (5,11).
- Antioxidant: Ashwagandha has been shown to have antioxidant effects in both animal and human studies (5,11).
- Neuroprotective effects: Ashwagandha has been found to have neuroprotective effects in both animal and human studies (5,11).
Popular clinical uses of ashwagandha and potential benefits
- Stress adaptation: A clinical study found that an extract of ashwagandha root was effective in reducing stress and anxiety in adults (2).
- Anxiety and depression: A clinical study found that ashwagandha root extract may have potential as a safe and effective adjunct therapy for anxiety and depression (4).
- Treatment of ADHD: Preliminary research suggests that ashwagandha may have potential use in the treatment of ADHD in children (3).
- Osteoarthritis: A clinical study found that ashwagandha root extract may have potential in the treatment of osteoarthritis-related knee pain (10).
Pregnancy and Safety Concerns: While ashwagandha is generally considered safe there is concern with its potential to stimulate uterine contractions, which could harm the foetus in pregnant women. Therefore, it is not recommended for use during pregnancy (1).
Ashwagandha is a promising herb with a variety of potential health benefits. While its use has been well-established in traditional medicine, it is increasingly gaining attention in mainstream medicine.