Abstract Summary
Objective: This study investigates the effects of KM 66 Ashwagandha, a potent extract known for its adaptogenic properties, on stress reduction, sleep quality, and cognitive performance in adults experiencing moderate stress levels.
Context: Ashwagandha, an ancient herb used in Ayurvedic medicine, has gained popularity for its ability to reduce stress and improve overall well-being. KM 66, a high-potency form of Ashwagandha, has shown promise in recent research for its ability to enhance these benefits. This study aims to examine how different dosages of KM 66 Ashwagandha affect the body’s response to stress, sleep quality, and cognitive functions like memory and focus.
Methods Used
Approach: A 10-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted with 100 participants aged 18-50, all of whom reported moderate stress levels and symptoms related to poor sleep and cognitive decline. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups:
High-dose KM 66 Ashwagandha (600 mg/day)
Low-dose KM 66 Ashwagandha (300 mg/day)
Placebo group (no active ingredients)
Participants were asked to maintain their normal daily routines and diets during the study period.
Data Collection: Primary outcomes included:
Stress reduction, measured by the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS)
Sleep quality, assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI)
Cognitive performance, measured through the Stroop Test (for attention) and the Wechsler Memory Scale (for memory)
Secondary outcomes included self-reported improvements in mood, anxiety levels, and overall health through weekly questionnaires. Blood tests were also taken at baseline and post-intervention to evaluate cortisol levels, a marker of stress.
Researchers' Summary of Findings
Impact on Health: The high-dose KM 66 Ashwagandha group demonstrated a significant reduction in perceived stress (PSS score reduced by 35%) and a marked improvement in sleep quality (PSQI score reduced by 30%) compared to the placebo group. Cognitive performance also improved, with participants showing a 25% improvement in memory recall and a 15% improvement in attention scores. The low-dose KM 66 group showed moderate improvements in stress reduction (15%) and sleep quality (10%), but the cognitive benefits were less pronounced.
Blood tests indicated a significant reduction in cortisol levels in both the high-dose and low-dose groups compared to the placebo. No major adverse effects were reported, suggesting that KM 66 Ashwagandha is well-tolerated at both doses.
Health Implications: The findings suggest that KM 66 Ashwagandha can significantly reduce stress, improve sleep quality, and enhance cognitive function in adults experiencing moderate stress levels. The higher dose (600 mg/day) was more effective, but both doses produced beneficial effects without any notable side effects. These results indicate that KM 66 Ashwagandha could be a valuable supplement for stress management, sleep improvement, and cognitive health, particularly for those in high-stress environments or with sleep difficulties.
DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2024.105679
