Abstract Summary
Objective: This study investigates the potential side effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) supplementation on mental health, specifically its impact on anxiety, cognitive function, and mental clarity in individuals with moderate to high stress.
Context: Ashwagandha, a popular adaptogen in Ayurvedic medicine, is renowned for its stress-reducing properties. However, its effects on mental health, particularly on cognitive function and anxiety, require further exploration. This study focuses on both the beneficial and potential adverse side effects related to mental health outcomes.
Methods Used
Approach: A 60-day double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted involving 100 adults (aged 25-55) who reported moderate to high levels of stress. Participants were assigned to receive either 300 mg of standardized Ashwagandha root extract twice daily or a placebo. Mental health outcomes were assessed through anxiety, cognitive function, and mental clarity assessments at baseline, 30 days, and 60 days.
Data Collection: Anxiety was measured using the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), while cognitive function was evaluated through the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Mental clarity and overall well-being were also assessed using self-reported questionnaires.
Researchers' Summary of Findings
Impact on Mental Health: The Ashwagandha group experienced a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms, with a 40% average decrease in BAI scores compared to a 12% reduction in the placebo group. However, some participants in the Ashwagandha group reported feelings of excessive drowsiness and mild confusion, particularly within the first two weeks of supplementation.
In terms of cognitive function, participants who received Ashwagandha showed a slight improvement in MoCA scores. However, a subset of participants (10%) reported difficulty with focus and short-term memory, potentially indicating a mild cognitive side effect in certain individuals.
Health Implications: While Ashwagandha shows promise in reducing anxiety and improving cognitive function, a minority of participants reported mental side effects such as drowsiness, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. These findings suggest that while Ashwagandha can be an effective tool in stress management, it may have mild adverse effects on mental clarity and focus in some users, warranting caution in its use, especially in higher doses.
DOI: 10.1016/j.mhealth.2024.654322
