Herbal

Ashwagandha

Also known as: Withania somnifera, Indian ginseng, Winter cherry, Ashwagandha root extract, Withaferin A

Overview

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), also known as Indian ginseng, is an adaptogenic herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for its neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. Clinical and preclinical studies suggest that Ashwagandha may help reduce stress and anxiety, with a 2022 meta-analysis of 12 randomized controlled trials (n=1,002) showing a significant reduction in stress and anxiety scores with supplementation [1]. It has demonstrated neuroprotective effects by protecting brain-derived cells against oxidative stress and promoting neuronal differentiation in vitro [3]. Additionally, Ashwagandha exhibits anti-arthritic potential, supported by analysis of 77 registered clinical trials in India, many of which are placebo-controlled and focused on inflammatory joint conditions [2]. Immunomodulatory effects include activation of CD4+ T cells and natural killer (NK) cells after short-term use [4]. The bioactive compound withaferin A shows promising preclinical anti-cancer activity, particularly in B-cell lymphoma, via inhibition of NF-κB signaling and induction of oxidative stress in tumor cells [5][6].

Dosage Guide

Therapeutic Doses

For treatment of specific conditions

Stress and anxiety240-600 mg/day of standardized root extract (withanolides 5–10%)Typically divided into 1–2 doses; effects observed over 6–12 weeks
Osteoarthritis and joint pain250-500 mg twice daily of root extractUsed in clinical trials for anti-inflammatory effects
Immunomodulation5 mL (approx. 300-500 mg extract) twice dailyBased on short-term immune activation study using liquid root extract

Special Forms

Alternative forms for specific needs

Standardized root extract (KSM-66)

Most studied form; high concentration of withanolides, used for stress, cognition, and vitality

Standardized root extract (Sensoril)

Lower dose required; used in stress and metabolic health studies

Withaferin A isolate

Experimental form; used in preclinical cancer research, not widely available in supplements

Clinical Notes

  • Generally well-tolerated, but high doses may cause gastrointestinal upset or drowsiness
  • Potential interaction with immunosuppressants, sedatives, thyroid hormones, and antidiabetic drugs
  • Avoid in pregnancy due to possible uterine stimulation; limited safety data
  • Monitor thyroid function in individuals with thyroid disorders as Ashwagandha may increase T4 levels
  • Long-term safety beyond 3 months not well established in clinical trials

Research

Key FindingsPubMed
1

Meta-analysis shows Ashwagandha significantly reduces anxiety and stress in adults

Does Ashwagandha supplementation have a beneficial effect on the management of anxiety and stress? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
Phytotherapy research : PTR2022
2

Analysis of 77 clinical trials supports anti-arthritic potential of Ashwagandha

Analysis of Clinical Trial Registry of India for Evidence of Anti-Arthritic Properties of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha).
Alternative therapies in health and medicine2021
3

Withaferin A inhibits B-cell lymphoma growth and NF-κB signaling in preclinical models

Anti-cancer activity of withaferin A in B-cell lymphoma.
Cancer biology & therapy2015
4

Ashwagandha extract activates CD4+ T cells and NK cells in humans after 96 hours

In vivo effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract on the activation of lymphocytes.
Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.)2009
5

Leaf extracts protect neural cells from oxidative stress and induce differentiation

Combinations of Ashwagandha leaf extracts protect brain-derived cells against oxidative stress and induce differentiation.
PloS one2015
6

Withaferin A is a key bioactive compound with preclinical anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects

Withaferin A: From ayurvedic folk medicine to preclinical anti-cancer drug.
Biochemical pharmacology2020
7

Review highlights neuropharmacological benefits of Ashwagandha in neurodegenerative diseases

Neuropharmacological Properties of Withania somnifera - Indian Ginseng: An Overview on Experimental Evidence with Emphasis on Clinical Trials and Patents.
Recent patents on CNS drug discovery2016

Products Containing Ashwagandha(2 reports)