As more research continues to come out on functional mushrooms, it’s important to keep up to date with what they are finding and what their conclusions are. In this blog post we are going to look at a few studies done on Ashwagandha.
First Study: Ashwagandha in brain disorders: A review of recent developments
Abstract:
Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is a plant native to India, Nepal, China, and Yemen, with roots containing active compounds like withanolides, alkaloids, and sitoindosides. These compounds are traditionally used to treat various brain disorders. This review focuses on exploring the neuroactive properties of Ashwagandha, examining pharmacological studies, available products, its mechanism of action, and recent patents related to its neuroprotective effects.
Conclusion:
The review concludes that recent studies highlight Ashwagandha’s significant potential as a neuroprotective agent for various brain disorders, supported by preclinical studies, clinical trials, and patents. However, the unclear understanding of the exact mechanisms behind its neuroprotective effects calls for further research to establish it as a promising drug candidate.
Effect of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract on sleep: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Abstract:
A comprehensive search was conducted in CENTRAL, MEDLINE, SCOPUS, Google Scholar, World Health Organization Trials Portal, ClinicalTrials.gov, Clinical Trial Registry of India, and AYUSH Research Portal for relevant trials. Randomized controlled trials that examined the effect of Ashwagandha extract versus placebo on sleep in human participants aged 18 and above were considered. Two authors independently reviewed all trials and extracted relevant data. The primary outcomes were sleep quantity and quality, while the secondary outcomes included mental alertness upon waking, anxiety levels, and quality of life.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Ashwagandha extract demonstrates a beneficial effect on improving sleep in adults, particularly in those diagnosed with insomnia, when administered at a dosage of 600 mg/day or more for at least 8 weeks. Additionally, it was shown to improve mental alertness upon waking and reduce anxiety levels. However, there was no significant impact on quality of life, and no serious side effects were reported. While the findings are promising, further research on the long-term safety of Ashwagandha extract is needed to assess its suitability for extended use.
Final Thoughts
Both of these studies found some impressive results. With the first study concluding that Ashwagandha has significant potential as a neuroprotective agent for various brain disorders and the second study concluding that it helps individuals sleep that are faced with insomnia. While both studies show very promising results, they both urged the need for further research into Ashwagandha.
At Organic Mushrooms we recognize the potential Ashwagandha has to promote overall wellness and well-being, we would like to invite you to check out our Ashwagandha shop page.