Ashwagandha is a remarkable herb for stress and anxiety. Emerging research is suggesting that it might also be valuable for cognition. This new study put both to the test.
This new study wanted to see if ashwagandha could help healthy, young people by improving their cognitive function and mood. The double-blind study gave either ashwagandha extract or a placebo to 59 people who were between the ages of 18 and 60.
After 30 days, ashwagandha improved tests that measured memory, attention, vigilance and executive function. It also improved scores on tests of fatigue and tension.
Ashwagandha accomplished all of this safely. It either had no effect or, when it had an effect, improved clinical blood panels. No one taking ashwagandha had to quit the study, and side effects were no different in frequency or severity than the placebo group.
This study adds to the growing evidence that ashwagandha can safely improve cognition and mood.
Nutrients. 2024;16(12):1813.