Research Gist
This study evaluated whether a standardized ashwagandha root extract could improve sleep in both healthy adults and people with insomnia over 8 weeks. Participants who received ashwagandha showed better sleep outcomes than placebo, especially in falling asleep faster, sleeping more efficiently, and improving overall sleep quality. The benefits were stronger in participants with insomnia, where improvements were also seen in morning alertness and anxiety scores. The extract was reported to be well tolerated during the study period.
Key Learnings
- Ashwagandha helped participants fall asleep faster.
- It improved sleep efficiency (more of the time in bed was actually spent sleeping).
- It increased overall sleep quality.
- It reduced night-time wakefulness and supported better sleep continuity.
- The effect was more noticeable in insomnia patients than in healthy volunteers.
- In insomnia patients, it also improved morning mental alertness and anxiety-related symptoms.
- The extract was well tolerated during the 8-week trial.
