Ashwagandha for Insomnia

This trial tests whether a lower-dosage Ashwagandha supplement can improve sleep. Participants will take either the supplement or a placebo daily for 28 days, with sleep monitored using an Oura ring. The goal is to determine if the supplement reduces time spent awake at night and enhances overall sleep quality. Individuals with mild sleep disturbances who can maintain a consistent sleep routine may be suitable for this study. As an unphased trial, it provides participants the chance to contribute to early research on enhancing sleep quality with natural supplements.

Yes, you will need to stop taking any sleep-promoting or sleep-disrupting medications or supplements, as well as certain other medications like insulin, psychotropics, and high-risk medications. The trial requires participants to refrain from using these during the study.

Research has shown that Ashwagandha is usually safe for use up to three months, with most studies reporting only minor side effects, such as an upset stomach. More information is needed to determine its safety for longer periods, especially in larger amounts. Most research agrees that Ashwagandha can help improve sleep, but additional studies could provide a clearer picture of its safety.¹²³⁴⁵

Unlike standard treatments for insomnia, which often include medications like benzodiazepines or non-benzodiazepine sleep aids, Ashwagandha offers a natural alternative derived from a plant. Researchers are excited about this treatment because it uses a sustained-release, low-dosage formulation that may provide a gentler approach to improving sleep quality without the side effects commonly associated with conventional sleep medications. Additionally, Ashwagandha is believed to work by reducing stress and anxiety, which are often underlying causes of insomnia, offering a holistic approach to treatment. This makes it a promising option for those looking to address the root causes of their sleep issues.

Studies have shown that Ashwagandha can improve sleep quality. For instance, it helps those who often wake up tired by enhancing their sleep. Research also indicates that Ashwagandha can help people fall asleep faster and improve overall sleep quality. In this trial, participants will receive either a sustained-release Ashwagandha supplement or a placebo. Previous studies found that people taking Ashwagandha slept better and longer compared to those taking a placebo, which contains no active ingredients. These findings suggest that Ashwagandha might be helpful for sleep problems like insomnia.³⁴⁶⁷⁸