This study investigates the effect of a standardized Withania somnifera extract(Ashwagandha) on stress-related physiological and psychological parameters in chronically stressed adults. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study, 130 participants were treated with either ashwagandha (125 mg or 250 mg daily) or a placebo for 60 days.
The results show a significant reduction in stress and anxiety levels, measured using the modified Hamilton Anxiety Scale (mHAM-A). In addition, ashwagandha supplementation led to a significant reduction in cortisol levels, C-reactive protein (CRP) and blood pressure. At the same time, the levels of dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS), a hormone associated with stress resistance, increased.
Conclusion: Ashwagandha could be an effective, natural alternative for coping with stress. The results suggest that taking this plant extract not only reduces subjective stress, but also brings about measurable improvements in physiological stress markers.
Background:
Chronic stress is a widespread health problem associated with a variety of negative physiological and psychological effects. It leads to elevated cortisol levels, impaired glucose and lipid metabolism, immunosuppression and increased cardiovascular burden. Traditionally, Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) has been used as an adaptogen to increase stress resistance and promote overall health. This study investigates the efficacy of a standardized ashwagandha extract (WSE) in reducing stress-related markers in a clinical trial.
Methodology:
- Study design: Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study over 60 days.
- Participants: 130 adults (18-60 years) with chronic stress, defined by a modified Hamilton Anxiety Scale (mHAM-A) of 24 to 42.
- Intervention:
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- Group 1: 125 mg ashwagandha once daily.
- Group 2: 125 mg ashwagandha twice daily.
- Group 3: 250 mg ashwagandha twice daily.
- Control group: placebo.
- Primary endpoints: Stress assessment based on mHAM-A, serum cortisol level, C-reactive protein (CRP), DHEAS, blood pressure, pulse rate.
Results:
Reduction of stress and anxiety:
- The mean mHAM-A values decreased in the 125 mg group by 39,5 % after 30 days and by 62,2 % after 60 days.
- Participants taking 250 mg twice a day showed the greatest reduction in stress symptoms.
- The placebo group showed no significant change.
Reduction of cortisol and CRP levels:
- Cortisol levels were reduced in the 125 mg group by 14.5 %in the 250 mg group by 30.5 %.
- CRP values, a marker for systemic inflammation, were reduced by 31,6 % in the 125 mg group and by 35,2 % in the 250 mg group.
Increase in DHEAS:
- DHEAS levels, which are associated with stress resistance, increased in the 125 mg group by 13.2 % and in the 250 mg group by 32.5 %.
Improvement in blood pressure and pulse rate:
- Systolic blood pressure decreased by up to 3.3 mmHgdiastolic blood pressure by up to 6.4 mmHg.
- The pulse rate was reduced in the highest dosage group by 6,6 %.
Additional metabolic benefits:
- Reduction of LDL cholesterol by up to 17.4 % in the highest in the highest dosage.
- Increase in HDL cholesterol by 17.3 % ..
- Reduction of the fasting blood glucose level by up to 6.1.
Safety and compatibility:
- No serious side effects were reported.
- The supplementation was well tolerated by all participants.
Discussion:
The study shows that ashwagandha at a dose of 125-250 mg per day can bring about significant physiological and psychological improvements in chronically stressed individuals. The strongest effect was observed at the highest dosage.
Possible mechanisms for the observed effects are:
- Modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA axis): Ashwagandha could regulate cortisol production and thus improve the negative feedback of the stress system.
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties: Lowering CRP may indicate a reduction in systemic inflammation.
- Neuroprotective effects: The increased DHEAS concentration could represent a protective mechanism against chronic stress.
- Cardiovascular benefits: Lowering blood pressure and cholesterol shows that ashwagandha could potentially help prevent stress-related cardiovascular disease.
Conclusion:
This study provides strong evidence that ashwagandha may be an effective and safe option for reducing chronic stress and its physiological effects. The positive effects on cortisol, CRP, DHEAS and blood pressure suggest that ashwagandha not only alleviates subjective stress symptoms, but may also have long-term health benefits. Future studies should focus on long-term effects and optimal dosing strategies.