Body Weight Management in Adults Under Chronic Stress Through Treatment With Ashwagandha Root Extract

Abstract

Chronic stress has been associated with a number of illnesses, including obesity. Ashwagandha is a well-known adaptogen and known for reducing stress and anxiety in humans. The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a standardized root extract of Ashwagandha through a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. A total of 52 subjects under chronic stress received either Ashwagandha (300 mg) or placebo twice daily. Primary efficacy measures were Perceived Stress Scale and Food Cravings Questionnaire. Secondary efficacy measures were Oxford Happiness Questionnaire, Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire, serum cortisol, body weight, and body mass index. Each subject was assessed at the start and at 4 and 8 weeks. The treatment with Ashwagandha resulted in significant improvements in primary and secondary measures. Also, the extract was found to be safe and tolerable. The outcome of this study suggests that Ashwagandha root extract can be used for body weight management in adults under chronic stress.

Adaptogenic and Anxiolytic Effects of Ashwagandha Root Extract in Healthy Adults: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Clinical Study

“…Further, the treatment with Ashwagandha significantly restored the stress-induced alterations in plasma cortisol, blood glucose, and triglyceride levels [26]. Similar effects of Ashwagandha root extract were also seen in stressed and overweight adults [17].…”

“…In overweight and obese adults with chronic stress, Ashwagandha root extract has been reported to improve the mental well-being, eating behaviors and reduce stress through its adaptogenic properties along with maintaining the normal endocrinological balance [17]. In addition, it was also reported to maintain an adequate range of testosterone, enhancing cognitive abilities in people with mild cognitive impairment, and boosting cardiorespiratory endurance [18][19][20].…”

The Effects of Adaptogens on the Physical and Psychological Symptoms of Chronic Stress

“…However, there were no statistically significant positive changes from baseline in blood pressure, respiratory rate, and pulse rate (Choudhary et al, 2016).…”

“…KSM-66 Ashwagandha root was effective in decreasing various psychological and physical symptoms of chronic stress (Choudhary, Bhattacharyya, & Joshi, 2016). There were statistically significant changes from baseline to four and eight weeks in primary outcome measures such as various questionnaire scores, serum cortisol levels, body weight, and body mass index (BMI).…”

Efficacy and Tolerability of Ashwagandha Root Extract in the Elderly for Improvement of General Well-being and Sleep: A Prospective, Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Study

“…Several clinical studies have proven the efficacy, tolerability, and safety of Ashwagandha's use in various contexts. The root extract of Ashwagandha was found effective in enhancing cardiorespiratory endurance, improving muscle strength and recovery, and effective in general bodyweight management when compared to the respective placebo [24][25][26]. Apart from the contribution in general well-being, W. somnifera root extract also helps in improving sexual function in both men and women [6,27].…”