Clinical Evidence for the Use of Ashwagandha, <i>Withania somnifera</i>

Ashwagandha, Withania somnifera , has been revered in Ayurvedic medicine for millennia and is considered a Rasayana herb, promoting both mental and physical health. Research has demonstrated an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect for ashwagandha, as well as an antistress effect. This article reviews clinical evidence for the use of ashwagandha, including in sports medicine, male and female health, stress adaptation, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and insomnia. Safety outcomes are also discussed, with the herbal extract generally shown to be well tolerated in clinical trials.