The Impacts of Ashwagandha Supplementation on Diurnal Cortisol and Stress Among Women

Female Adversity and Biology: Stress Reduction

The purpose of this project is to better understand the role of ashwagandha on the stress response and wellbeing among healthy, stressed women.

This study will add knowledge about how ashwagandha can impact diurnal cortisol values (at waking, 30 minutes-post waking, and bedtime). This study will also assess the impact of ashwagandha consumption on inflammatory biomarkers and self-reported perceived stress, anxiety, and well-being among females.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Female, ages 18-45
2. No hormonal birth control
3. Identify as having a regular sleep schedule (eg. sleep by 1am and wake by 9am)
4. Identify as having a regular menstrual period between 27-32 days apart on average
5. PSS score of 14 (moderate stress) or greater
6. No expected changes in stress levels over the next 3 months and agree to not initiate any new stress-reduction behaviors before study start or during the study

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Diagnosed major depressive disorder or generalized anxiety disorder in the last 3 months, any liver, kidney, or thyroid disorder/dysfunction/injury, or diabetes
2. Using any medication related to cortisol or HPA function such as corticosteroids, antidepressants, anti-psychotics, CNS-depressants (benzodiazepines, non-benzodiazepine sedatives, barbiturates, anti-convulsants, anesthetics), thyroid medications, diabetic medications, or immunosuppressants
3. Taken any form of ashwagandha within the last 3 months
4. Daily use of alcohol, nicotine, or other substances
5. Who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, breastfeeding, or have had a hysterectomy
6. Abnormal liver function test value(s) at screening