# A clinical assessment of the therapeutic effects of Ashwagandha root extract on cognitive performance, sleep, and fatigue in children aged 6–12 years

## TL;DR

This study found that Ashwagandha root extract improved cognitive performance and sleep in children aged 6–12 years over an 8-week period.

## Contribution

The first clinical trial to assess Ashwagandha's effects on cognitive performance, sleep, and fatigue in children.

## Key findings

- ARE supplementation significantly improved speed of information processing and sleep quality in children.
- Improvements were observed in memory, task accuracy, and reaction time with no significant adverse events.

## Abstract

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera L.Dunal) is an adaptogenic herb known to reduce stress and enhance well-being in adults.

This randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled, parallel-group trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of standardized Ashwagandha root extract (ARE) in children with parent-reported concerns related to attention, concentration, or memory. Eight-five healthy children aged 6-12 years were randomized to receive ARE gummies (n = 42; 150 mg twice daily) or identical placebo gummies (n = 43) for 8 weeks. Primary outcomes included attention, memory, and executive function assessed using the Computerized Mental Performance Assessment System (COMPASS). Secondary outcomes included overall functioning and well-being assessed using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function, Second Edition (BRIEF2 Parent version), Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children (SDSC), and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System - Fatigue Scale. Safety was evaluated based on self-reported adverse events.

Among 73 participants who completed the study (ARE, n = 39; placebo, n = 34), ARE supplementation significantly improved speed of information processing (p = 0.040). Improvements were also observed in delayed word recall (p = 0.038, d = 0.59), Stroop task accuracy (p = 0.021, d = 0.61), Corsi block span (p = 0.013, d = 0.66), and choice reaction time accuracy (p = 0.005, d = 0.75). Additionally, SDSC scores improved, indicating better parent-reported sleep quality (p = 0.035). No significant adverse events were reported.

These findings suggest that an eight-week supplementation with ARE is well tolerated and may enhance cognitive performance and sleep quality in children.

The trial was prospectively registered with the Clinical Trials Registry of India (CTRI/2021/10/037126; dated 06/10/2021; CTRI) and the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (Reg. No.: ACTRN12621000656831; ANZCTR–Registration).