Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine for a variety of ailments, including mood disorders. In recent years, scientific interest has grown regarding its potential role in supporting mental health, particularly depression. Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and preclinical studies suggest ashwagandha may help reduce symptoms of depression, likely due to its adaptogenic effects and ability to modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which is frequently dysregulated in depression.

Clinical evidence is still emerging, but a few small-scale RCTs have reported that ashwagandha supplementation (typically 300-600 mg/day of root extract) significantly improved depression scores compared to placebo, often in populations with comorbid anxiety or stress. Mechanistically, ashwagandha appears to lower cortisol levels and may influence neurotransmitter systems relevant to mood regulation. Animal studies further support its antidepressant-like effects, showing modulation of serotonin and GABAergic activity.

However, limitations exist: most human trials have been small, short-term, and sometimes included participants with mild symptoms or coexisting anxiety/stress disorders rather than clinical depression alone. While the evidence is promising, more large-scale, high-quality RCTs are needed to definitively establish efficacy and safety for depression. At present, ashwagandha can be considered a potentially helpful adjunct for mood support, but should not replace standard care for moderate or severe depression.

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