Effects of Acute Ashwagandha Ingestion on Cognitive Function

Performed at Texas A&M University

A double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study at Texas A&M University was conducted to examine the effect of supplementation with ashwagandha extract on executive function (i.e., mental processes that enable us to plan, focus attention, remember instructions, and juggle multiple tasks successfully). Thirteen healthy male and female subjects were randomly assigned to consume 400 mg of NooGandha® or a placebo. Subjects completed four cognitive function tests and then ingested a capsule of NooGandha® ashwagandha extract or placebo with 8 ounces of water. Participants repeated cognitive function tests after ingestion of the supplement. After 7 days, the participants repeated the experiment, alternating with the treatment they previously did not get (NooGandha® or placebo).

Study Results:

The results showed that compared to placebo, supplementation with a single 400 mg dose of NooGandha®:

  • Significantly increased short-term/working memory.
  • Increased sustained attention (maintained reaction times and prevention of mental fatigue).
  • Increased response times (shows less metal fatigue).

Xing D, Yoo C, Gonzalez D, Jenkins V, Nottingham K, Dickerson B, Leonard M, Ko J, Faries M, Kephart W, Purpura M, Jäger R, Sowinski R, Rasmussen CJ, Kreider RB. Effects of Acute Ashwagandha Ingestion on Cognitive Function. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Sep 20;19(19):11852. doi: 10.3390/ijerph191911852. PMID: 36231152; PMCID: PMC9565281.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9565281