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SleepCited

Ashwagandha for Anxiety-Related Sleep Problems

B

Based on 3 studies (2 meta-analyses). 3/3 studies show positive effects.

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B

The Bottom Line

Ashwagandha may help improve sleep that is disrupted by anxiety, with consistent positive findings from multiple reviews, though more research would strengthen the evidence.

  • All 3 studies, including 2 meta-analyses, report positive effects
  • Ashwagandha appears to work through GABA-modulating pathways that reduce anxiety
  • Research spans systematic reviews and meta-analyses of existing clinical evidence
  • Grade B evidence suggests good but not yet conclusive support

Key Study Findings

Meta-Analysis
Medicinal herbs for the treatment of anxiety: A systematic review and network meta-analysis.
Dose: Various medicinal herbs: Silexan, Kava, Ginkgo biloba, Withania somnifera, Galphimia glauca, Passion vs: Placebo Effect: Silexan MD -3.84 (95% CrI -6.31 to -1.34); Kava MD -2.46 (95% CrI -4.47 to -0.32); Ginkgo biloba MD None
Review
Medicinal Plants for Insomnia Related to Anxiety: An Updated Review.
Dose: None vs: Placebo Effect: None None

Key Statistics

3

Studies

--

Participants

Positive

B

Grade

Referenced Papers

Dosage & Usage

mg = milligrams · mcg = micrograms (1,000× smaller) · IU = International Units

Commonly Used Dosages

sleep:
300-600 mg KSM-66 or Sensoril, before bed

Upper limit: Not established; studied up to 1,200 mg/day

Dosages Studied in Research

Dosage Duration Effect N
Various medicinal herbs: Silexan, Kava, Ginkgo biloba, Withania somnifera, Galphimia glauca, Passion -- Positive --
None -- Positive --

Best taken: 1-2 hours before bed

Safety & Side Effects

Reported Side Effects

  • Drowsiness
  • GI upset
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache

Known Interactions

  • Thyroid medications — ashwagandha may increase thyroid hormone levels
  • Immunosuppressants — ashwagandha may stimulate immune activity
  • Sedatives — potential additive drowsiness
  • Blood sugar medications — may lower blood glucose

Tolerable upper intake: Not established; studied up to 1,200 mg/day

Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Ashwagandha help with Anxiety-Related Sleep Problems?
Based on 3 studies with 0 participants, there is moderate evidence from clinical studies that Ashwagandha may support Anxiety-Related Sleep Problems management. Our evidence grade is B (Good Evidence).
How much Ashwagandha should I take for Anxiety-Related Sleep Problems?
Studies have used various dosages. A commonly studied range is 300-600 mg KSM-66 or Sensoril, before bed. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.
Are there side effects of Ashwagandha?
Reported side effects may include Drowsiness, GI upset, Diarrhea, Headache. Most side effects are mild and dose-dependent. Consult your doctor if you experience any adverse reactions.
How strong is the evidence for Ashwagandha and Anxiety-Related Sleep Problems?
We rate the evidence as Grade B (Good Evidence). This rating is based on 3 peer-reviewed studies with 0 total participants. The overall direction of effect is positive.

Related Evidence

Ashwagandha for other conditions

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.