Studies Prove This Root Helps You Sleep and Manage Stress

Roots and powder of Ashwagandha Eskymaks/Shutterstock

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a powerful adaptogenic herb, which means it helps your body adapt to stress¹ by balancing your immune system, metabolism and hormonal systems. It is known as a multipurpose herb and was used in ancient Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine.² The plant is native to India and a member of the Solanaceae family, along with eggplant and tomato.³

A 2020 study tested ashwagandha for its ability to promote sleep. Based on the results, the researchers believe the herb could be an alternative treatment for insomnia.⁴ They gathered 80 participants, 40 of whom were healthy individuals without a sleep disorder and 40 who had a known diagnosis of insomnia.

Consider Ashwagandha to Improve Your Sleep Quality

Each group was further split into two groups: one intervention and one control group. The intervention group received ashwagandha and the control group received a placebo. The participants took the supplements for eight weeks during which assessments were done to evaluate sleep parameters, sleep quality and anxiety.