Study of Ashwagandha Root Extract to Reduce Stress, Anxiety, and Improve Sleep in Sexual and Gender Minority Adults Aged 18 to 45

What this Trial Is About

Sexual and gender minority adults often face ongoing stress from stigma and discrimination, which can lead to anxiety, mood issues, poor sleep, and reduced quality of life. Researchers are studying whether Ashwagandha root extract can help reduce stress and improve anxiety and sleep quality in this group. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involves 80 adults aged 18 to 45 years who report moderate to high stress levels. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either 300 mg of Ashwagandha root extract capsules twice daily or identical placebo capsules for 8 weeks. The study involves two groups one taking Ashwagandha capsules and the other taking placebo capsules. Assessments will occur at baseline, Week 4, and Week 8 to compare effects over time. During the study, participants will complete questionnaires measuring stress, anxiety, mood, sleep quality, minority stress experiences, and quality of life. Salivary cortisol samples will be collected as a biological stress marker. Safety will be monitored by tracking adverse events throughout the 8-week treatment period. The primary outcome is change in perceived stress, with multiple secondary outcomes assessed to understand broader effects.

Effect of Ashwagandha Root Extract on Stress, Anxiety, and Sleep Quality in Adults Experiencing Minority Stress