---
title: The Biochemistry of Ashwagandha
description: Ashwagandha's bioactive phytochemicals may support antioxidative stress response, mood, cognitive function, and sleep quality, research suggests.
---

[Evidence-based Wellness Education](https://www.casi.org/articles)

# [The Biochemistry of Ashwagandha](https://www.casi.org/articles/biochemistry-of-ashwagandha)

 Written by [Cory Ambrose, ND, MAT](https://www.casi.org/articles/author/cory-ambrose-nd-mat) | Feb 21, 2023, 5:00:00 AM

Ashwagandha (*Withania somnifera*) is a botanical that has been used for [thousands of years](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34649336/) to support many aspects of human health. Its species name, [somnifera](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34649336/), is Latin for “sleep-inducer.” Ashwagandha has many biochemical actions within the human body, and it is best known as an adaptogen or a botanical that may help parts of the body adapt to stressors. [Evidence suggests](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34649336/) it may also possess biochemical actions to help support a healthy mood, cognitive function, antioxidative stress, and healthy inflammatory response.

The root of ashwagandha contains more than [50 bioactive phytochemicals](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32305638/), including alkaloids, steroidal lactones, withanone, withanolides, somniferine, and withanine. The [biochemical mechanisms work](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32305638/) in part by helping to modulate oxidative stress markers, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, lipid peroxidation (LPO), and glutathione (GSH). It may influence axonal and dendritic outgrowth, helping to promote [neuronal regeneration](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32305638/).

In [animal studies](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32305638/), ashwagandha has been reported to help support a healthy response to stress. It was also observed to help inhibit nerve cells from overfiring and displayed gamma-aminobutyric acid ([GABA)-type activity](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32305638/). Animal studies also reported assessments on the improved effects of ashwagandha and its bioactive constituents (i.e., [glycowithanolides](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32305638/)) for symptoms related to depression.

A recently published meta-analysis by [Cheah and colleagues](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34559859/) explored the relationship between ashwagandha and healthy sleep. Randomized controlled trials involving approximately 400 participants were included in the meta-analysis. Study durations lasted between 6 and 12 weeks. Amounts administered during treatment periods ranged between 120 mg and 600 mg daily. Overall, [parameters](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34559859/) related to sleep quality, daytime mental alertness, and mood were reported to improve after supplementation with ashwagandha. However, more research is necessary, particularly in a clinical setting with more standardized amounts. Additionally, the [authors](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34559859/) cite a lack of consistency among sleep quality indices as a limitation in current studies.

A review article by [Paul and colleagues](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34649336/) published in 2021 provided a comprehensive account of current clinical research related to ashwagandha. The authors highlight studies related to cognitive health, [psychological stress](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34649336/), and other aspects of health. Another clinical study reported improvements in testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels alongside improvements in parameters related to [psychological stress](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34649336/).

Research indicates that ashwagandha may possess phytochemicals that help support brain health and a healthy response to oxidative stress and inflammation. It may also help support certain aspects of sleep quality and mood health.

[View full post](https://www.casi.org/articles/biochemistry-of-ashwagandha)

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