Ashwagandha Root and Leaf Extract May Have Benefits For Bipolar People

Ashwagandha root and leaf extract is one of the main herbs in the traditional Indian medicine known as Ayurveda. It is gaining popularity in the United States and a recent study suggests that it may help cognitive functioning in people with bipolar disorder.

Participants in the study included 60 individuals with bipolar disorder. Over the course of eight weeks, half of the group took 500 mg of Ashwagandha in addition to their medications while the other half took a placebo.

At the conclusion of the study, the supplement group performed better in auditory-verbal working memory, reaction time, and a measure of social cognition in people with bipolar disorder when compared with the placebo group.

Researchers from Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic University of Pittsburgh Medical Center conducted the study. It was published in the November 2013 issue of the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry.

Previous studies suggest that ashwagandha may help with memory, cognitive function and brain health, increase strength, and help with sexual dysfunctions. The best way to consume ashwagandha is by taking a high quality supplement.