HerbsAshwagandha

Ashwagandha root extract improves cognitive performance and sleep quality in children aged 6-12 years

An 8-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 85 children (73 completers) found that Ashwagandha root extract (ARE) gummies (150 mg twice daily) significantly improved speed of information processing, delayed word recall, Stroop task accuracy, Corsi block span, and choice reaction time accuracy compared to placebo. Parent-reported sleep quality also improved on the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children (SDSC), with no significant adverse events.

Last updated: Aug 26, 2026•1 RCTs•📖 Read as article →

Evidence Score

Evidence Score53/100
Human RCT★★☆☆☆
Meta-analysis☆☆☆☆☆
Mechanism★★★★★
Safety★★★★☆
Confidencelow

Study Evidence

Study 1. A clinical assessment of the therapeutic effects of Ashwagandha root extract on cognitive performance, sleep, and fatigue in children aged 6-12 years.

observational

Saxena A, Lopresti A, Sharif M, Elon N, Suri R, Langade DK · Frontiers in nutrition (2026)

Participants: N/A
Duration: 8 weeks
Intervention: Standardized Ashwagandha root extract (ARE) gummies, 150 mg twice daily for 8 weeks
Outcome: Cognitive performance (attention, memory, executive function via COMPASS), sleep quality (SDSC), fatigue, and safety
Effect Size: d=0.59 to 0.75 for cognitive outcomes; sleep improvement p=0.035 (effect size not reported)
Population: Healthy children aged 6-12 years with parent-reported concerns related to attention, concentration, or memory

Result:

PubMed: 41889719DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2026.1742138

Mechanism Graph

Ashwagandha root extract acts as an adaptogen
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Reduces stress and cortisol levels
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Enhances neuroplasticity and cognitive function
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Result: Improved information processing, memory, and sleep quality

Limitations

  • ⚠High dropout rate (12 of 85 participants did not complete)
  • ⚠Parent-reported outcomes may introduce bias
  • ⚠Short duration (8 weeks) limits long-term conclusions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended dose of Ashwagandha for children?▼

In this study, children aged 6-12 years received 150 mg of standardized Ashwagandha root extract twice daily for 8 weeks.

Is Ashwagandha safe for children?▼

The study reported no significant adverse events, suggesting it is well tolerated in children aged 6-12 years over an 8-week period.

What cognitive benefits were observed?▼

Significant improvements were seen in speed of information processing, delayed word recall, Stroop task accuracy, Corsi block span, and choice reaction time accuracy.

Did Ashwagandha improve sleep in children?▼

Yes, parent-reported sleep quality improved significantly on the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children (SDSC) after 8 weeks of supplementation.

Products

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References

  1. 1.Saxena A, Lopresti A, Sharif M, Elon N, Suri R, Langade DK. "A clinical assessment of the therapeutic effects of Ashwagandha root extract on cognitive performance, sleep, and fatigue in children aged 6-12 years.." Frontiers in nutrition, 2026. PMID: 41889719 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2026.1742138
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Evidence scores reflect the quality and quantity of available research, not clinical recommendations. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement or intervention.