Sustained release ashwagandha extract, Prolanza, demonstrated to be safe and effective at supporting cognitive health in recent study

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A recent study¹ found that a proprietary sustained release extract of Ashwagandha root (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) was safe and effective at support cognitive health. The extract researchers investigated is called Prolanza, manufactured by Nutriventia (Mumbai, India). In the study, 130 healthy subjects were randomized to receive either 300 mg capsule of the ashwagandha extract or placebo, daily for 90 days. The primary endpoint researchers measured was the subjects’ cognitive function with Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB), at baseline and throughout the 90-day study period (four study visits). Secondary endpoints evaluated by the researchers was the change in the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) Oxford Happiness Questionnaire (OHQ), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores as well as serum cortisol and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels.

Results showed that, based on CANTAB, subject taking the ashwagandha extract experienced significant improvements in recall memory, a significant reduction in the total error rate in recalling patterns at the end of the study period, compared to placebo. Subjects taking the ashwagandha extract also saw lower PSS-10 scores, serum cortisol levels, PSQI scores, and higher OHQ scores after four visits. This suggests significantly lower stress levels as well as significantly better psychological well-being and sleep quality. Additionally, no adverse events were reported as a result of consuming the ashwagandha extract.

“The results of this study illuminate why ashwagandha is known as the stress-busting adaptogen,” said Anand Godbole, Nutriventia’s vice president of marketing, in a press release. “Further, consumers who are seeking noticeable reductions in stress response will appreciate Prolanza’s sustained-release delivery, which increases the duration of its effects, safely.”

The study results were announced to coincide with SupplySide West 2022, taking place in Las Vegas, NV on November 2-3, 2022.

Reference

Gopukumar K et al. “Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha Root Extract on Cognitive Functions in Healthy, Stressed Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study.” Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, vol. 2021 (November 30, 2021), https://doi.org/10.1155/2021/8254344