The purpose of this project is to better understand the role of ashwagandha on the stress response and wellbeing among healthy, stressed women.
Female, ages 18-45
No hormonal birth control
Identify as having a regular sleep schedule (eg. sleep by 1am and wake by 9am)
Identify as having a regular menstrual period between 27-32 days apart on average
Diagnosed major depressive disorder or generalized anxiety disorder in the last 3 months, any liver, kidney, or thyroid disorder/dysfunction/injury, or diabetes
Using any medication related to cortisol or HPA function such as corticosteroids, antidepressants, anti-psychotics, CNS-depressants (benzodiazepines, non-benzodiazepine sedatives, barbiturates, anti-convulsants, anesthetics), thyroid medications, diabetic medications, or immunosuppressants
Taken any form of ashwagandha within the last 3 months
Daily use of alcohol, nicotine, or other substances