CA-20260928-4710High Exam Priority
Ministry of Ayush Publishes Clinical Study Proving Ashwagandha Safety
28 September 2026
4 min read
Source:PIB India (Press Information Bureau)
A multi-centre clinical trial published in Frontiers in Medicine confirms that daily consumption of standardized Ashwagandha root extract over 24 weeks causes no adverse effects on liver or kidney functions. The research underscores the growing scientific validation of traditional Ayurvedic interventions.
Key Highlights
- The 24-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluated 1,200 healthy adult participants aged 18 to 70 years across seven specialized centers in India.
- Participants received a daily dose of 500 mg standardized aqueous Ashwagandha root extract—equivalent to 4 grams of raw root powder—following COVISHIELD vaccination.
- The multidisciplinary research team comprised 45 investigators from 9 premier institutions, including CCRAS, AIIA, and translational health research bodies.
- Standard clinical evaluations confirmed that liver enzymes, bilirubin, creatinine, and blood urea levels remained well within normal reference ranges throughout the trial period.
- The clinical trial was officially registered under the Clinical Trials Registry–India (CTRI/2021/06/034496) to maintain transparent research protocols.
Exam Quick Facts
Nodal Ministry / Dept
Ministry of Ayush
Key Bodies
Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI)
Constitutional & Legal Context
Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and Rules thereunder regulating Ayurvedic, Siddha, and Unani drugs in India.
Static GK Connection
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a vital medicinal herb in Ayurveda, traditionally classified as a 'Rasayana' (rejuvenator) known for its adaptogenic properties.
In-Depth Editorial & Exam Analysis
The publication of this comprehensive clinical trial in a peer-reviewed international journal marks a significant milestone in evidence-based Ayurveda. Historically, traditional herbal medicines often face skepticism globally due to a perceived lack of rigorous, large-scale clinical safety data. By deploying a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled methodology—the gold standard in modern clinical research—the Ministry of Ayush is systematically bridging ancient botanical wisdom with contemporary scientific scrutiny. This proactive approach not only builds global consumer confidence but also facilitates regulatory acceptance of Ayurvedic formulations in international markets.
Official Reference:PIB India (Press Information Bureau)