Anxiolytic efficacy of Sphaeranthus indicus Linn Ghana Vati in Generalized Anxiety Disorder: A randomized, placebo-controlled trial

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a prevalent psychiatric condition marked by persistent worry that disrupts daily life. Conventional treatments, such as SSRIs and benzodiazepines, are often limited by side effects, including sedation and dependence. Sphaeranthus indicus Linn., a well-known Ayurvedic herb, has shown promising anxiolytic potential. This randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of Sphaeranthus indicus Ghana Vati (SIGV) in patients with GAD. Fifty patients diagnosed according to DSM-IV criteria were randomly assigned to receive either SIGV (500 mg, twice daily) or placebo for eight weeks. Anxiety reduction, the primary outcome, was measured using the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), while secondary outcomes included psychological assessments with the NIMHANS Screening Tool and Manas Bhava Parikshana. The SIGV group exhibited significantly greater improvement in anxiety symptoms than the placebo group. Reductions in anxious mood (63.2 % vs. 41.7 %, p < 0.05), tension (64.0 % vs. 40.4 %, p < 0.01), and insomnia (72.9 % vs. 43.9 %, p < 0.001) were notable. The most significant difference was observed in fear reduction (80.0 % vs. 44.7 %, p < 0.001). Additionally, improvements in depressed mood (62.2 % vs. 41.5 %, p < 0.05) and somatic complaints were significant. However, autonomic symptom improvement (17.8 % vs. 38.1 %) did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.08). These findings suggest that SIGV is a safe and effective intervention for GAD, producing substantial improvements in core anxiety symptoms and emotional well-being compared to placebo. The results highlight SIGV’s potential as a natural and well-tolerated treatment option. Further research is warranted to assess its long-term efficacy and explore its integration into standard psychiatric care.