Ayurveda for Promoting Recovery In Long COVID (APRIL Trial)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Clinical trial of Ashwagandha for promoting recovery from COVID-19 in the UK
IRAS ID
293329
Contact name
Sanjay Kinra
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
Eudract number
2020-005789-33
ISRCTN Number
ISRCTN12368131
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 2 months, 30 days
Research summary
This study is a double-blind randomised placebo-controlled trial aiming to evaluate the effectiveness of a Indian traditional herb, Ashwagandha, for promoting recovery in people experiencing on-going symptoms of Long COVID.
‘Ashwagandha’ (Withania somnifera) has been used for centuries as part of the traditional Indian Ayurvedic system of medicine for promoting energy and vitality, reducing stress and boosting the immune system. Recently, a number of small and medium randomised trials in humans have demonstrated its potential effectiveness for reducing many of the symptoms characteristic of long COVID. Ashwagandha has a well accepted safety profile as is available over the counter as a herbal supplement in the UK.
For this trial, we propose to recruit up to 2500 patients. Participants will be recruited through select recruiting GP practices based across the UK. They will take trial medication for 3 months which will be sent to their house via post. Follow-up surveys to assess their functional status, quality of life, symptom burden and work status will be conducted by online or postal questionnaires. Clinical monitoring to assess safety will be conducted monthly and at the end of the trial, remotely or in-person, through participating GP practices.REC name
Wales REC 3
REC reference
22/WA/0157
Date of REC Opinion
26 Jul 2022
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion