Nootropic
Ashwagandha
Also known as: Withania somnifera, Indian ginseng, Ashwagandha (Thyroid Support), Ashwagandha Extract (Withania somnifera)
Ashwagandha is a traditional Ayurvedic herb standardized for withanolides, with evidence supporting modest benefits for stress reduction, anxiety, and cortisol modulation. Multiple clinical trials demonstrate efficacy for stress-related symptoms, though effect sizes are generally moderate.
Primary uses
- Stress/anxiety
- Cortisol reduction
- Sleep
- Testosterone support
- Strength gains
- Fertility
- Subclinical hypothyroidism
- TSH normalization
- Thyroid support
- Stress and anxiety reduction
- Cortisol management
- Sleep quality support
How it works
- GABAergic activity
- Cortisol reduction
- Thyroid hormone support
Dosage
- Typical range
- 300-600 mg daily (KSM-66/Sensoril)
- Timing
- Evening often best for sleep
- With food
- Optional
- Duration
- Benefits build over weeks
- Special populations
- Anxiety, stress, low testosterone
Forms
- KSM-66
- Sensoril
- Root powder
- Capsule
- Powder
- Root extract
- Capsules
- Standardized extract· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Drowsiness
- GI upset
- Headache
Contraindications
- Hyperthyroidism
- Nightshade sensitivity
Known interactions
- Warningwith thyroid medication
Ashwagandha can raise thyroid hormone levels and stack additively with levothyroxine, risking thyrotoxicosis.
- Warningwith sedatives
May enhance sedative effects
- Synergywith black pepper
Piperine may enhance ashwagandha absorption
- Cautionwith ssri
Ashwagandha may enhance SSRI effects
Evidence notes
Best-studied adaptogen for anxiety
Grade A: Multiple well-designed human trials support the main claims.
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