Ashwagandha
Promising but with heterogeneous studies.
What it is for
Stress/cortisol management; signs of improved strength and recovery.
How it works
An adaptogen that appears to modulate the stress axis (HPA) and reduce cortisol in stressed people.
Dosing
300–600 mg of extract (KSM-66 or Sensoril)/day.
When to take it
With food; some prefer it at night for its relaxing effect.
Safety
Generally well tolerated in the short term.
Side effects
Drowsiness, digestive discomfort; rare cases of liver involvement.
Interactions
Sedatives, thyroid medication and immunosuppressants.
Contraindications
Pregnancy, thyroid/autoimmune disease, liver disease (seek medical advice).
Who it has been studied in
A greater effect in people under high stress.
Frequently asked
Does it raise testosterone?
Modest and heterogeneous signals; do not treat it as a reliable hormonal booster.
- Evidence tier
- C
- Quality
- Variable (small studies)
- Studies
- Several RCTs, many with a conflict of interest
- Consensus
- No firm consensus
- Controversy
- Methodological quality and long-term liver safety
- Reviewed
- 2024
Strength of evidence out of 5.