What is the recommended dosage for Ashwagandha?

Sleep: 600 mg at bedtime; General: 300-600 mg/day KSM-66 standardized extract; Stress Cortisol: 600 mg/day

What are the side effects of Ashwagandha?

Potential side effects include: Drowsiness, GI discomfort, Rare liver injury at very high doses, Thyroid hormone changes.

What is ashwagandha and how may it support weight management?

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an adaptogenic herb used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. Some clinical studies suggest it may help reduce cortisol levels and stress-related eating behaviors. Research on its direct effects on body weight is limited but emerging.

What dosage of ashwagandha has been studied in clinical trials?

Clinical trials have used 300–600 mg per day of ashwagandha root extract standardized to withanolides, typically divided into two doses. Studies on stress and cortisol reduction typically lasted 8–12 weeks. KSM-66 and Sensoril are the most commonly studied branded extracts.

What are the potential side effects of ashwagandha?

Common side effects include mild drowsiness, gastrointestinal discomfort, and diarrhea. Ashwagandha may affect thyroid hormone levels and should be used cautiously by individuals with thyroid conditions. It is not recommended during pregnancy. Cases of liver injury have been reported rarely.

Ashwagandha

hormonal

Also known as: Withania somnifera, KSM-66, Sensoril, Indian Ginseng, Winter Cherry

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About

A withanolide-rich adaptogenic herb (Withania somnifera) with extensive clinical research supporting its role in modulating cortisol levels and the stress response. Systematic reviews demonstrate ashwagandha may support healthy body weight and composition in chronically stressed individuals.

How It Works

Withanolide-rich adaptogen that modulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, reducing cortisol levels by 14-28% in clinical trials. Chronic cortisol elevation promotes visceral fat accumulation, insulin resistance, and stress-driven eating. Also improves thyroid function (T3/T4), testosterone levels, and sleep quality — all of which influence metabolic rate and body composition.

Evidence For Conditions

Condition	Grade	Studies	Participants
Cortisol-Related Weight Gain	B	12	700	View →
Exercise Performance for Weight Loss	B	8	500	View →
Emotional Eating	C	5	300	View →

Side Effects

Drowsiness
GI discomfort
Rare liver injury at very high doses
Thyroid hormone changes

Drug & Supplement Interactions

Thyroid medications (may increase thyroid hormone levels)
Sedatives (additive drowsiness)
Immunosuppressants (may stimulate immune system)
Diabetes medications (may lower blood sugar)

Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you take.

Related Ingredients

DHEA Maca Vitamin D

Quick Facts

Dosage: Sleep: 600 mg at bedtime; General: 300-600 mg/day KSM-66 standardized extract; Stress_Cortisol: 600 mg/day
Forms: capsule powder liquid extract gummy
Natural Sources: Withania somnifera root (Indian shrub, supplement form only)
Upper Limit: 1,200 mg/day; rare liver injury cases at very high or prolonged doses
Best Time: Morning for energy/cortisol; evening for sleep; with meals

Evidence Summary

Cortisol-Related Weight Gain B

Exercise Performance for Weight Loss B

Emotional Eating C

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.