Ashwagandha
Indian ginseng, withanolide glycosides, cortisol-reducing adaptogen.
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Pharmacology
Contents
Related comparisons
Ashwagandha vs Rhodiola vs BacopaWHAT IS ASHWAGANDHA?
Detailed overview
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is one of the most extensively researched adaptogens of Ayurvedic rasayana medicine. Its actives are withanolide glycosides (notably withaferin-A and withanolide-A). RCT evidence: Chandrasekhar 2012 (PMID 23439798) showed a 28% cortisol reduction with KSM-66 (600 mg) daily over 60 days; Lopresti 2019 (PMID 31337677) found similar stress-scale improvement with Sensoril 240 mg; Salve 2019 (PMID 32034431) documented sleep quality and insomnia improvement. In athletes, testosterone and VO2max enhancement is documented. Side effects are usually mild (GI), but TSH/T4 elevation in hypothyroidism → specialist consultation required. Denmark has banned ashwagandha-containing dietary supplements since 2020 (on hormonal-endocrine concerns).
Mechanism
HPA-axis modulation + GABAergic
Onset
2-8 weeks chronic use
Legal status
OTC dietary supplement
Receptor profile
- Cortisol / HPA axisModerate
- GABA-A receptorsModerate
- Testosterone / reproductive axisWeak
- Antioxidant defensesWeak
Safety
Side effects, stop signs, contraindications
Side effects · 6
- Mild gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea, stomach cramps), especially on an empty stomach
- Daytime drowsiness, sedation and grogginess due to the GABAergic effect
- Thyroid hormone (TSH/T4) elevation, hyperthyroid-like symptoms
- Rare but documented liver injury (hepatotoxicity, jaundice) with prolonged use
- Headache, dizziness
- Allergic skin reactions in sensitive individuals
Contraindications · 6
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: avoid (possible abortifacient, uterine-stimulating effect)
- Thyroid disease (hyperthyroidism) or thyroid hormone medication: requires medical supervision
- Autoimmune conditions (e.g. SLE, RA, multiple sclerosis): caution due to immune-stimulating effect
- With sedatives, benzodiazepines or alcohol: additive sedation
- Active or prior liver disease: avoid due to hepatotoxicity risk
- Discontinue 2 weeks before surgery (sedation and blood-sugar lowering)
Related Nootropics
Same therapeutic category
FAQ
FAQ
Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb (also called Indian ginseng) used mainly to help the body cope with stress and to lower cortisol levels, functioning as what's called an adaptogen. It's one of the most extensively researched adaptogens, backed by clinical studies.
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Structure & chemistry
The information here is strictly for educational and scientific purposes. It does not replace medical advice or clinical consultation, and it does not encourage illegal substance or pharmaceutical use. Data is sourced. When in doubt, consult your doctor.