Ashwagandha

Glossary / Nootropics / Ashwagandha
NOOTROPICS · GLOSSARY ENTRY

Ashwagandha

An adaptogenic herb (Withania somnifera) used in Ayurvedic medicine for stress, sleep, and physical performance.

Why it matters

Ashwagandha root extract has been studied for cortisol modulation, anxiety, sleep quality, and androgen levels in men. The standardised KSM-66 and Sensoril extracts are the most studied forms. Effects on subjective stress and anxiety are the best supported; effects on athletic performance and testosterone are more variable.

In practice

Typical doses are 300–600mg of a standardised extract once or twice daily. Effects build over weeks rather than days. The compound interacts with thyroid hormone medications and immunosuppressants.

Common confusion

“Ashwagandha boosts testosterone” is sometimes overstated — the effect in healthy adults is modest and inconsistent across studies.

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    This glossary entry is editorial content reviewed against primary sources. It is not medical advice. See our Editorial Policy.

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