Ashwagandha

evidence score

adaptogen

204 studies

withania somniferaindian ginsengKSM-66+2 more

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an Ayurvedic herb and one of the most extensively researched adaptogens. It reduces cortisol, modulates the HPA axis, and has demonstrated benefits for stress, anxiety, testosterone, muscle recovery, and sleep quality across multiple double-blind RCTs. KSM-66 (full-spectrum root extract) and Sensoril (leaf/root blend) are the two clinically validated standardized extracts.

Evidence

Strong evidence

Safety

Unknown safety profile

Clinical Status

No formal phase listed

Research Sync

Feb 19, 2026

Dosing

Typical

600 mg

300 mgRange1200 mg

Frequencydaily (split 2x/day)

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Pharmacology

Half-life~12 hours (withanolides)

Onset2-4 weeks for stress and cortisol effects; acute anxiolytic effects within 60-90 min

DurationEffects persist with daily use; 2-3 week wash-out to baseline

Routes

oral

Evidence Score

Level A — Strong

204 studies indexed · 9 meta-analyses

Scoring Factors

Volume(40%)~46/100

Quality(30%)~53/100

Sample Size(10%)~100/100

Consistency(10%)~100/100

Replication(5%)~100/100

Recency(5%)~100/100

Scores estimated from study counts. Exact breakdown computed after research sync.

Evidence Levels

AScore ≥75 with at least 1 meta-analysis and 3+ RCTs

BScore ≥50 with at least 1 RCT or meta-analysis

CScore ≥25 — observational or animal evidence only

DScore <25 — very limited or preclinical data

Plain-English Snapshot

Ashwagandha is currently categorized as a adaptogen compound.

Evidence is strong (75/100) with a relatively mature body of research (204 indexed studies).

Safety scoring is incomplete. Start conservatively and monitor carefully.

Core mechanism

Withanolides modulate HPA axis, reduce cortisol, potentiate GABA-A signaling, and inhibit NF-kB inflammation

Practical Context

Strongest current signals

Level B: Ashwagandha Root Extract Stabilises Physiological Stress Responses in Male and Female Team Sports Athletes During Pre-Season Training.
Level D: Standardized Withania somnifera extract (600 mg/day) offers anxiolytic efficacy comparable to Sertraline with a superior safety profile, specifically devoid of sexual and gastrointestinal adverse effects.
Level D: Both VL-G-A57 and VL-G-E12 were associated with reductions in stress, fatigue, and anxiety while improving mood and sleep quality.

Elevated caution signals

1 severe/high side effect flag