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Ashwagandha (KSM-66)

Stress · Anxiety · Sleep
Tier 2 — Promising

What it is

Helps lower stress and anxiety levels noticeably within weeks. Multiple 2024-2025 reviews show it significantly reduces the stress hormone cortisol. Safety data beyond 3 months is limited, and rare cases of liver injury have been reported. Best used in cycles of 8 to 12 weeks on, then 2 to 4 weeks off. Choose a standardized extract like KSM-66.

Efficacy
4/5
Safety
3/5
Research
4/5
Onset
2/5
Cost
3/5
Drug-int.
3/5

Dose

300–600 mg/day standardised extract; cycle 8–12 wks on, 2–4 off

Time of day & tips

Take with food or water. Split into morning and evening doses if using 600 mg. Avoid combining with thyroid medications. Stop 2 weeks before any planned surgery.

Cycling

Cycle 8-12 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off. Safety beyond 3 months not well established. Rare liver injury cases reported with continuous use. NCCIH recommends caution with prolonged use.

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