SupplementDuel

Ashwagandha

Adaptogen

The most clinically-studied adaptogen. Reliably lowers cortisol, raises testosterone in stressed men, and improves sleep onset.

cortisoltestosteronestresssleep
Typical dose
300–600 mg (5% withanolides)
Evidence
Moderate (some RCTs)
Onset time
Cumulative: 4–8 weeks
Half-life
~7 hours
Forms
Capsule, Powder, Liquid
Source
plant
Best taken with
with food
Best time of day
any
Bioavailability
4/5
Safety rating
4/5
Price per serving
$0.30
Vegan / GF / 3rd-party
✓ / ✓ / ✓
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Common uses

  • • Stress / anxiety
  • • Sleep
  • • Testosterone (in stressed men)
  • • Strength

Effect profile

Strength
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Muscle
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Energy
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Focus
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Mood
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Sleep
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Immunity
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Recovery
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Longevity
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Common side effects

  • • Mild GI upset
  • • Drowsiness
  • • Increased thyroid hormone

Avoid if

  • • Hyperthyroid
  • • Pregnancy
  • • Autoimmune disease (theoretical)

Drug interactions

  • • Thyroid meds
  • • Sedatives
  • • Immunosuppressants

Related adaptogen supplements

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Medical disclaimer

SupplementDuel is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult a physician before starting, stopping, or combining supplements.