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Ashwagandha (KSM-66)

Adaptogenic herb showing promise for stress reduction, cortisol management, and cognitive function in multiple human trials.

Human Trials

28

2,150 participants

Risk Level

Low Risk

Monthly Cost

$15$45 /month

Based on 300-600mg daily dosing of standardized KSM-66 extract

Quick Facts

Category
Supplement
Research Field
Supplements
Evidence Grade
B – Moderate
Risk Level
Low
Monthly Cost
$15 – $45
Human Trials
28

Typical Dose

300–600 mg/day (standardized root extract)

Range

300–1200 mg/day

Timingevening or split morning/evening; with food
FormKSM-66 or Sensoril extract (5% withanolides)
NotesKSM-66 (full-spectrum root) is the most studied extract. Effects on cortisol and testosterone take 4–8 weeks. Avoid in thyroid conditions without physician guidance.

For informational purposes only – not medical advice. See disclaimer

Research Velocity

+21%
47 publications in the last 12 months · steady increase in publications
High Community Interest
290 mentions
Sources:LongecityReddit
Updated 2026-03-16

Mechanism of Action

KSM-66 ashwagandha acts as an adaptogen by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and reducing cortisol levels. Research indicates it influences GABA signaling pathways and may affect neurotransmitter balance. The withanolides, particularly withanoside IV and withanoside VI, appear to be the primary bioactive compounds responsible for its stress-reducing and neuroprotective effects.

Overview

KSM-66 ashwagandha is a patented, full-spectrum extract of Withania somnifera root that has demonstrated consistent benefits in multiple human trials. Research indicates this adaptogenic herb may help reduce perceived stress levels, lower cortisol concentrations, and improve stress-related symptoms including anxiety and sleep quality. Studies suggest KSM-66 may also support cognitive function, with some trials showing improvements in attention, information processing speed, and executive function in stressed adults.

The extract has shown a favorable safety profile in clinical trials, with most studies reporting minimal adverse effects when used at standard dosages of 300-600mg daily. Research indicates KSM-66 may also support physical performance, with some studies suggesting benefits for muscle strength, muscle mass, and exercise recovery. Additionally, preliminary evidence suggests potential benefits for thyroid function, though more research is needed to establish definitive effects.

While the research foundation for KSM-66 ashwagandha is growing, most individual studies have been relatively small and of short duration. The evidence base would benefit from larger, longer-term trials to better establish optimal dosing protocols and long-term safety. Despite these limitations, the consistency of positive findings across multiple domains makes KSM-66 one of the better-researched adaptogenic supplements currently available.

Known Interactions

  • May enhance effects of sedative medications and benzodiazepines
  • Potential interaction with thyroid medications due to thyroid hormone modulation
  • May interact with immunosuppressant drugs by potentially boosting immune function
  • Possible interaction with diabetes medications due to blood sugar lowering effects
  • May enhance effects of blood pressure medications

Legal Status by Country

📍

Your country (United States)

OTC
✈️

Available without prescription in:

Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, Germany, India, Israel, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Russia, South Korea, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, UAE, United Kingdom, United States, Panama

Australia
OTC
✈️Brazil
OTC
Canada
OTC
China
OTC
✈️Colombia
OTC
Germany
OTC
✈️India
OTC
✈️Israel
OTC
Japan
OTC
✈️Mexico
OTC
Netherlands
OTC
Russia
OTC
✈️South Korea
OTC
Switzerland
OTC
✈️Thailand
OTC
✈️Turkey
OTC
✈️UAE
OTC
United Kingdom
OTC
📍United States
OTC
✈️Panama
Unregulated

📍 = your selected country · ✈️ = medical tourism destination · Always verify current local regulations before travel.

Key Research

Where to Buy

Everspan may earn a commission on purchases. This doesn't affect our evidence-based ratings.

MomentousPremium

Momentous Ashwagandha (KSM-66)

$38/moBuy →
ThorneEditor's pick

Thorne Phytisone Ashwagandha

$30/moBuy →
iHerbBudget

Jarrow Formulas Ashwagandha 300mg

$14/moBuy →

Last verified: 2026-03-16