Ashwagandha
Withania somnifera
also known as Indian ginseng, Winter cherry, Asgandh
A revered Ayurvedic adaptogen used to support resilience to stress, sleep, energy, and emotional balance, with growing modern evidence for cortisol reduction.
- Acts as an adaptogen
- Supports the body's stress response
- May reduce circulating cortisol
- Supports sleep quality
- May reduce anxiety symptoms
- Supports recovery from physical exertion
- Supports stamina and energy
- May support male fertility and testosterone
Active in Withanolides, Withaferin A, Sitoindosides, Alkaloids, Steroidal lactones.
Avoid in pregnancy — may induce miscarriage
Avoid with hormone-sensitive cancers (e.g., prostate)
Avoid with pre-existing liver problems
Use caution with thyroid medication, sedatives, and immunosuppressants
Discontinue 2 weeks before surgery
Linked to rare cases of liver injury
Banned in Denmark (2023) due to thyroid and hormone concerns
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