ADRENAL SUPPORT

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

Evidence in context

Products may contain root, leaf, or different combinations of extracts. Some preparations may help stress and insomnia, but many trials are small and use different products. Evidence for anxiety remains unclear, and long-term safety is not established.

Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is not recommended with thyroid or autoimmune disorders or before surgery. Medication interactions and rare liver injury have been reported.

NCCIH reference → · Source checked September 14, 2026

NIH NCCIH Herbs at a Glance · MedlinePlus Herbs & Supplements

Works with

Rhodiola Both are clinically validated adaptogens acting on the HPA axis; combined use is common in stress and fatigue protocols.

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