Overview
Ashwagandha is tracked as a supplement in Milligram's compound library. Standardized root extract of Withania somnifera.
With a half-life of ~6 hours, Ashwagandha requires daily administration in most observed protocols. Taken orally, it has a bioavailability of approximately 95% via its primary route.
Half-life approximately 6 hours for primary withanolides. KSM-66 is a full-spectrum extraction. Effects accumulate over 4–8 weeks of consistent use. One-compartment model.
Mechanism of Action
Ashwagandha's pharmacological activity involves the following key pathways:
Primary Mechanism
Ashwagandha exerts its effects through its established pharmacological pathway. Its mechanism has been characterized in published research.
Bioavailability Profile
Ashwagandha has high oral bioavailability, which influences dosing strategy and administration timing.
Dosing Protocols
The following protocols represent commonly observed dosing patterns. These are observational summaries, not recommendations.
Dose
300 mg/day
Route
Oral
Frequency
Once daily
Duration
Ongoing
Dose
600 mg/day
Route
Oral
Frequency
Once daily
Duration
Ongoing
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ashwagandha KSM-66 and how does it work?
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an adaptogenic herb used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine. KSM-66 is a full-spectrum root extract standardized to 5% withanolides by HPLC. It modulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis to regulate cortisol output, while also influencing GABAergic and serotonergic pathways involved in stress response and mood regulation.
How long does Ashwagandha take to work?
Subtle reductions in perceived stress and improved sleep onset are commonly reported within 1–2 weeks of consistent dosing. Measurable changes in cortisol levels and more pronounced effects on anxiety, energy, and body composition are typically observed at 8–12 weeks. A clinical trial using 600 mg/day of KSM-66 observed significant cortisol reductions by week 8.
Does Ashwagandha increase testosterone?
Clinical studies have observed modest increases in testosterone levels in men supplementing with KSM-66 at 600 mg/day, particularly in individuals with suboptimal baseline levels or those under chronic stress. A 2019 study in overweight men aged 40–70 reported a 14.7% greater increase in testosterone compared to placebo over 8 weeks. The effect is attributed primarily to cortisol reduction rather than direct androgenic activity.
What is the best time to take Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha can be taken morning or evening depending on the desired effect. Evening dosing is more commonly observed when sleep quality is the primary goal, as its GABAergic activity supports relaxation. Morning dosing is frequently reported when targeting daytime stress and energy. The withanolides in KSM-66 have a half-life of approximately 6 hours, so some users split the dose between morning and evening.
What are the side effects of Ashwagandha KSM-66?
Ashwagandha is generally well-tolerated at standard doses of 300–600 mg/day. The most commonly reported effects include mild gastrointestinal discomfort, drowsiness, and headache, which are typically transient. Rare cases of liver enzyme elevations have been documented in case reports, though systematic reviews have not established a causal link at standard doses.
Can you take Ashwagandha long-term?
Clinical trials have studied continuous Ashwagandha supplementation for up to 12 weeks with favorable safety profiles. Longer-term use of 6–12 months is commonly reported in community protocols. Some practitioners observe cycling patterns of 8–12 weeks on followed by 2–4 weeks off, though the rationale for cycling an adaptogen is less established than for hormonal compounds.