Respiratory: Bronchitis

Cardiovascular: May help reduce blood pressure

Gastrointestinal: Hiccups

Genitourinary/Hormone: Has been used as an aphrodisiac. May enhance sexual function and fertility, and may boost testosterone in men. PMS, Premenstrual dysphoric syndrome (PMDD), and menopausal mood symptoms.

Musculoskeletal: May help build muscles, increase muscle strength, increase endurance and stamina, reduce inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis, backache, and fibromyalgia; osteoarthritis

Skin: Leukoderma (including whitening of skin in vitiligo and scarring)

Glucose: May help to lower blood sugar

Thyroid: May help stabilize hypothyroidism

Immunity: Promotes immunity

Cancer: Anti-Tumor

Neuro: Increases brain function, cognition and memory; decreases cortisol; neuroprotective; Parkinson's, hemiplegia, memory loss

Metal Health: Decreases stress; generalized anxiety disorder, antidepressant, stress, insomnia, bipolar behavior, ADHD, OCD, and possible stimulant properties but may help in inducing sleep. Reported to help with concentration.

Infectious Disease: Tuberculosis

Other: Stimulates metabolism, anemia (increases hemoglobin), may improve thyroid function

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SIDE EFFECTS: Possible stomach issues (nausea/vomiting/diarrhea) in large quantities, sleepiness, dizziness, may cause increased liver problems (especially in those with preexisting liver disease).

CAUTIONS/CONTRAINDICATIONS: Caution with blood pressure medications (BP may go too low), caution with diabetes medication (may cause hypoglycemia), liver disease, hyperthyroidism, ulcers, caution with immune disorders, cancer, immune problems (MS, RA, lupus), blood thinners, may interact with other herbal supplements

Note: This may interfere with some lab tests

FORMS: Capsules, extract, tea

Be aware that, according to some third-party testing, some brands do not contain enough active ingredient withanolides.

Recommended Products

NOW 450 mg vegetarian capsules 

Herb Pharm 833 mg extract 

Gaia Herb Ashwagandha 350 mg blend 

Himalaya Organic Ashwagandha 280 mg extract and 380 mg root powder — available through this Fullscript link

Nature’s Way 500 mg extract in a vegan capsule — widely available in drugstores and grocery stores; also available through this Fullscript link

Dosage

As directed on the product label.

Some clinical and consumer sources describe a wide range of herbal amounts, and many are not supported by strong evidence. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

According to NIH publications, amounts used in studies have ranged from 300–600 mg daily. These study amounts are not clinical recommendations and may not apply to consumer products.

For detailed drug dosing and interaction information, refer to Epocrates.

Traditional Use (General Information Only)

Ashwagandha has traditionally been used in various forms, including capsules, powders, and liquid extracts. Common traditional applications include general wellness support, stress support, and vitality‑related uses.

These reflect traditional and consumer uses, not evidence‑based medical treatments. Product formulations vary widely, so it is important to follow the manufacturer’s directions.

Note: I partner only with reputable, high‑quality herbal and supplement brands to bring you products that meet standards for safety, effectiveness, and transparency. I research each product before sharing it. When you click a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the free educational content on this site.

**Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.