What are the effects of ashwagandha

Ashwagandha has several notable effects, especially concerning stress and hormonal balance. It's widely recognized for its ability to reduce anxiety and lower cortisol levels. Specifically, studies have shown that ashwagandha can decrease cortisol by 14.5 to 27.9% in stressed individuals, making it a substantial tool for managing stress and its effects on the body 1 2.

Apart from stress reduction, ashwagandha has broader health benefits. It can enhance power output in athletes, modestly increase testosterone, and help manage cholesterol levels. This adaptogenic herb is also reported to improve cardiovascular health, reduce symptoms of OCD, and enhance memory and sleep quality by indirectly impacting hormone balances through cortisol reduction 3 4.

However, it's advised to cycle ashwagandha rather than use it continuously, as high doses over long periods might lead to issues with liver and thyroid function. It is typically recommended to take ashwagandha later in the day to aid with sleep and to follow the dosing guidelines provided by reputable sources or examine.com 5.