Ashwagandha Plus
YourHealthier Ashwagandha Plus contains 600mg KSM-66® root extract standardized to 5% withanolides — the most clinically studied ashwagandha extract with 24+ published human trials. Enhanced with L-Arginine, Maca, Panax Ginseng, Shatavari, and Vitamins D3/B6/B12. Supports cortisol regulation, stress resilience, and sleep quality. Third-party tested. Made in USA. 60 capsules (30-day supply).
600mg KSM-66® Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root extract — 5% withanolides — enhanced with a mix of adaptogens (Maca, Panax Ginseng, Shatavari), an amino acid (L-Arginine), and vitamins (D3, B6, B12). That thing where you're exhausted by 3pm but wide awake at midnight? Where your shoulders live somewhere near your ears and your brain won't stop running after the lights go out? Most people blame sleep. It's almost always cortisol — your HPA axis stuck in overdrive, pumping stress hormones at the wrong times, and no amount of melatonin or chamomile tea is going to fix what's happening upstream.*
KSM-66 is a clinically studied ashwagandha extract supported by multiple published human trials. The Chandrasekhar 2012 RCT showed a 27.9% reduction in serum cortisol over 60 days, measured by blood draw, not questionnaire. That's the kind of data that got Dr. Andrew Huberman (Stanford Neurobiology) to discuss it by name. We use the full 600mg dose used in clinical studies, plus Maca Root, Panax Ginseng, Shatavari, L-Arginine, and Vitamins D3, B6, B12 — because chronic stress may drain energy, influence hormones, immune function, and recovery alongside cortisol.*
Why this ashwagandha
- 🧬 KSM-66® — clinically studied branded extract — full-spectrum root extract, 5% withanolides, root-only. The extract used for centuries in Ayurvedic practice and supported by 24+ published human clinical trials. Clinically studied extracts such as KSM-66 and Sensoril provide standardized withanolide content and published research support.
- 💊 600mg per serving — aligned with the dose used in clinical studies — the trials evaluating KSM-66 for stress, sleep, and strength outcomes used 600mg/day, commonly split as 300mg twice daily.
- 🌿 A complete blend of adaptogens, an amino acid, and vitamins — KSM-66 ashwagandha as the foundation, plus Maca Root, Panax Ginseng, and Shatavari (adaptogens), L-Arginine (amino acid), and Vitamins D3, B6, B12 (cofactors). Most ashwagandha products stop at the ashwagandha alone.
- 🔬 Third-party lab tested for purity and potency — heavy metals, microbials, withanolide content. Certificate of Analysis available on request →
- 👩⚕️ RDN review process — product claims reviewed by a licensed Registered Dietitian Nutritionist before publication
- 🏭 GMP-certified USA facility. Vegetarian. Gluten free. No proprietary blends.
Supplement Facts
| Serving Size | 2 Capsules |
| KSM-66® Ashwagandha Extract (5% Withanolides) | 600 mg |
| L-Arginine | 300 mg |
| Maca Root Powder | 150 mg |
| Panax Ginseng Powder | 100 mg |
| Shatavari Powder | 50 mg |
| Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) | 20 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 (Methylcobalamin) | 25 mcg |
| Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine HCl) | 2.5 mg |
Other Ingredients: HPMC (vegetable capsule).
60 capsules · 30-day supply · Vegetarian · Gluten free · Non-GMO · Allergen-free · Halal
How to take
2 capsules daily with food. For stress and daytime resilience, take with lunch or in the early afternoon. For sleep, take 1–2 hours before bed. For both, split the dose — 1 morning, 1 evening — which mirrors how most clinical trials dosed it (300mg twice daily).*
On timing: Dr. Huberman suggests afternoon or evening dosing — cortisol is naturally high in the morning and you don't want to blunt that. Clinical trials didn't control for time of day and still worked, but the logic is sound. Start with afternoon and adjust.* Full timing guide →
What to expect: a realistic timeline
Week 1–2
Adjusting to the adaptogen
Most people don't feel dramatic changes in the first week — that's normal. KSM-66 ashwagandha works by modulating your HPA axis (the stress-response system), and this takes time. Some people report slightly better sleep quality early on. Take consistently with food.*
Month 1–3
Cortisol and stress adaptation
This is where KSM-66 clinical trials show real changes. Salve et al. 2019 (n=60, double-blind) measured significant cortisol reduction at both 250mg and 600mg doses over 8 weeks. Langade et al. 2019 (n=60, double-blind) found significant improvements in sleep quality and onset latency over 10 weeks. Both are branded KSM-66 trials — the same extract in this product.*
Month 3–6
Long-term resilience
With sustained use, ashwagandha supports ongoing stress resilience, healthy energy levels, and balanced mood as part of your wellness routine. Long-term safety data at recommended doses is well-documented. If you plan to cycle off, a gradual taper is reasonable.*
*Individual results vary. Describes general patterns observed in published research, not specific product claims. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
What ashwagandha actually does
Cortisol — this is the main event
Chandrasekhar et al. (2012, Indian J Psychological Medicine) ran a 60-day double-blind RCT with KSM-66 at 600mg/day. Serum cortisol dropped 27.9% versus placebo — and that's from a blood draw, not a survey about how people felt. Perceived stress scores dropped 44% on the PSS scale and 72% on the GHQ-28. The same participants reported improved overall well-being, better sleep, and higher productivity.
Why this matters practically: when cortisol stays elevated for weeks or months, it may contribute to disruptions in sleep, body composition, memory, and immune resilience. The stress response itself can become more reactive over time. Ashwagandha works on the HPA axis — the system running the cortisol cascade — and may help support healthy stress regulation upstream. People who take it consistently tend to describe it as the background noise of stress getting quieter.* Full cortisol research →
Sleep quality
Langade et al. (2019, Cureus) ran a 10-week trial of KSM-66 in adults with and without sleep difficulties. The ashwagandha group fell asleep faster, slept more soundly, and woke up feeling more alert — all versus placebo. The mechanism isn't sedation. As evening cortisol may come down, the body may shift more easily into relaxation and sleep onset.* Full sleep research →
Strength, recovery, and body composition
Wankhede et al. (2015, JISSN) put men on an 8-week resistance training program with KSM-66 versus placebo. The ashwagandha group reported greater muscle strength on bench press, more lean mass overall, and faster recovery between sessions. Endurance also held up better. Testosterone levels were observed to stay within a healthy range — a pattern consistent with what this controlled clinical trial reported for the ingredient. The findings referenced were observed in a controlled clinical trial.*
Stress resilience, cognitive function, and mood
Salve et al. (2019, Cureus) explored the stress findings in a separate 60-day double-blind trial — KSM-66 supported perceived stress measures in otherwise healthy adults dealing with mild chronic stress. Some participants also reported subjective improvements in focus and emotional groundedness. Pratte et al. (2014, JACM) conducted a systematic review pulling together 5 human trials. Multiple studies have explored ashwagandha's potential role in stress-related outcomes.* Cited research describes the ingredient KSM-66 ashwagandha, not this specific product. Individual results vary.
How ashwagandha works: the HPA axis
You take
KSM-66 600mg
Modulates
HPA axis
Result
Cortisol normalizes
🧪 Cortisol
–27.9%
Serum cortisol reduction
Chandrasekhar 2012, 60-day RCT
📊 Evidence base
24+
Published human trials
KSM-66 clinical program
💤 Sleep
10 wk
RCT: improved sleep quality
Langade 2019, Cureus
🧬 Standardization
5%
Withanolide content
Root-only full-spectrum extract
Why an adaptogen isn't the same as a sedative
Three different primary mechanisms. Ashwagandha is associated with HPA-axis cortisol modulation; magnesium with nervous-system calming via GABA pathways; melatonin with sleep-onset signaling.*
Sources: PubMed-indexed research cited above. Describes studies on KSM-66 ashwagandha, not specific product claims.
What researchers say about ashwagandha
Dr. Andrew Huberman, PhD (Professor of Neurobiology at Stanford School of Medicine, host of the Huberman Lab podcast) discusses ashwagandha's cortisol-related mechanism, timing, and how it compares to other stress-management tools.
The research behind this product
- Chandrasekhar K et al. 2012 (Indian J Psych Med) — Double-blind RCT, 64 adults, KSM-66 600mg/day × 60 days. Cortisol dropped 27.9%, PSS stress score dropped 44%. (PubMed)
- Langade D et al. 2019 (Cureus) — 10-week RCT, KSM-66, adults with and without sleep difficulties. Sleep quality, onset latency, and morning alertness all improved vs placebo. (PubMed)
- Wankhede S et al. 2015 (JISSN) — 8-week resistance training RCT. KSM-66 group: greater muscle mass, bench press strength, and faster recovery vs placebo. (PubMed)
- Salve J et al. 2019 (Cureus) — 60-day double-blind RCT. KSM-66 supported healthy stress and anxiety measures in adults under mild chronic stress. (PubMed)
- Pratte MA et al. 2014 (JACM) — Systematic review, 5 human trials. Multiple studies have explored ashwagandha's potential role in stress-related outcomes. (PubMed)
KSM-66 vs. other ashwagandha forms
| Form | Source | Withanolides | Clinical research |
|---|---|---|---|
| KSM-66® (this product) | Root only | 5% | YourHealthier found 24+ published human studies |
| Sensoril® | Root + leaf | 10% | YourHealthier found ~12 associated human studies available |
| Shoden® | Root + leaf | 35% | Emerging clinical research available |
| Generic powder | Varies | Unstandardized | Limited clinical research identified |
KSM-66 and Sensoril are both clinically studied branded extracts. KSM-66 follows traditional Ayurvedic practice by using root only (no leaf) and is produced through a proprietary extraction process without alcohol or chemical solvents. Sensoril uses root + leaf and has higher withanolide concentration. Shoden is newer with emerging clinical research. Generic ashwagandha powder is unstandardized and may vary between batches. Full comparison →
How this stacks up
| Feature | YourHealthier | Typical competitors |
|---|---|---|
| Extract form | KSM-66® (branded, clinically studied) | Many use generic powder or don't specify |
| Dose | 600mg — aligned with clinical trial dose | 300–600mg per serving |
| Formula | KSM-66 + Maca + Ginseng + Shatavari + L-Arginine + D3/B6/B12 | Many are ashwagandha-only |
| Lab testing | Third-party tested, COA on request | Claimed but COAs rarely shared |
| Health claims | RDN review process | No professional oversight |
| Research citations | 5 PubMed-linked studies, named researchers | "Clinically studied" with no links |
Who it's for
People running on cortisol fumes. The ones checking their phone at 6am, grinding through the day on caffeine, then lying in bed at midnight unable to downshift. If the constant tiredness that doesn't match how much you slept sounds familiar, that's the cortisol picture. It's also the guy whose gym recovery has quietly gotten worse and whose vitality isn't what it was three years ago, and the person who downloaded a meditation app, used it for a week, and went right back to baseline.*
If your nervous system needs more than a band-aid and your standard is higher than "it says ashwagandha on the bottle," this is the product we built.
Who should NOT take this
- ❌ Pregnant or breastfeeding — ashwagandha has not been proven safe during pregnancy
- ❌ Children — limited safety data and no established pediatric dose
- ❌ Autoimmune conditions (lupus, RA, Hashimoto's, MS) — ashwagandha can stimulate immune activity, which is the opposite of what you want
- ❌ Thyroid medication (levothyroxine) — ashwagandha may affect thyroid hormone levels; get your doctor's sign-off first
- ❌ Surgery within 2 weeks — may affect blood sugar and blood pressure under anesthesia
- ❌ Immunosuppressant drugs — ashwagandha upregulates immune function, which can interfere
Ashwagandha has a strong safety record in clinical trials lasting 8–12 weeks. The contraindications above are specific and well-documented. If you take prescription medication of any kind, check with your healthcare provider before adding this. Full safety guide →
Side effects
Most people notice nothing negative. GI discomfort can happen if you take it on an empty stomach — easy fix, take with food. Drowsiness is possible in the first few days as your body adjusts — take it in the evening if that happens. Rare reports of vivid dreams. If you're sensitive, start with 1 capsule for the first week.*
One note Dr. Huberman has flagged: he suggests cycling ashwagandha rather than taking it indefinitely at high doses, to avoid excessive cortisol suppression. The clinical trials ran daily for 60–90 days without reported issues, but the cycling logic isn't unreasonable if you're using it long-term. A common approach is 8 weeks on, 2 weeks off.*
Pairs well with
Supplement suitability and dosage needs vary by individual. Consult with a healthcare provider before combining supplements, especially if you have a medical condition or take prescription medication.
- Magnesium Glycinate — A commonly used sleep + stress combination. Ashwagandha may influence cortisol through the HPA axis; magnesium supports nervous-system calming through GABA pathways. Different primary mechanisms, potentially complementary effects. Both before bed. Why this combo works →
- Lion's Mane — Morning cognition + daytime stress resilience. Lion's mane supports NGF and neural clarity; ashwagandha is studied for cortisol regulation under pressure. Details →
- Berberine — Chronic stress may influence cortisol and glucose regulation. Berberine activates AMPK. If you're addressing both stress and metabolic health, this is a two-angle approach. Details →
- NMN — Chronic stress may take a toll on cellular health over time. NMN supports NAD+ for cellular maintenance. Ashwagandha is studied for supporting healthy cortisol levels.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best ashwagandha supplement?
Look for three things: a clinically studied branded extract (such as KSM-66 or Sensoril), a dose aligned with clinical study protocols (typically 600mg/day), and third-party testing with a Certificate of Analysis available on request. Clinically studied extracts provide standardized withanolide content, which is harder to guarantee with generic ashwagandha root powder.
How much ashwagandha should I take?
The clinical trials evaluating KSM-66 typically used 600mg daily, often split as 300mg twice a day. That's what our serving provides. Lower doses are also available on the market; you can start lower if you want to ease in, but the dose evaluated in most KSM-66 trials was 600mg.* Full dosage guide →
KSM-66 vs. Sensoril — which is better?
Both are clinically studied. KSM-66 uses root only and is supported by 24+ published trials. Sensoril uses root + leaf, has higher withanolide concentration (10% vs 5%), and is sometimes used for evening-only support. We selected KSM-66 because of its broad range of published human research and its root-only formulation aligned with traditional Ayurvedic practice.
When should I take ashwagandha — morning or night?
For sleep — evening, 1–2 hours before bed. For stress resilience — afternoon. Dr. Huberman specifically suggests avoiding morning dosing because cortisol is naturally (and usefully) elevated in the morning. If you want both benefits, split the dose: 1 capsule with lunch, 1 before bed.* Full timing guide →
How long does ashwagandha take to work?
Most people don't notice much the first week. Around week two or three, some report that stress reactivity feels softer — less jaw clenching, easier sleep onset. The cortisol and sleep data in clinical trials commonly peaked around 8–10 weeks. Individual response varies.*
Should I cycle ashwagandha?
Dr. Huberman suggests cycling to avoid chronic cortisol suppression. Clinical trials ran continuously for 60–90 days without safety issues reported. A reasonable middle ground is 8 weeks on, 2 weeks off. If you're using ashwagandha for a specific stressful period (deadline, move, life event), take it through that period and then taper off. Discuss long-term use with a healthcare provider.*
Can I take ashwagandha with magnesium?
A commonly used combination. They act on different primary pathways — ashwagandha is studied for cortisol regulation, magnesium for GABA-related nervous-system support — so the effects may layer. Both can be taken in the evening with food. Individual response varies; consult with a healthcare provider if you have a medical condition or take medication.*
Is ashwagandha safe with thyroid medication?
Talk to your doctor first. Ashwagandha has been observed to affect thyroid hormone levels (T3 and T4), which may interact with levothyroxine dosing. This is one of the more important drug interactions documented in the ashwagandha category and is not optional to check.
Does ashwagandha affect testosterone?
The Wankhede 2015 trial reported that testosterone levels stayed within a healthy range in men doing resistance training with KSM-66. The proposed mechanism may be indirect — supporting healthy cortisol may create a more favorable hormonal environment. This is not a testosterone booster in the way people usually mean that phrase, but the published trial is referenced above.*
Why doesn't this include BioPerine or black pepper?
Some KSM-66 products add black pepper extract for absorption. We chose a different approach — a multi-ingredient adaptogenic formula with Maca, Ginseng, Shatavari, and cofactor vitamins. The clinical trials that evaluated KSM-66 at 600mg did not use BioPerine, and the published outcomes were observed without it.
Where should I buy ashwagandha?
Direct from YourHealthier.com for the multi-ingredient adaptogenic formula and a Certificate of Analysis available on request. Whatever you buy, confirming the label specifies a clinically studied branded extract (KSM-66® or Sensoril®) helps verify standardized withanolide content.
Go deeper
- Ashwagandha benefits: the complete guide
- Ashwagandha and cortisol: what the research shows
- Ashwagandha for sleep: mechanisms and evidence
- When to take ashwagandha — morning, night, or split?
- Ashwagandha dosage guide
- Side effects and safety
- Ashwagandha for women: hormones, cortisol, and PCOS
- Ashwagandha for men: testosterone, training, and stress
⚠️ *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. · Editorial Policy · Lab Results · Medical Reviewer
Supplement Facts
Usage
Backed by Peer-Reviewed Research
The clinical evidence cited in this product's structured data is fully traceable to peer-reviewed publications. Each study below is independently verifiable on PubMed.
⚕ Research summaries describe what researchers observed in specific study populations. They are not product claims and do not predict individual outcomes. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Cited research describes effects observed in specific study populations under specific protocols. Individual results vary. Citation of clinical research does not constitute disease claims. Editorial policy
Every batch is third-party tested by an independent laboratory against the specifications below. Figures shown are our product specifications and acceptance limits — request the lot-specific Certificate of Analysis for your batch's measured results.
