What is the recommended dosage for Ashwagandha?

General: 300-600 mg/day root extract (standardized to 5% withanolides)

What are the side effects of Ashwagandha?

Potential side effects include: Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea), Drowsiness at higher doses, Rare cases of liver injury reported, May increase thyroid hormone levels.

Can ashwagandha help with stress-related hair loss?

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an adaptogen that may help manage cortisol levels associated with chronic stress. Since elevated cortisol can push hair follicles into the telogen (resting) phase prematurely, ashwagandha's stress-modulating properties may indirectly support hair retention during stressful periods. Clinical evidence for direct hair growth effects is limited. Consult your healthcare provider.

What dosage of ashwagandha is studied for stress-related hair loss?

Most clinical trials on ashwagandha use 300–600 mg of standardized root extract daily, typically as KSM-66 (5% withanolides) or Sensoril (10% withanolides). A 60-day RCT with 64 participants found that 300 mg twice daily significantly reduced serum cortisol and self-reported stress scores compared to placebo. Because elevated cortisol can disrupt the hair cycle, this cortisol-lowering effect may indirectly support hair retention during prolonged stress. Consult your healthcare provider to determine an appropriate dose for your situation.

How does ashwagandha compare to other adaptogens for hair health?

Among adaptogens studied for stress-related hair changes, ashwagandha has some of the strongest cortisol-modulating data, with over 5 double-blind RCTs demonstrating significant reductions in perceived stress and cortisol. Rhodiola rosea and holy basil (tulsi) are other adaptogens that may support the stress response, but hair-specific clinical trials are even more limited for these herbs. Ashwagandha also has a plausible secondary mechanism: its iron content and potential thyroid-supporting properties may benefit hair follicle nutrition. Overall, ashwagandha is the most researched adaptogen in the context of hair wellness.

Ashwagandha

herb

Also known as: Withania somnifera, Indian ginseng, Winter cherry, KSM-66

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About

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an adaptogenic herb traditionally used in Ayurveda. Research suggests it may support hair health indirectly by modulating cortisol levels and reducing stress-related hair shedding. Withanolides, its active compounds, demonstrate anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

How It Works

Withanolides modulate HPA axis activity and reduce cortisol; anti-inflammatory effects may support follicle health under chronic stress conditions.

Evidence For Conditions

Condition	Grade	Studies	Participants
Telogen Effluvium	D	1	--	View →
Stress-Related Hair Loss	D	1	--	View →

Side Effects

Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea)
Drowsiness at higher doses
Rare cases of liver injury reported
May increase thyroid hormone levels

Drug & Supplement Interactions

Thyroid medications (ashwagandha may increase thyroid hormone levels)
Sedatives and anxiolytics (additive CNS depression)
Immunosuppressants (ashwagandha may stimulate immune function)
Diabetes medications (may enhance hypoglycemic effects)

Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you take.

Related Ingredients

Curcumin Fenugreek Ginseng Green Tea Extract Horsetail Extract

Quick Facts

Dosage: General: 300-600 mg/day root extract (standardized to 5% withanolides)
Forms: capsule powder liquid
Natural Sources: Ashwagandha root
Upper Limit: Not formally established; studies use up to 1,200 mg/day
Best Time: With meals; morning or evening depending on individual response

Evidence Summary

Telogen Effluvium D

Stress-Related Hair Loss D

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.