An herbal supplement studied for stress — evidence is limited and short-term
💆 StressBy the Bloom Health Woman editorial team · Last updated October 2026 · Educational information, not medical advice. This page contains an affiliate link (see the product box). How we create content
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an herbal root extract that has been studied for stress and anxiety. A small 2012 placebo-controlled trial in adults using a branded root extract reported lower perceived-stress scores and lower blood cortisol after 60 days. Other trials are generally small and short, results vary by product, and long-term safety is not well established. Stress can affect the menstrual cycle in some people, but there is no good evidence that ashwagandha improves fertility or cycle regularity.
People interested in stress management. Not a replacement for care if you have anxiety, depression, burnout or thyroid disease. Whether it suits you depends on your health, medicines and test results — ask a clinician.
Studies have used roughly 300–600 mg of root extract daily, usually for 8–12 weeks. Products vary widely. This is not a recommendation. Doses vary by product and person; this is not personal medical advice.
Trials typically measured effects after about 8–12 weeks. Many people notice no change.
Stomach upset, drowsiness and headache have been reported. Rare cases of liver injury have been reported — stop and seek care for yellow skin/eyes, dark urine or severe stomach pain.
Avoid during pregnancy. Talk to a clinician first if you take thyroid medicines or have a thyroid condition (ashwagandha may affect thyroid hormone levels). Many clinicians advise stopping about 2 weeks before surgery.
Evidence level (our editorial summary, not a formal grading): Limited to moderate.
Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless a clinician advises otherwise.
Medication interactions: May interact with thyroid medicines, sedatives, immunosuppressants, and diabetes or blood-pressure medicines.
Talk to a healthcare professional before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, planning pregnancy, have a medical condition, take any medicine, or are scheduled for surgery. Dietary supplements are not approved by the FDA for safety or effectiveness before they are sold, and quality varies between products.
Reliable sources to check: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements fact sheets · NCCIH Herbs at a Glance · MedlinePlus Herbs & Supplements · FDA — Dietary Supplements
Optional product link. We have not tested this product and its inclusion is not a medical recommendation or an endorsement of any brand.
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