Side-by-side comparison of mechanisms, dosing, interactions, and stacking potential.
| Ashwagandha (KSM-66) | Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Adaptogens | Adaptogens |
| Standard Dose | 600mg KSM-66 daily (300mg 2x/day) | — |
| Timing | Morning and evening with meals. Evening dose supports sleep quality via cortisol reduction. | — |
| Cycle Duration | Cycle 8-12 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off (to prevent adaptogenic tolerance) | — |
| Evidence Level | strong_human | Moderate |
Ashwagandha's primary bioactives are withanolides (particularly withaferin A and withanolide D). KSM-66 is a full-spectrum root extract standardized to >5% withanolides. It modulates the HPA axis by reducing cortisol output (20-30% reduction in trials), likely through GABAergic activity (withanolides are GABA-mimetic at GABA-A receptors) and by normalizing cortisol receptor (GR) sensitivity. It also inhibits the NMDA-induced neurotoxicity pathway, enhances DHEA-S production, promotes thyroid function (increases T4 to T3 conversion), upregulates antioxidant enzymes (SOD, catalase, glutathione peroxidase), and has demonstrated sirtuin-activating properties.
600mg KSM-66 daily (300mg 2x/day)
Morning and evening with meals. Evening dose supports sleep quality via cortisol reduction.
Cycle 8-12 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off (to prevent adaptogenic tolerance)
Contains cycloastragenol and astragaloside IV which activate telomerase (hTERT). Adaptogenic — modulates immune function, reduces inflammation, and supports cardiovascular health. Used in traditional Chinese medicine for Qi tonification.
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