“3,000 years of Ayurvedic wisdom, validated by modern science.”
Known in Ayurveda as 'Balya' (strengthening) — the 'smell of the horse' for the vitality it bestows. Used for 3,000+ years as a Rasayana (rejuvenation) herb.
Ashwagandha is the most studied adaptogen in history — used in Ayurvedic medicine for 3,000 years and now backed by dozens of clinical trials. KSM-66 is the specific extract with the most research: full-spectrum root, not leaf. It's the extract used in the trials showing 30% cortisol reduction. Momentous uses KSM-66 exclusively.
KSM-66 extract — the specific form used in most clinical trials
Full-spectrum root extract, not cheaper leaf extract
30% cortisol reduction documented in randomized controlled trials
NSF Certified for Sport — verified purity and potency
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) modulates the HPA axis, reducing cortisol production at the adrenal level. KSM-66 trials show: 30% reduction in serum cortisol, 72% reduction in anxiety scores (HAM-A scale), improved sleep quality (SOL reduced by 40%), and enhanced VO2 max in athletes. The withanolides are the primary active compounds.
From the sources we read every week for our concierge recommendations.
Examine.com
“Research Breakdown on Ashwagandha - Examine”
Withania somnifera (of the family solanaceae) is a highly esteemed medicinal herb in Ayurveda and most popularized as Ashwagandha although other common names include the King of Ayurveda,[[49]](https://examine.com/supplements/ashwagandha/research/#ref-49)[[50]](https://examine.com/supplements/ashwagandha/research/#ref-50) Indian Ginseng (not at all related to panax ginseng), and Wintercherry.[[51]](https://examine.com/supplements/ashwagandha/research/#ref-51) The herb is classified as rasayana in ayurvedic medicine due to being a general tonic and in modern terms it is called an adaptogen for similar reasons,[[52]](https://examine.com/supplements/ashwagandha/research/#ref-52) and is also classified as bhalya (Increases strength) and vajikara (aphrodisiac).[[53]](https://examine.com/supplements/ashwagandha/research/#ref-53) The name Ashwagandha comes from the translation 'Smell of Horse', which is thought to be due to two main reasons; the root itself smells like a horse, and the root is supposed to imbibe you with the strength and virility of a horse.[[54]](https://examine.com/supplements/ashwagandha/research/#ref-54) Beyond those uses, it has been traditional used as an analgesic, astringent, antispasmodic, and immunostimulant while being used to treat inflammation, cancer, stress, fatigue, diabetes, and cardiovascular complications[[55]](https://examine.com/supplements/ashwagandha/research/#ref-55)[[56]](https://examine.com/supplements/ashwagandha/research/#ref-56) while its adaptogenic usage is emphazied for persons with stress related insomnia, debility, and nervous exhaustion.[[57]](https://examine.com/supplements/ashwagandha/research/#ref-57) Ashwagandha has also been reported to be an immunostimulant compound, with particular emphasis for a stress-related suppression in immunity.[[57]](https://examine.com/supplements/ashwagandha/research/#ref-57) Ashwagandha is a highly esteemed medicinal plant in traditional Indian medicine for a wide variety of ailments but usually focused on stress, immune support (with regards to stress), anxiety and depression (again in regards to stress) and the treatment of cancer and inflammation; historically, it boasts low toxicity when consumed as the root extract alongside food 1.2 Composition Ashwagandha (roots unless otherwise specified) tends to include:
read the source →Take 600mg (one capsule) daily with food. Morning or evening — both work. Effects build over 4–8 weeks of consistent use. Cycle 8 weeks on, 2 weeks off is a common approach.
Who it's for
Anyone dealing with chronic stress, elevated cortisol, poor sleep from an overactive mind, or exercise recovery issues. Not for acute stress moments — benefits accumulate over 4–8 weeks.
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