Ashwagandha: What It Is, Forms, Cautions, and Clean Brands

Ashwagandha is an herb from the Ayurvedic tradition, classed as an adaptogen. It supports a healthy response to everyday stress and restful sleep.*

Forms and what to look for on the label

Root-only extracts and full-spectrum extracts (like KSM-66) versus root-and-leaf extracts (like Sensoril). Labels should state the withanolide percentage.

Before you take it

Skip it if you’re pregnant. Talk to your doctor first if you have a thyroid condition or an autoimmune condition, or you take sedatives. Rare liver reactions have been reported.