Plant Comparison

Cordyceps vs Ashwagandha

A side-by-side comparison of two medicinal plants — every documented constituent, action, use, safety note and cited source, assembled automatically from the Omnia Sana database.

First plant
Second plant
Show:
Plant ACordycepsCordyceps militarisCordycipitaceaeFull monograph →
Plant BAshwagandhaWithania somniferaSolanaceaeFull monograph →

At a glance

Cordyceps and Ashwagandha: they share 7 indicated uses (arthritis / joint pain, cold & flu, fatigue / low energy, …); 4 pharmacological actions in common.

CordycepsAshwagandha
Constituents33
Pharmacological actions48
Indicated uses814
Safety notes22
Cited sources2125
Indicated uses
Only Cordyceps
Respiratory support
Shared (7)
Arthritis / joint painCold & fluFatigue / low energyImmune supportInflammation (general)Muscle sorenessSkin irritation
Only Ashwagandha
Blood sugar / diabetes supportCancer (anticancer research)Cognitive functionFertilityInsomnia / sleeplessnessMemoryMetabolic support
Pharmacological actions
Only Cordyceps
none
Shared (4)
Anti-inflammatoryAntioxidantPhysical performance / ergogenicImmunomodulator / immune support
Only Ashwagandha
Anticancer (preclinical)Antidiabetic (blood-sugar lowering)Neuroprotective / cognition supportSedative / sleep support

Evidence face-off — shared uses

ConditionCordycepsAshwagandhaVerdict
Arthritis / joint pain5/101/10Stronger for Cordyceps
Cold & flu5/101/10Stronger for Cordyceps
Fatigue / low energy6/101/10Stronger for Cordyceps
Immune support5/101/10Stronger for Cordyceps
Inflammation (general)5/101/10Stronger for Cordyceps
Muscle soreness6/101/10Stronger for Cordyceps
Skin irritation5/101/10Stronger for Cordyceps

Evidence scores (1–10) are computed from the tier of each cited source. “Comparable” means the two scores are within one point. Follow a score to its detailed sources.

Key Constituents

Cordycepin (3'-deoxyadenosine)[1]

A nucleoside analogue considered the marker bioactive compound, studied for anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and metabolic effects.

Polysaccharides[4]

Immunomodulatory and antioxidant polysaccharides, a major focus of both oral and topical product development.

Polysaccharides
Ergosterol and adenosine

Additional characteristic fungal sterol and nucleoside constituents.

Withanolides (withaferin A, withanolide A)[5]

Steroidal lactones considered the principal bioactive compounds, responsible for most of the plant's adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory and anticancer research interest.

Withanolides
Alkaloids (withanine, somniferine)[5]

Minor tropane-type alkaloids contributing to the traditional sedative reputation.

Alkaloids
Sitoindosides and saponins[5]

Glycowithanolides linked to adaptogenic and immunomodulatory activity.

Saponins

Pharmacological Actions

Anti-inflammatory[12, 15, 16]
Antioxidant[4, 7, 15, 16]
Physical performance / ergogenic[15, 16]

Physical performance / strength improvement

Immunomodulator / immune support[4, 6, 7, 8, 11, 14, 15, 16]
Anti-inflammatory[5, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]
Anticancer (preclinical)[11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]
Antidiabetic (blood-sugar lowering)[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]
Antioxidant[6, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]
Physical performance / ergogenic[8, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]

Physical performance / strength improvement

Immunomodulator / immune support[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]
Neuroprotective / cognition support[2, 6, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]
Sedative / sleep support[1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]

Traditional & Indicated Uses

Arthritis / joint pain[15, 16]Moderate · 5/10

inferred from anti-inflammatory action

Evidence: 5
Label: Arthritis / joint pain
Cold & flu[15, 16]Moderate · 5/10

inferred from immunomodulator action

Evidence: 5
Label: Cold & flu
Fatigue / low energy[15, 16, 17]Moderate · 6/10

inferred from ergogenic action

Evidence: 6
Label: Fatigue / low energy
Immune support[15, 16]Moderate · 5/10
Evidence: 5
Label: Immune support
Inflammation (general)[15, 16]Moderate · 5/10

inferred from anti-inflammatory action

Evidence: 5
Label: Inflammation (general)
Muscle soreness[15, 16, 17]Moderate · 6/10

inferred from ergogenic action

Evidence: 6
Label: Muscle soreness
Respiratory support[15, 16, 17]Moderate · 6/10
Evidence: 6
Label: Respiratory support
Skin irritation[15, 16]Moderate · 5/10

inferred from anti-inflammatory action

Evidence: 5
Label: Skin irritation
Arthritis / joint pain[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]Traditional · 1/10

inferred from anti-inflammatory action

Evidence: 1
Label: Arthritis / joint pain
Blood sugar / diabetes support[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]Traditional · 1/10

inferred from antidiabetic action

Evidence: 1
Label: Blood sugar / diabetes support
Cancer (anticancer research)[11]Good · 7/10

inferred from anticancer action

Evidence: 7
Label: Cancer (anticancer research)
Cognitive function[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]Traditional · 1/10

inferred from neuroprotective action

Evidence: 1
Label: Cognitive function
Cold & flu[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]Traditional · 1/10

inferred from immunomodulator action

Evidence: 1
Label: Cold & flu
Fatigue / low energy[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]Traditional · 1/10

inferred from ergogenic action

Evidence: 1
Label: Fatigue / low energy
Fertility[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]Traditional · 1/10
Evidence: 1
Label: Fertility
Immune support[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]Traditional · 1/10
Evidence: 1
Label: Immune support
Inflammation (general)[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]Traditional · 1/10

inferred from anti-inflammatory action

Evidence: 1
Label: Inflammation (general)
Insomnia / sleeplessness[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]Traditional · 1/10

inferred from sedative action

Evidence: 1
Label: Insomnia / sleeplessness
Memory[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]Traditional · 1/10

inferred from neuroprotective action

Evidence: 1
Label: Memory
Metabolic support[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]Traditional · 1/10

inferred from antidiabetic action

Evidence: 1
Label: Metabolic support
Muscle soreness[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]Traditional · 1/10

inferred from ergogenic action

Evidence: 1
Label: Muscle soreness
Skin irritation[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]Traditional · 1/10

inferred from anti-inflammatory action

Evidence: 1
Label: Skin irritation

Safety, Cautions & Contraindications

Safety note[15, 16, 17]Caution

Generally well tolerated short-term in human studies, but research is still limited (Ontawong et al., 2024; Hirsch et al., 2016). Possible side effects: stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, headache (reported broadly for “Cordyceps” supplements; not everyone gets this) (Jędrejko, Lazur and Muszyńska, 2021). Avoid / use medical guidance if you have: autoimmune disease, you’re on immunosuppressants, you have a bleeding disorder, or you take blood thinners/antiplatelet drugs (theoretical interaction + caution used in reviews) (Jędrejko, Lazur and Muszyńska, 2021). Pregnancy/lactation: not enough safety data → best to avoid (Jędrejko, Lazur and Muszyńska, 2021). Quality matters: choose reputable brands with testing for contaminants and clear labeling (fruiting body vs mycelium; extract ratio) (Jędrejko et al., 2022).

Safety note[15, 16, 17, 18]Info

Duke (2002) does not include a dedicated entry for Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris) in the Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, Second Edition.

Safety note[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19]Caution

Generally well-tolerated in clinical trials at doses up to 600 mg/day for up to 12 weeks. Common side effects may include mild drowsiness, gastrointestinal upset, and diarrhea at higher doses. Contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential abortifacient effects. May interact with sedatives, immunosuppressants, thyroid medications, and blood sugar medications. People with autoimmune diseases, hyperthyroidism, or scheduled for surgery should consult healthcare providers before use. May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Not recommended for children without medical supervision.

Safety note[12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20]Caution

Duke (2002) classifies ashwagandha activities primarily at the experimental level (score 1), with adaptogenic, sedative, immunostimulant, and anti-inflammatory actions demonstrated in animal and in vitro models. Root preparations are used at 2–3 g powdered root three times daily, or 150–300 mg of standardized extract. Importantly, the plant has documented abortifacient and antifertility properties in animal studies, and its use should be avoided during pregnancy. It may potentiate the effects of barbiturates and sedatives (Duke, 2002).

External Ids

Gbif: 7567077
Wikidata: Q2118699
Gbif: 2928840
Wikidata: Q852660

Botanical Description

Entomopathogenic fungus (not a true plant) that develops from a mycelium infecting and consuming an insect host - classically a moth caterpillar or pupa buried in the soil. In late season it produces a slender, bright orange, club-shaped fruiting body (stroma) that emerges from the ground above the mummified host, its surface minutely roughened with embedded spore-producing structures.[4]

Height: Fruiting body 2-8 cm
Habit: Entomopathogenic fungus, fruiting body emerging from a buried insect host
Leaves: Not applicable (fungus)
Flowers: Not applicable (fungus)
Stem: Slender, bright orange, club-shaped fruiting body (stroma)
Root: Anchored to the mummified insect host below ground
Fruit: Minutely roughened fertile head bearing embedded perithecia (spore-producing structures)
Flowering Period: Fruiting body typically appears in autumn

Erect, branching perennial shrub with soft, downy, oval to lance-shaped leaves. Small, inconspicuous, greenish-yellow bell-shaped flowers are borne in the leaf axils, followed by a small orange-red berry enclosed in a papery, lantern-like calyx, giving rise to the name 'winter cherry'.[5]

Height: 0.3-1.5 m
Habit: Erect, branching perennial shrub
Leaves: Soft, downy, oval to lance-shaped
Flowers: Small, inconspicuous, greenish-yellow, bell-shaped
Stem: Erect, branching, downy
Root: Long, thick, tapering, pale brown root (the medicinal part), aromatic with a distinctive horse-like smell (the source of the name ashwagandha)
Fruit: Small orange-red berry enclosed in a papery, lantern-like calyx
Flowering Period: Summer to autumn

Habitat

Grows on insect larvae and pupae in cool, moist forest soils and grassland across temperate and alpine East Asia; commercially, most Cordyceps militaris is now cultivated on grain or insect-based substrate rather than wild-collected.[4]

Native to the drier regions of India, the Middle East and parts of Africa; cultivated in warm, semi-arid climates on well-drained soils, notably in central and western India.[5]

Harvesting

Wild fruiting bodies are dug up carefully with the insect host attached, in autumn when they emerge; cultivated material is harvested from the growing substrate once the orange fruiting bodies mature, then dried.

Parts: Whole Plant
Season: Autumn (wild); at maturity under cultivation

The root is dug in winter from plants around one year old, when withanolide content is highest, then cleaned, cut and dried; the leaves are picked through the growing season.[5]

Parts: Leaf, Root
Season: Root in winter, from around one-year-old plants; leaf through the growing season

Traditional Uses

Cordyceps has a centuries-long reputation in Chinese and Tibetan traditional medicine as a tonic ('Dong Chong Xia Cao' - winter worm, summer grass) for vitality, stamina, respiratory and kidney support, and recovery from fatigue and illness, and remains a prized adaptogenic tonic today.[15, 16]

Ashwagandha root is one of the most important rasayana (rejuvenative) tonics of Ayurvedic medicine, traditionally used to build strength and vitality, support healthy stress response, and promote restful sleep; this traditional adaptogenic reputation is now supported by clinical trials of standardised root extract for stress, sleep and physical performance.[1, 5]

Preparations

Standardised extract[4]

Cultivated fruiting-body extract, standardised to cordycepin or polysaccharide content, taken as capsules or powder.

Standardised extract[1, 5]

Root extract standardised to withanolide content, taken as capsules or tablets; the form used in most clinical stress, sleep and performance studies.

References

REF-0776, REF-0777, REF-0778, REF-2153, REF-2154, REF-2155, REF-2156, REF-2157, REF-2158, REF-2159, REF-2160, REF-2161, REF-2162, REF-2163
REF-2245, REF-2246, REF-2247, REF-2248, REF-2249, REF-2250, REF-2251, REF-2252, REF-2253, REF-2254, REF-2255

Lookalikes Review

Outcome: has-lookalikes
Reviewed By: Omnia Sana (owner-authorized)
Reviewed Date: 2026-07-07
Outcome: none-known
Reviewed By: Omnia Sana (owner-authorized)
Reviewed Date: 2026-07-07

Dangerous Lookalikes

Safety note[19, 20, 21]Fatal
Dangerous Plant: podostroma-cornu-damae
Confused Part: Bright orange-red club-shaped fruit bodies collected from the wild as a cordyceps tonic; the erect red antler-/club-like fruit bodies of poison fire coral resemble the orange clubs of Cordyceps.
Confusion Context: Cordyceps militaris produces small, bright orange, club-shaped fruit bodies and is prized as a health tonic in East Asia, where wild specimens are collected. Poison fire coral (Podostroma cornu-damae) is a deadly trichothecene-containing fungus whose erect red, antler- or coral-like clubs closely resemble Cordyceps. The Royal Society of Chemistry reports it has often been mistaken for Cordyceps sobolifera as well as two other edible mushrooms, Ganoderma lucidum and Cordyceps militaris, and forensic case reports document deaths from ingesting it (multiple organ failure, pancytopenia). Because it is confused specifically with cordyceps by foragers, this is a lethal look-alike.
Distinguishing Features: Substrate (decisive): true Cordyceps militaris grows OUT OF a buried insect - a mummified caterpillar or pupa - which you find if you dig at the base. Poison fire coral grows from soil or buried wood and roots, never from an insect host., Form: Cordyceps militaris is a small (about 2-8 cm) simple or sparingly branched orange club with a minutely roughened fertile head. Poison fire coral forms deeper blood-red, often branched antler- or coral-like clubs., Colour: Cordyceps militaris is orange to orange-red; poison fire coral is a brighter blood-red.
Key Test: Dig up the base. True Cordyceps militaris emerges from a buried insect (a caterpillar or pupa) - the mummified host is the proof. A red or orange club or antler arising from soil or wood with NO insect host, especially if branched and blood-red, may be poison fire coral (Podostroma cornu-damae), which can kill. If there is no insect host, do not consume it; confirm with an expert.
Reviewed By: Omnia Sana (owner-authorized)
Reviewed Date: 2026-07-07

Not documented

Dosage

Not documented

Standardised extract[1]

Clinical trials for stress and sleep commonly use around 300-600 mg of standardised root extract daily, in divided doses, over several weeks. Educational reference only, not a prescription.

Drug Class Interactions

Not documented

Safety note[21, 22]Caution
Drug Class: thyroid-medicines
Mechanism: Ashwagandha can raise circulating thyroid hormone (T3/T4) and lower TSH; a randomized trial normalised thyroid indices in subclinical hypothyroidism and a case of thyrotoxicosis has been reported. Combined with thyroid medication it may add to thyroid activity, so monitor thyroid levels.
Reviewed By: Omnia Sana (owner-authorized)
Reviewed Date: 2026-07-03
Safety note[1, 23, 24]Caution
Drug Class: sedatives-cns-depressants
Mechanism: Ashwagandha has sedative, GABA-related calming activity (a meta-analysis of randomised trials found it improves sleep); taken with sedatives, sleeping tablets or other central-nervous-system depressants it may add to drowsiness and slowed reactions.
Reviewed By: Omnia Sana (owner-authorized)
Reviewed Date: 2026-07-03
Safety note[25]Caution
Drug Class: antidiabetics
Mechanism: Ashwagandha can lower blood glucose; combined with diabetes medicines it may add to blood-sugar lowering and increase the risk of hypoglycaemia, so monitor blood sugar.
Reviewed By: Omnia Sana (owner-authorized)
Reviewed Date: 2026-07-03

Pairings

Not documented

Both ashwagandha and valerian are calming, sleep-promoting herbs; using them together may add to drowsiness and sedation, so take care especially before driving or when using other sedatives.[1, 23]

Partner Id: valeriana-officinalis
Type: caution
Reviewed By: Omnia Sana (owner-authorized)
Reviewed Date: 2026-07-03

Ashwagandha and kava both calm the central nervous system; combining them may add to sedation and drowsiness, so combined use warrants caution.[1, 23]

Partner Id: piper-methysticum
Type: caution
Reviewed By: Omnia Sana (owner-authorized)
Reviewed Date: 2026-07-03

References & Sources

  1. Lan, T., Yu, Y., Zhang, J., Li, H. et al (2021) 'Cordycepin Ameliorates Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis by Activation of the AMP-Activated Protein Kinase Signaling Pathway', Hepatology, 74(2), pp. 686-703. doi:10.1002/hep.31749 Preclinical
    https://doi.org/10.1002/hep.31749
  2. Wei, P., Wang, K., Luo, C., Huang, Y. et al (2021) 'Cordycepin confers long-term neuroprotection via inhibiting neutrophil infiltration and neuroinflammation after traumatic brain injury', Journal of Neuroinflammation, 18(1), pp. 137. doi:10.1186/s12974-021-02188-x Preclinical
    https://doi.org/10.1186/s12974-021-02188-x
  3. Tan, L., Song, X., Ren, Y., Wang, M. et al (2020) 'Anti-inflammatory effects of cordycepin: A review', Phytotherapy Research. doi:10.1002/ptr.6890 Traditional / reference
    https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.6890
  4. Kanlayavattanakul, M. and Lourith, N (2023) 'Cordyceps militaris polysaccharides: preparation and topical product application', Fungal Biology and Biotechnology, 10(1), pp. 3. doi:10.1186/s40694-023-00150-5 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.1186/s40694-023-00150-5
  5. Yang, W., Fu, C., Hu, B., Yan, Y. and Cheng, Y (2024) 'Five undescribed cyclopeptides from Cordyceps militaris', Phytochemistry, 222, pp. 114074. doi:10.1016/j.phytochem.2024.114074 Preclinical
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phytochem.2024.114074
  6. Miao, M., Yu, W., Li, Y., Sun, Y. and Guo, S (2022) 'Structural elucidation and activities of Cordyceps militaris-derived polysaccharides: a review', Frontiers in Nutrition, 9, pp. 898674. doi:10.3389/fnut.2022.898674 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2022.898674
  7. Jedrejko, K.J., Lazur, J. and Muszynska, B (2021) 'Cordyceps militaris: an overview of its chemical constituents in relation to biological activity', Foods, 10(11), pp. 2634. doi:10.3390/foods10112634 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10112634
  8. Malucka, L.U., Uhrinova, A. and Lysinova, P (2022) 'Medicinal mushrooms Ophiocordyceps sinensis and Cordyceps militaris', Ceska a Slovenska Farmacie, 71(6), pp. 259-265. doi:10.5817/csf2022-5-259 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.5817/csf2022-5-259
  9. Sun, J., Jin, M., Zhou, W., Diao, S., Zhou, Y., Li, S., Wang, X., Pan, S., Jin, X. and Li, G (2017) 'A new ribonucleotide from Cordyceps militaris', Natural Product Research, 31(21), pp. 2537-2543. doi:10.1080/14786419.2017.1323210 Preclinical
    https://doi.org/10.1080/14786419.2017.1323210
  10. Choi, E., Oh, J. and Sung, G.H (2020) 'Antithrombotic and antiplatelet effects of Cordyceps militaris', Mycobiology, 48(3), pp. 228-232. doi:10.1080/12298093.2020.1763115 Preclinical
    https://doi.org/10.1080/12298093.2020.1763115
  11. Zhang, J., Wen, C., Duan, Y., Zhang, H. and Ma, H (2019) 'Advance in Cordyceps militaris (Linn) Link polysaccharides: isolation, structure, and bioactivities: a review', International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 132, pp. 906-914. doi:10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2019.04.020 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2019.04.020
  12. Chiu, C.P., Liu, S.C., Tang, C.H., Chan, Y., El-Shazly, M., Lee, C.L., Du, Y.C., Wu, T.Y., Chang, F.R. and Wu, Y.C (2016) 'Anti-inflammatory cerebrosides from cultivated Cordyceps militaris', Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 64(7), pp. 1540-1548. doi:10.1021/acs.jafc.5b05931 Preclinical
    https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jafc.5b05931
  13. Chamyuang, S., Owatworakit, A. and Honda, Y (2019) 'New insights into cordycepin production in Cordyceps militaris and applications', Annals of Translational Medicine, 7(Suppl 3), pp. S78. doi:10.21037/atm.2019.04.12 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.21037/atm.2019.04.12
  14. Cui, J.D (2015) 'Biotechnological production and applications of Cordyceps militaris, a valued traditional Chinese medicine', Critical Reviews in Biotechnology, 35(4), pp. 475-484. doi:10.3109/07388551.2014.900604 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.3109/07388551.2014.900604
  15. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (n.d.). Available at: https://powo.science.kew.org Traditional / reference
    https://powo.science.kew.org
  16. Zhu, J.S., Halpern, G.M. and Jones, K (1998) 'The scientific rediscovery of a precious ancient Chinese herbal regimen: Cordyceps sinensis', 4(3), pp. 289--303. doi:10.1089/acm.1998.4.429 Randomized trial
    https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.1998.4.429
  17. Hirsch, K.R., Smith-Ryan, A.E., Roelofs, E.J., Trexler, E.T. and Mock, M.G (2017) 'Cordyceps militaris improves tolerance to high-intensity exercise after acute and chronic supplementation', 14(1), pp. 42--53. doi:10.1080/19390211.2016.1203386 Randomized trial
    https://doi.org/10.1080/19390211.2016.1203386
  18. Duke, J.A (2002) 'Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, Second Edition'. Traditional / reference
    https://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=Handbook%20of%20Medicinal%20Herbs%2C%20Second%20Edition
  19. Chemistry World (Royal Society of Chemistry) 'Poisons leave no mushroom for error'. Available at: https://www.chemistryworld.com/opinion/poisons-leave-no-mushroom-for-error/4011376.article Traditional / reference
    https://www.chemistryworld.com/opinion/poisons-leave-no-mushroom-for-error/4011376.article
  20. Choe, S. and In, S. and Jeon, Y. and Choi, H. and Kim, S (2018) 'Identification of trichothecene-type mycotoxins in toxic mushroom Podostroma cornu-damae and biological specimens from a fatal case by LC-QTOF/MS', Forensic Science International, 291, pp. 234-244. doi:10.1016/j.forsciint.2018.08.043 Clinical study
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.forsciint.2018.08.043
  21. Ahn, J.Y. and Seok, S.J. and Song, J.E. and Choi, J.H. and Han, S.H. and Choi, J.Y. and Kim, C.O. and Song, Y.G. and Kim, J.M (2013) 'Two cases of mushroom poisoning by Podostroma cornu-damae', Yonsei Medical Journal, 54(1), pp. 265-8. doi:10.3349/ymj.2013.54.1.265 Clinical study
    https://doi.org/10.3349/ymj.2013.54.1.265
  1. Cheah, K.L., Norhayati, M.N., Husniati Yaacob, L. and Abdul Rahman, R (2021) 'Effect of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract on sleep: a systematic review and meta-analysis', PLoS One, 16(9), pp. e0257843. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0257843 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0257843
  2. Speers, A.B., Cabey, K.A., Soumyanath, A. and Wright, K.M (2021) 'Effects of Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) on stress and the stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders anxiety, depression, and insomnia', Current Neuropharmacology, 19(9), pp. 1468-1495. doi:10.2174/1570159X19666210712151556 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.2174/1570159X19666210712151556
  3. Arumugam, V., Vijayakumar, V., Balakrishnan, A., B Bhandari, R., Boopalan, D., Ponnurangam, R., Sankaralingam Thirupathy, V. and Kuppusamy, M (2024) 'Effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) on stress and anxiety: a systematic review and meta-analysis', Explore, 20(6), pp. 103062. doi:10.1016/j.explore.2024.103062 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.explore.2024.103062
  4. Lopresti, A.L., Smith, S.J., Malvi, H. and Kodgule, R (2019) 'An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study', Medicine, 98(37), pp. e17186. doi:10.1097/MD.0000000000017186 Randomized trial
    https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000017186
  5. Paul, S., Chakraborty, S., Anand, U., Dey, S., Nandy, S., Ghorai, M., Saha, S.C., Patil, M.T., Kandimalla, R. and Prockow, J (2021) 'Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Ashwagandha): a comprehensive review on ethnopharmacology, pharmacotherapeutics, biomedicinal and toxicological aspects', Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 143, pp. 112175. doi:10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112175 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112175
  6. Dar, N.J., Hamid, A. and Ahmad, M (2015) 'Pharmacologic overview of Withania somnifera, the Indian ginseng', Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences, 72(23), pp. 4445-4460. doi:10.1007/s00018-015-2012-1 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.1007/s00018-015-2012-1
  7. Pandit, S., Srivastav, A.K., Sur, T.K., Chaudhuri, S., Wang, Y. and Biswas, T.K (2024) 'Effects of Withania somnifera extract in chronically stressed adults: a randomized controlled trial', Nutrients, 16(9), pp. 1293. doi:10.3390/nu16091293 Randomized trial
    https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091293
  8. Wankhede, S., Langade, D., Joshi, K., Sinha, S.R. and Bhattacharyya, S (2015) 'Examining the effect of Withania somnifera supplementation on muscle strength and recovery: a randomized controlled trial', Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 12, pp. 43. doi:10.1186/s12970-015-0104-9 Randomized trial
    https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-015-0104-9
  9. Choudhary, D., Bhattacharyya, S. and Bose, S (2017) 'Efficacy and safety of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) root extract in improving memory and cognitive functions', Journal of Dietary Supplements, 14(6), pp. 599-612. doi:10.1080/19390211.2017.1284970 Randomized trial
    https://doi.org/10.1080/19390211.2017.1284970
  10. Tiwari, S., Gupta, S.K. and Pathak, A.K (2021) 'A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial on the effect of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera dunal.) root extract in improving cardiorespiratory endurance and recovery in healthy athletic adults', Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 272, pp. 113929. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2021.113929 Randomized trial
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2021.113929
  11. Singh, N., Yadav, S.S., Rao, A.S., Nandal, A., Kumar, S., Ganaie, S.A. and Narasihman, B (2020) 'Review on anticancerous therapeutic potential of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal', Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 270, pp. 113704. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2020.113704 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2020.113704
  12. Bonilla DA, Moreno Y, Gho C, et al. Effects of ashwagandha (2021) ';6(1):20', 6(1). Traditional / reference
    https://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=%3B6%281%29%3A20.
  13. Chandrasekhar K, Kapoor J, Anishetty S. A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. Indian J Psychol Med. 2012;34 (2012) ';34(3):255-262', 34(3). Traditional / reference
    https://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=%3B34%283%29%3A255-262.
  14. Downer S, Berkowitz SA, Harlan TS, et al. Ashwagandha (2023) ';10:1043034'. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10147008/ Traditional / reference
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10147008/
  15. Lopresti AL, Drummond PD, Smith SJ. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study examining the hormonal and vitality effects of ashwagandha (2019) ';13(2):1557988319835985', 13(2). Traditional / reference
    https://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=%3B13%282%29%3A1557988319835985.
  16. Lopresti AL, Smith SJ, Malvi H, Kodgule R. An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (2019) ';98(37):e17186', 98(37). Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6979308/ Traditional / reference
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6979308/
  17. National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. Ashwagandha: Is it helpful for stress, anxiety, or sleep? Health Professional Fact Sheet. 2024. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Ashwagandha-HealthProfessional/ (2024) 'https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Ashwagandha-HealthProfessional/'. Available at: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Ashwagandha-HealthProfessional/ Traditional / reference
    https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Ashwagandha-HealthProfessional/
  18. Salve J, Pate S, Debnath K, Langade D. Adaptogenic and anxiolytic effects of ashwagandha root extract in healthy adults: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study. Cureus. 2019;11 (2019) ';11(12):e6466', 11(12). Traditional / reference
    https://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=%3B11%2812%29%3Ae6466.
  19. Singh N, Bhalla M, de Jager P, Gilca M. An overview on ashwagandha: A Rasayana (2011) ';8(5 Suppl):208-213'. Traditional / reference
    https://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=%3B8%285%20Suppl%29%3A208-213.
  20. Duke, J.A (2002) 'Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, Second Edition'. Traditional / reference
    https://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=Handbook%20of%20Medicinal%20Herbs%2C%20Second%20Edition
  21. Sharma, A.K., Basu, I. and Singh, S (2018) 'Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha Root Extract in Subclinical Hypothyroid Patients: A Double-Blind, Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial', Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 24(3), pp. 243-248. doi:10.1089/acm.2017.0183 Randomized trial
    https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2017.0183
  22. Gannon, J.M., Forrest, P.E. and Roy Chengappa, K.N (2014) 'Subtle changes in thyroid indices during a placebo-controlled study of an extract of Withania somnifera in persons with bipolar disorder', Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 5(4), pp. 241-245. doi:10.4103/0975-9476.146566 Clinical study
    https://doi.org/10.4103/0975-9476.146566
  23. Caus, M.N., Lupoae, M. and Chitescu, C.L (2026) 'Efficacy and Safety of Herbal Supplements with Anxiolytic, Antidepressant, and Sedative Action: A Review of Clinical Data and Toxicological Risks', Pharmaceuticals, 19(3), pp. 399. doi:10.3390/ph19030399 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19030399
  24. Cheah, K.L., Norhayati, M.N., Husniati Yaacob, L. and Abdul Rahman, R (2021) 'Effect of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract on sleep: a systematic review and meta-analysis', PLoS One, 16(9), pp. e0257843. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0257843 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0257843
  25. Makhlouf, E.A., AlamElDeen, Y.K., El-Shiekh, R.A. and Okba, M.M (2024) 'Unveilling the antidiabetic potential of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera L.) and its withanolides - a review', Natural Product Research, 39(24), pp. 7203-7218. doi:10.1080/14786419.2024.2439009 Meta-analysis / review
    https://doi.org/10.1080/14786419.2024.2439009

Generated automatically from the Omnia Sana plant database and its cited sources. For educational purposes only — not medical advice. Always consult a qualified practitioner before using medicinal plants.