The Claim

Ashwagandha root extract reduces cortisol levels by up to 30% in humans over a 60-day period.

What the research says

Supports is higher

Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.

Supports
78score
Challenges
0score

These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.

Quantitative
1 study reviewed
In plain English

Taking Ashwagandha root extract for 60 days lowers cortisol levels in humans by up to 30%.

See the scientific wording

Ashwagandha root extract reduces cortisol levels by up to 30% in humans over a 60-day period.

Why this might work

Active compounds in Ashwagandha enter the brain and calm overactive stress signals in the hypothalamus, which tells the pituitary gland to stop releasing a hormone that triggers the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. As a result, the adrenal glands release less cortisol into the blood.

Verified mechanismbased on 2 studies

What the research says

1 study
  1. Study: Efficacy and safety of Ashwagandha root extract sustained-release (AshwaSR) capsules in healthy adult, stressed subjects: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, 3-arm clinical trial

    Taking a specific Ashwagandha supplement daily for two months lowered the stress hormone cortisol by about 19% in stressed adults — which supports the idea that it can reduce cortisol, though not quite as much as the highest claim suggests.

Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies

Fit Body Science verdict — we translate health claims into clear verdicts backed by peer-reviewed research.

Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.