Ashwagandha (KSM-66®)

Ashwagandha (KSM-66®)

Overview
KSM-66® is a full-spectrum extract of Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) root, produced using a proprietary extraction process that retains the natural balance of the plant’s active compounds, particularly withanolides. It is one of the most clinically studied forms of ashwagandha and has demonstrated benefits for stress reduction, hormonal balance, cognitive performance, endurance, and sexual wellness. Typical clinical doses range from 300–600 mg per day, taken once or twice daily over 8–12 weeks.

Stress and Cortisol Reduction
KSM-66® has been shown to significantly reduce perceived stress and serum cortisol levels. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, adults experiencing chronic stress took 300 mg twice daily for 60 days and showed a 27–32% reduction in serum cortisol and marked improvement in anxiety and fatigue scores compared to placebo (Chandrasekhar et al., Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, 2012). These results have been replicated across multiple studies confirming its adaptogenic properties and support for emotional resilience.

Cognitive and Physical Performance
Clinical trials indicate that KSM-66® improves memory, focus, and reaction time while also enhancing endurance and muscle strength. In one 8-week study on healthy adults, 600 mg/day improved cardiorespiratory endurance and reduced perceived exertion during exercise (Choudhary et al., Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 2015). A separate study reported improved memory and cognitive performance with 300 mg twice daily (Choudhary et al., Journal of Dietary Supplements, 2017).

Hormonal and Sexual Wellness
KSM-66® supports healthy reproductive hormone levels and sexual function in both men and women. In men, studies show increases in serum testosterone, sperm count, and motility (Ambiye et al., Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2013). In women, supplementation has been shown to enhance arousal, lubrication, and satisfaction while reducing stress and fatigue (Dongre et al., Cureus, 2021). These effects are attributed to the herb’s adaptogenic influence on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and its ability to restore balance under stress.

Menopausal and Hormonal Balance
Emerging data suggest that ashwagandha’s adaptogenic and hormone-supportive actions can be beneficial during menopause. By helping modulate cortisol and support DHEA and thyroid hormone balance, KSM-66® contributes to improved mood, reduced fatigue, and better overall vitality in midlife women (Raut et al., Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research, 2012).

Mechanisms of Action
Ashwagandha’s withanolides and alkaloids act as adaptogens that help regulate the body’s stress response systems. KSM-66® influences GABAergic and serotonergic signaling, reduces oxidative stress, and helps maintain healthy cortisol and thyroid hormone levels, leading to improved resilience, cognition, and hormonal balance (Singh et al., Phytotherapy Research, 2011).

Safety and Tolerability
Across more than a dozen human clinical trials, KSM-66® has been well tolerated with a strong safety record. Doses up to 600 mg/day have not been associated with significant adverse effects. Reported side effects are minimal and transient, primarily mild digestive upset in a small number of participants.

Conclusion
KSM-66® ashwagandha is a clinically validated adaptogen that supports stress resilience, hormonal harmony, cognitive performance, and sexual wellness. Its ability to lower cortisol, enhance energy, and promote hormonal balance makes it a trusted botanical for maintaining wellbeing and vitality throughout every stage of life.

Key References

• Chandrasekhar, K., et al. (2012). Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, 34(3), 255–262.

• Choudhary, D., et al. (2015). Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 12(1), 43.

• Choudhary, D., et al. (2017). Journal of Dietary Supplements, 14(6), 599–612.

• Ambiye, V., et al. (2013). Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2013, 571420.

• Dongre, S., et al. (2021). Cureus, 13(11), e19220.

• Raut, A. A., et al. (2012). Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research, 38(5), 894–901.

• Singh, N., et al. (2011). Phytotherapy Research, 25(8), 1095–1102.