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Head-to-head evidence comparison — which supplement is right for you?
Melatonin wins 2 of 3 categories. Both are solid choices — the best pick depends on your specific goals.
Verdict
Likely helps
14 of 14 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
Verdict
Likely helps
19 of 24 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
Shared outcomes (2)
Outcomes where both Ashwagandha and Melatonin have evidence — compare verdict strength side-by-side.
300-600mg daily (standardized extract)
Morning for daytime stress, Evening for sleep support
KSM-66 or Sensoril standardized extract
0.5-1mg
30-60 minutes before bed
Immediate-release tablet or sublingual
2-4 weeks
2-4 weeks
2-4 weeks
First week
Same night
1-3 days
Next morning
First week
Effects of Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) on stress and anxiety: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Explore (NY) (2024) · Meta analysis · n=873
Significant effect on the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) (MD = -4.72, 95 % CI = [-8.45 to -0.99]).
Effects of Withania somnifera Extract in Chronically Stressed Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Nutrients (2024) · Rct · n=131
Our findings demonstrate the stress-reduction capabilities of this well-characterized aqueous extract of WS (root and leaf) at the low dose of 125 mg/day, in a dose-dependent manner, via the modulation of the HPA axis.
Plant-derived nootropics and human cognition: A systematic review
Critical reviews in food science and nutrition (2023) · Systematic review
Bacopa monnieri improves language, learning and memory.
Melatonin in cancer treatment
The Cochrane database of systematic reviews (2025) · Meta analysis · n=126
We downgraded the certainty of the evidence because of high risk of bias, small sample size, the width of the 95% confidence interval, and indirectness due to inadequate reporting of cancer type.
Comparative Efficacy, Tolerability, and Acceptability of Donanemab, Lecanemab, Aducanumab, Melatonin, and Aerobic Exercise for a Short Time on Cognitive Function in Mild Cognitive Impairment and Mild Alzheimer's Disease: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Journal of Alzheimer's disease : JAD (2024) · Meta analysis · n=4599
Melatonin may be a better potential disease-modifying treatment for cognitive decline in mild AD and MCI.
Melatonin for sleep disorders in people with autism: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry (2023) · Meta analysis · n=595
According to the global analysis, the wake after sleep onset and night awakening parameters were not statistically significant.
Based on meta-analysis showing significant HAM-A score reduction (p=0.0007) and RCT evidence at 125mg dose. High heterogeneity (I2=98%) in pooled analysis suggests variable response. Extract standardization affects bioavailability.
Based on meta-analyses showing 7-12 minute reduction in sleep onset. Higher doses showed diminishing returns and increased morning grogginess. Sublingual forms may be more effective at lower doses.
AI-estimated from published studies. Interpret as directional guidance.
Melatonin has a higher evidence score (8.5/10 vs 7.5/10) and wins in 2 of 3 categories.
For fix sleep schedule / jet lag, Melatonin has a higher relevance score (98 vs 60).
No known interactions between Ashwagandha and Melatonin have been documented in our database. However, always consult a healthcare provider before combining supplements.