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Head-to-head evidence comparison — which supplement is right for you?
Ashwagandha 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
12 of 13 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
300-600mg daily (standardized extract)
Morning for daytime stress, Evening for sleep support
KSM-66 or Sensoril standardized extract
20-40mg extract (standardized to 0.5% agnuside)
Morning, Consistently at same time daily
Standardized extract (0.5% agnuside or 0.6% aucubin)
2-4 weeks
2-4 weeks
2-4 weeks
First week
1-3 cycles
2-3 cycles
1-2 cycles
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.
Vitex agnus-castus in premenstrual syndrome: A meta-analysis of double-blind randomised controlled trials
Complementary Therapies in Medicine (2019) · Meta analysis · n=1878
Vitex significantly reduced overall PMS symptom scores vs placebo
Herbal medicine for depression and anxiety: A systematic review with assessment of potential psycho-oncologic relevance
Phytotherapy research : PTR (2018) · Systematic review
Overall, 45% of studies reported positive findings with fewer adverse effects compared with conventional medications.
A Critical Approach to Evaluating Clinical Efficacy, Adverse Events and Drug Interactions of Herbal Remedies
Phytotherapy research : PTR (2016) · Review
A critical evaluation of the clinical data regarding the adverse effects has shown that herbal remedies are generally better tolerated than synthetic medications.
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-analysis of RCTs showing large effect size. Most effective for irritability, mood swings, and breast tenderness. Standardized extracts (Ze 440, BNO 1095) had strongest evidence. High heterogeneity noted between studies.
AI-estimated from published studies. Interpret as directional guidance.
Ashwagandha has a higher evidence score (7.5/10 vs 7/10) and wins in 2 of 3 categories.
For testosterone & cortisol balance, Vitex has a higher relevance score (92 vs 78).
No known interactions between Ashwagandha and Vitex have been documented in our database. However, always consult a healthcare provider before combining supplements.