Ashwagandha is an ancient herb that's become one of the most talked-about supplement ingredients for stress and sleep. This article looks at what ashwagandha is, how it relates to the body's stress response and to sleep, what the KSM-66 extract is, and what makes a good ashwagandha supplement.
What is ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha (botanical name Withania somnifera) is a small shrub whose root has been used in Ayurveda, the traditional system of medicine from India, for thousands of years. It's often described as an adaptogen, a term used for herbs traditionally taken to help the body cope with stress.
Most of the interest today centres on the root extract, which is the part with the longest traditional use and the most modern research behind it.
Ashwagandha and the stress response
Stress is a normal part of life, and the body has a built-in system for handling it. When you're under pressure, your body releases hormones, including cortisol, often called the body's main stress hormone, to help you respond. The catch is that modern life can keep that system switched on more than it was designed for, which is where feeling frazzled, wired or worn out tends to creep in.
Ashwagandha has traditionally been used to support the body through periods of stress, and it's studied for its role in supporting a healthy stress response and relieving the symptoms of everyday stress.
Ashwagandha and sleep
Stress and sleep are closely linked: a busy, switched-on mind is one of the most common reasons people struggle to wind down at night, and poor sleep then makes the next day's stress harder to handle. It can turn into a bit of a loop.
Because of its calming, stress-supporting reputation, ashwagandha is also associated with sleep, and it's studied for its role in supporting sleep quality.
What is KSM-66?
If you've seen "KSM-66" on a label and wondered what it means, it's a branded form of ashwagandha. KSM-66 is a full-spectrum ashwagandha root extract and one of the most researched forms used in supplements.
The advantage of a standardised extract like this is consistency: you know each serve contains a defined, repeatable amount of the active compounds, rather than a variable amount from raw powder. It's one of the markers of a well-formulated ashwagandha product.
What to look for in an ashwagandha supplement
If you're choosing between ashwagandha products, a few things separate a good one:
- A root extract, ideally a standardised one like KSM-66, rather than an unspecified ashwagandha powder.
- A clear, consistent dose per serve, so you know what you're getting.
- Made to a dependable standard, ideally somewhere with proper manufacturing oversight rather than a basic food setup.
- A format you'll actually keep up with, since these things work best taken consistently over time.
Where ashwagandha gummies fit
If you like the idea of ashwagandha but would rather not deal with capsules or the strong taste of the raw root, a gummy is an easy way to take it consistently.
Healthcarebear Ashwagandha Gummies are made with KSM-66 Ashwagandha and are formulated to:
- Support a healthy stress response in the body
- Improve sleep quality
- Relieve symptoms of stress
- Support general health and wellbeing
Ashwagandha tends to work gradually rather than instantly, so it's best taken consistently over a few weeks. You can find them on the Healthcarebear Ashwagandha Gummies page.
The bottom line
Ashwagandha is a traditional Ayurvedic herb, now widely used to support the body's stress response and sleep quality, with the root extract and standardised forms like KSM-66 being the most studied. Ashwagandha gummies are a convenient way to take it consistently, slotting easily into a daily routine.
Frequently asked questions
Do ashwagandha gummies work?
Ashwagandha gummies made with a standardised root extract are formulated to support a healthy stress response, improve sleep quality, relieve symptoms of stress, and support general health and wellbeing. Like most herbal supplements, they work best taken consistently over time.
How long does ashwagandha take to work?
It's generally taken as an ongoing supplement rather than a one-off, and many people give it a few weeks of consistent use. Individual responses vary.
Can I take ashwagandha for sleep?
Ashwagandha is associated with supporting sleep quality, partly through its link with the stress response. Taking it consistently tends to suit it best.
What is KSM-66?
KSM-66 is a branded, full-spectrum ashwagandha root extract and one of the most researched forms used in supplements. A standardised extract means a consistent amount of the active compounds in each serve.
How do I take them?
Follow the serve on the pack and take it consistently. If you're pregnant, breastfeeding or taking regular medication, it's worth a quick word with your pharmacist first.
Written by the Haircarebear team. Reviewed by Katie van der Mye, Innovations Manager (BA, MPRA, MM).
This article is general information only and isn't medical advice. Please speak with your health professional about your individual needs.
Sources: general overviews of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and the KSM-66 root extract; traditional use in Ayurveda; general information on stress, the stress response and sleep.