Stack Genius ingredient guide
Ksm-66
KSM-66 is a proprietary, root-only ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract standardized to at least 5% withanolides and backed by multiple published clinical trials.
Overview
KSM-66 is a trademarked ashwagandha extract manufactured by Ixoreal Biomed in India, made exclusively from the root of the Withania somnifera plant using a proprietary water-based extraction process. Standardized to at least 5% withanolides by HPLC, it has become one of the most heavily studied branded botanical ingredients in the modern supplement market.
You will find KSM-66 called out by name in stress-support, sleep, mood, energy, hormonal, and cognitive supplement formulas. Because it is a branded ingredient, brands that use it license the material and typically pay a premium to display the KSM-66 logo on their label, which is one way consumers verify authenticity.
The reason KSM-66 has gained so much shelf space is that dozens of human clinical trials have been conducted using this specific extract, so formulators can point to research on the exact material in the bottle. That said, evidence quality varies by study, and "clinically studied" does not automatically mean every claim on a finished product label is proven.
Key takeaways
- KSM-66 is a branded, root-only ashwagandha extract standardized to at least 5% withanolides.
- It has been used in dozens of published human clinical trials of varying quality.
- Authentic KSM-66 products display the trademark and typically list the exact daily dose used in research.
Practical guidance
What to know before adding Ksm-66
Evidence snapshot
KSM-66 has been evaluated in trials on stress, sleep, exercise performance, testosterone, and cognition, with many studies reporting positive results. Reviewers note that most trials are industry-funded and range from small to moderate in size, so independent replication and larger trials continue to build the picture. NCCIH advises weighing clinical claims against overall evidence quality.
What to look for on the label
Look for the KSM-66 name and logo, the exact milligram dose per serving (300 mg or 600 mg per day are common research doses), and confirmation that the extract is derived from ashwagandha root. Some brands use root and leaf blends and label them ashwagandha; those are not the same as KSM-66.
What makes a better product
The most important marker is authenticity: real KSM-66 is licensed and traceable, so products that display the trademark and provide batch documentation are more trustworthy than generic "clinically studied ashwagandha" claims. Better finished products also use doses aligned with the actual research (typically 300 mg to 600 mg per day) rather than sprinkling small amounts in a blend.
Watch-outs
Ashwagandha can affect thyroid hormone levels, blood pressure, blood sugar, and sedation. It may interact with thyroid, sedative, immunosuppressive, and antidiabetic medications. It is contraindicated in pregnancy. Some users report drowsiness, GI upset, or headaches. Autoimmune conditions warrant a clinical conversation before starting.
Dosing & Timing
Published clinical studies commonly use 300 mg twice daily or 600 mg once daily of KSM-66 for eight to twelve weeks. Some sleep-focused protocols use evening dosing, while stress and cognitive protocols often use morning or split dosing. It can be taken with or without food.
Safety and interaction context
Generally well tolerated at studied doses. Interactions include thyroid medications (may amplify effects), sedatives (may increase drowsiness), immunosuppressants, and antidiabetic drugs. Discontinue two weeks before surgery. Not recommended in pregnancy. Long-term daily use beyond one year is less well characterized in humans.
Sources
- NCCIH Herbs at a GlanceAshwagandha and herbal ingredient overview
- MedlinePlus Dietary SupplementsConsumer safety context
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