# Ashwagandha and rhodiola: what “adaptogen” means

What adaptogen claims mean, how the evidence differs for ashwagandha and rhodiola, and which safety questions matter.

Canonical: https://velri.co/blog/adaptogens-ashwagandha-rhodiola-caregiver-what-to-ask-provider
Publisher: Velri (https://velri.co/about)
Published: 2026-07-08
Updated: 2026-09-30
Editorial policy: https://velri.co/editorial-policy

“Adaptogen” is a loose term for a substance said to help the body cope with stress. It describes a proposed effect, not proof that a supplement works. Ashwagandha and rhodiola are different plants with different evidence behind them. [1][2]

## What the research actually shows

**Ashwagandha:** Small, short human trials have studied particular extracts for stress and sleep. Some reported improvements, but the preparations and amounts varied. A result for one extract cannot establish that every powder, gummy or blend will do the same thing. Long-term effects remain uncertain. [1]

**Rhodiola:** The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health says there is not enough reliable evidence to determine whether it is useful for any health purpose. Most human research is of low to moderate quality. Claims about steady energy or greater resilience go further than those findings support. [2]

Neither ingredient's reputation tells you much about a product that combines several herbs. The useful comparison is between the actual ingredients studied and the ingredients on the label.

## The safety questions are ingredient-specific

Ashwagandha can cause drowsiness and stomach problems. Reports have linked it to liver injury, and it may affect thyroid function. It can also interact with medicines, including sedatives and some treatments for blood pressure or diabetes. [1]

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, thyroid or autoimmune disease, and an upcoming operation are important parts of an ashwagandha safety discussion. NCCIH advises against use in these circumstances. Short-term study results do not establish safety over years. [3]

Rhodiola can cause insomnia, dizziness or headaches. Interactions with medication have been reported, and pregnancy and breastfeeding safety are poorly understood. “Natural” does not answer those questions. [2]

## What to ask about a specific product

A useful conversation with an independent licensed provider or pharmacist starts with the exact label:

- What ingredient and extract does this contain?
- Was this formulation studied for the reason I am considering it?
- Could it interact with my medicines or other supplements?
- Does my health history change the safety picture?

Those questions matter because the FDA does not approve dietary supplements before they reach the market, and supplements can interact with medicines or one another. A label's stress claim is not an FDA finding that the product is effective. [4]

## Sources
[1] Ashwagandha: Is it helpful for stress, anxiety, or sleep? - Health Professional Fact Sheet (2025). https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Ashwagandha-HealthProfessional/
[2] Rhodiola: Usefulness and Safety | NCCIH (2025). https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/rhodiola
[3] Ashwagandha: Usefulness and Safety | NCCIH (2023). https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/ashwagandha
[4] Questions and Answers on Dietary Supplements | FDA. https://www.fda.gov/food/information-consumers-using-dietary-supplements/questions-and-answers-dietary-supplements

## About this information
General health information, not personal medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. A prescription is required and is never guaranteed.
Velri is a brand operated by Velri Management LLC, a Nevada limited liability company. Velri is a non-clinical technology and administrative services company. Velri does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or pharmacy services, and does not direct the clinical judgment of any provider.
All medical consultations and prescriptions are provided directly by independent provider groups (Online Medical Care, P.C.; TMD of Kansas, P.A.; TMD of Texas, P.A.; and TMD of CA, PC), by a provider licensed in your state. Velri does not employ providers. A prescription is issued only if a provider determines it is clinically appropriate in their independent medical judgment.
All prescription products are dispensed by independent, licensed pharmacies. Velri does not own, operate, or control any pharmacy and does not dispense medication. You may opt out of using a given provider group or pharmacy at any time.
Compounded medications are not reviewed or approved by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or quality. Compounded products are not equivalent to or interchangeable with any FDA-approved brand-name drug. Availability varies by state.
Velri is cash-pay. We do not bill Medicare, Medicaid, or commercial insurance. Refunds and order problems are addressed in the Terms of Use; your rights under applicable law are not limited. State availability and clinical eligibility apply.
Velri and telehealth are not for medical emergencies. If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Care is available to eligible adults 18 and older in 47 states and D.C., United States only.
Notice of Privacy Practices: https://velri.co/privacy/notice-of-privacy-practices
Terms: https://velri.co/legal/terms
Provider group or pharmacy opt-out help: https://velri.co/contact and https://velri.co/standards#trust-support