Cortisal
Research Reliability -
A formula combining ingredients studied for their role in the normal stress response. Some people report calmer evenings and easier sleep onset.
Appetite
Mood
Sleep
Cortisal
Description
Cortisal is formulated to address the downstream consequences of chronically elevated cortisol, the primary stress hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Prolonged high cortisol impairs sleep quality, promotes abdominal fat storage, suppresses immune function, degrades muscle tissue, and disrupts blood sugar regulation. This formula typically combines adaptogenic herbs such as ashwagandha and rhodiola with phosphatidylserine, which has strong clinical evidence for cortisol reduction, and calming nutrients like magnesium and L-theanine. Designed for individuals experiencing burnout, chronic insomnia, anxiety, or weight gain associated with high-stress lifestyles.
Effects
First week
nighttime cortisol support may ease wakeups
Weeks 2–4
Ongoing
How It Feels
Aimed at the wired-but-tired, 3am-wakeup pattern, this can help a cortisol-driven mind stay asleep over a couple of weeks. It is subtle rather than sedating. Best for people whose sleep problem is stress, not sleepiness.
Evidence
Evidence Strength
Preliminary (limited / small human data)
Caveats
Efficacy claims rest on individual studied constituents rather than trials of the finished blend.
Usage
Commonly Referenced Starting Amount
Reference only — no consumer dose
Commonly Referenced Amount
This is typically a proprietary adaptogen blend with per-ingredient amounts not disclosed on the label, which makes a real dose impossible to state responsibly. If you want a dosed version of what's usually in these blends, our standalone Ashwagandha and Rhodiola entries have real research-backed ranges.
Referenced Upper Limit
Not applicable outside clinical or research supervision
Onset
2–4 weeks (cortisol/sleep)
Biomarkers to Track
Subjective
(Daily)
Stress and anxiety score (1–10)
Afternoon energy crash severity
Sleep onset latency (mins)
Objective
(Quarterly)
Salivary cortisol (AM and PM)
DHEA-S level
HRV baseline score
Generally safe. Aimed at nighttime cortisol, so best suited to stress-driven sleep issues.
People on medication affecting cortisol or blood pressure should check.
Using it for ordinary sleepiness rather than the wired-but-tired pattern it targets.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.
No RCTs identified testing this specific proprietary blend as formulated.
MORE SUPPLEMENTS LIKE THIS
