Cortisal
Research Reliability -
A targeted formula designed to lower elevated cortisol levels, reduce stress reactivity, and restore healthy sleep patterns.
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
deeper, less interrupted sleep for stress-driven insomnia
Ongoing
targets the wired-but-tired pattern
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.
Usage
Entry Dose
1 capsule/day
Standard Dose
2 capsules/day
Max Dose
3 capsules/day
Onset
2–4 weeks (cortisol/sleep)
Combinations
Pairs well with
Synergistic
Magnesium glycinate — both reduce cortisol and HPA reactivity via complementary pathways
Vitamin C — high-dose C blunts the cortisol stress response; standard in adrenal protocols
L-theanine — combined calming without sedation; daytime stress resilience stack
Avoid combining
Contraindicated
Sedatives / benzodiazepines — adaptogenic sedative ingredients may cause additive CNS depression
Stimulant medications — cortisol-regulating effect may be counteracted by stimulants
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.
Preliminary (limited / small human data)
Efficacy claims rest on individual studied constituents rather than trials of the finished blend.
No RCTs identified testing this specific proprietary blend as formulated.