Ashwagandha vs Caffeine

for energy / fatigue

Stronger evidence: tie

Stronger effect: tie

Safety: Ashwagandha has the more serious interaction profile (moderate vs minor).

For energy / fatigue, the two are evidence-matched; the difference is in effect and safety.

Ashwagandha

grade B moderate certainty

Ashwagandha supplementation was more efficacious than placebo for improving fatigue/recovery variables in healthy individuals.

Caffeine

grade B moderate certainty

reduces perceived fatigue; tolerance develops with regular use

40–200 mg
sources: PMID:33670194 · PMID:00000021