Cortisol in Saliva (Free Cortisol, 24-Hour Average)
This test measures the amount of cortisol, a natural steroid hormone, present in your saliva over a 24-hour period. It helps assess your body’s cortisol levels without blood draws, reflecting your stress hormone activity throughout the day.
["This test helps evaluate your body’s natural cortisol production and response to stress."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 57686-8
- Short code
- Cortis sp12 Sal-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Cortis sp12 Sal-mCnc
- Category
- hormone
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if they suspect conditions related to cortisol imbalance, such as Cushing’s syndrome (too much cortisol), adrenal insufficiency (too little cortisol), or stress-related hormone issues. It’s also used to monitor treatment effectiveness for conditions like adrenal disorders or chronic stress management.
How the Test Works
Saliva is collected in special containers over a full day (typically 24 hours). The cortisol in your saliva is measured using a sensitive immunoassay method, which detects small amounts of the hormone without needing blood. This method avoids the stress of blood draws and provides a more natural reflection of your cortisol levels.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may collect saliva samples at home using provided containers, following instructions to ensure accurate results. Avoid smoking, chewing gum, or eating/drinking immediately before collecting samples to prevent interference.
What to Expect During the Test
You’ll collect saliva samples throughout the day, usually by spitting into a container at designated times. The samples are then sent to a lab for analysis. This test is non-invasive and doesn’t require a clinic visit unless your provider directs otherwise.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated cortisol levels over 24 hours may indicate conditions like Cushing’s syndrome, where the body produces too much cortisol, or chronic stress. Low levels could signal adrenal insufficiency or other hormonal imbalances. This test helps diagnose and monitor these conditions by providing a comprehensive picture of cortisol production throughout the day.
Short name
Salivary Cortisol
Frequently asked questions
How long will I need to prepare for this test?
What should I do if I miss a sample collection time?
Can I take medications or supplements before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy