Written by Tyler DiGiovanni | BSBM
Fact checked by Meghan Novoshielski, M.S Nutrition Sci. ,RDN
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Ashwagandha supplements have been becoming increasingly popular over the past couple of years. But some cultures have been enjoying the health benefits of Ashwagandha for literally thousands of years.
Whether you are looking for a supplement that will give you a little boost in the gym, or something great for overall health, an Ashwagandha dietary supplement might be exactly what you are looking for.
We have broken down the 7 best Ashwagandha supplements on the market so you can pick the one that best fits your needs.
Keep reading to find out what all the hype surrounding many Ashwagandha supplements is all about.
7 Best Ashwagandha Supplements
- Overall Best: Nootropics Depot Ashwagandha
- Budget Pick: Physician’s Choice Ashwagandha
- KSM 66 Ashwagandha: DailyNutra Ashwagandha
- Best Gummy: Herbatech Ashwagandha Gummies
- Powder Form: BulkSupplements Ashwagandha
- High Dose: Ashwa 70
- Liquid Form: Herb Pharm Ashwagandha
SFS Pick
Nootropics Depot
SFS Budget Pick
Physician’s Choice
SFS KSM-66 Pick
Daily Nutra
How We Chose The Best Ashwagandha Brands in 2023:
Selecting the best ashwagandha supplement brand involved a lot of research, testing, and consideration for several essential criteria:
- Clean Ingredients: Prioritize products that contain pure ingredients without unnecessary fillers, additives, or artificial substances.
- Price per Serving: Evaluate the cost per dosage offered, as a very low price may indicate a low dosage or inferior quality.
- Minimal Stimulants: Opt for supplements with minimal or no stimulants, such as caffeine or cordyceps mushroom, to avoid potential side effects. If you desire a sense of calmness, avoid energy-promoting ingredients like cordyceps.
- Third-Party Testing: Choose supplements that undergo third-party testing, ensuring consistent quality that is independently verified.
- Reviews: Customer reviews played a role in how we ranked the top-rated ashwagandha supplements. However, with a supplement like ashwagandha, we had to take some with a pinch of salt and focus more on hard evidence.
Based on the above criteria and our own experiences, we were able to determine a list of winners, which we categorized based on various preferences, such as form (i.e. capsule or gummy).
Here are our reviews and comparisons of the 7 ashwagandha supplements listed above...
1. Overall Best Ashwagandha Supplement: Nootropics Depot Ashwagandha
Our pick for overall best Ashwagandha supplement goes to Nootropics Depot Shoden Ashwagandha.
With 120mg of Shoden® Ashwagandha extract from the roots and leaves of the withania somnifera plant, this extract contains an industry high 35% Withanolides.
Nootropics Depot Ashwagandha supplements contain full spectrum Withanolide Glycosides, including high levels a Withanoside X. These bioactive compounds have been shown to help with cognitive health and may even help with mental health conditions.1
These Ashwagandha capsules are tested in-house as well as by a third party to make sure that they are pure Ashwagandha and that nothing else made it into the pill during the manufacturing process.
We've tried many ashwagandha supplements on the market and we can say that Nootropics Depot has the best offering all things considered. After taking this product for a few weeks I noticed that I was sleeping better and felt more energized throughout the day and actually saw some gains in the gym.
Nootropics Depot also has a stellar reputation on the Nootropics subreddit, being a verified reliable supplier of nootropics and other supplements.
As mentioned before, there is 120mg per serving, which on the surface looks lower than other supplements, but due to the potency of the extract, that is all you will need. With a suggested serving size of one capsule per day, the 30-day supply costs just over $20, and the 90-day supply costs a tad over $40. That puts the cost per serving (if you are only taking one a day) at far less than $1/day.
Key Points:
- Price: $19.99
- Servings: 30
- Price per serving: $0.66
- Serving size: 1 capsule
- Ashwagandha amount: 120mg (more potent)
- Third party tested: Yes
- Active ingredients: 5
- Feature: High Bioavailability at Low Doses thanks to Shoden: Significant levels of Withanolide Glycosides remain in the blood even after six hours; 35% Withanolides
- Customer Reviews: 4.7 stars
Pros
- Industry high 35% Withanolides
- Third-party tested
- Verified seller on a popular subreddit
Cons
- Somewhat high cost per serving
- Not certified organic
Shoden is a clinically-tested, purified extract from the leaves and roots of the Ashwagandha plant. With an industry leading 35% Withanolide Glycosides (measured by HPLC), Shoden offers high bioavailability...
2. Best Budget Ashwagandha Supplement: Physician’s Choice Ashwagandha
Our best budget option happens to be Physician's Choice Ashwagandha featuring the KSM-66® organic Ashwagandha root powder extract.
Offering a whopping 1,000mg per serving of the 5% Withanolides organic Ashwagandha root extract, this supplement takes advantage of the numerous studies done on a pure root powder, rather than a mix of the roots and leaves.
KSM-66® has even been the exact compound used in numerous studies, showing an improvement in cognition, stress support, and athletic support. One published study has even shown a 27% reduction in cortisol levels after participants used KSM-66®.2
Also included in these veggie capsules is 15mg per serving of organic black pepper extract, which helps with bioavailability so you can get the most out of your supplementation.
Physician's Choice is a non-GMO, NAPA free, additive free supplement that also avoids the seven major food allergens (dairy, wheat, soy, gluten, eggs, nuts, and shellfish) and uses veggie capsules as the oral delivery method.
This supplement contains 60 pills per bottle, but at a serving size of two pills this will only give you a 30 day supply.
Key Points:
- Price: $17.07
- Servings: 30
- Price per serving: $0.56
- Serving size: 2 capsules (vegan)
- Ashwagandha amount: 1,000mg
- Third party tested: Unclear
- Active ingredients: 3
- Feature: Black pepper for better absorption; 5% Withanolides
- Customer Reviews: 4.4 stars
Pros
- Vegan, non-GMO
- Utilizes a clinically backed product with KSM-66®
- Great price for a 30 day supply
Cons
- Third-party tested is not clearly labeled
- Servings size is two pills
Organic KSM-66 ashwagandha root extract is the most researched ashwagandha with 22 Rigorous double-blind clinical studies showing its effectiveness in supporting cognitive support, stress support, athletic support...
3. Best KSM-66® Ashwagandha Supplement: DailyNutra Ashwagandha
DailyNutra Ashwagandha is our pick for best KSM-66® supplement.
Just like the supplement above, DailyNutra utilizes KSM-66® branded Ashwagandha. Providing a guaranteed 5% Withanolides content in each serving, that means you will be getting at least a 30mg dose of Withanolides with every consumption.
KSM-66® may also help enhance endurance, muscle growth, and strength.3
Each pill contains a 600mg clinical dose of organic Ashwagandha supplement powder that can provide healthy stress levels making the most out of this adaptogen. KSM-66® has also been found to enhance endurance, muscle growth, and strength. So you can see results both in the gym and out of the gym.
DailyNutra is so confident in their product that they offer a 60 day money back guarantee, they do ask that the product be taken for at least two weeks before jumping to any conclusions. Which still would give plenty of time to return it if it wasn't meeting your expectations.
It should be noted that this product does contain dairy, since KSM-66® uses a traditional method for the Ashwagandha extraction process, which involves soaking the root in milk. There aren't any other major allergens included in this product (soy, tree nuts, corn, wheat, gluten, shellfish, fish, peanuts, or eggs) which is confirmed by third-party testing.
Also included in this product is BioPerine® which is a black pepper extract, for increased bioavailability.
With a serving being a single pill, a 60 day supply will set you back less than $20 and a 90 day supply costs under $30.
Key Points:
- Price: $19.99
- Servings: 60 capsules
- Price per serving: $0.33
- Serving size: 1 capsule
- Ashwagandha amount: 600mg
- Third party tested: Yes
- Active ingredients: 4
- Feature: Gluten-free, traditional extraction method (contains milk), contains black pepper for better absorption; 5% Withanolides
- Customer Reviews: 4.7 stars
Pros
- 60 Day money back guarantee
- KSM-66® has been shown to be effective in over 20 clinical studies
- Single capsule serving size
Cons
- Contains milk which could be an issue for some users
- Not much of a difference in price for buying the larger size bottle unless you get a nine month supply
KSM-66 Ashwagandha is shown to support athletic performance, cardiorespiratory endurance (VO2 max), muscle growth, and strength during physical training...
4. Best Ashwagandha Gummy Supplement: Herbatech Ashwagandha Gummies
Our top pick for best Ashwagandha gummy supplement are the Herbatech Ashwagandha gummies.
Ashwagandha gummies are a great alternative for people who don't like taking supplements in pill form, or just want to have a little "treat" while getting some health beenfits of supplementation.
Herbatech Ashwagandha gummies contain 1,500mg of withania somnifera root extract in each serving. That may sound a bit high, but the Withanolides content is only at a standardized 3%. That still is higher than the lowest effective percentage of 2.5% Withanolides, so don't think just because it doesn't hit that 5% that other supplements have, it won't get the job done.
These Ashwagandha gummies help lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone), promote relaxation, as well as give a general improved mood.
Each gummy contains 3g of sugar, which puts you at 6g per serving, with a total of 15 calories per serving.
Each bottle comes with 100 Ashwagandha gummies, giving you a total of 50 servings per bottle. At the time of this writing, a bottle costs less than $20!
Key Points:
- Price: $15.26
- Servings: 50
- Price per serving: $0.30
- Serving size: 2 gummies
- Ashwagandha amount: 1,500mg
- Third party tested: No
- Active ingredients: 11
- Feature: 3% Withanolides; 30:1 extract
- Customer Reviews: 4.4 stars
Pros
- Non-GMO. gluten free, vegan safe
- Made from only root extract
- Tasty and chewy, making it extremely easy to take
Cons
- Added calories unlike other dietary supplements
- Lower standardized Withanolides content
Herbatech's Ashwagandha gummies help block cortisol to relieve stress, promote relaxation, and improve mood. Herbatech's formula contains 1,500mg...
5. Best Powder Ashwagandha Supplement: BulkSupplements Ashwagandha
We have given BulkSupplements the nod as the best powder form of Ashwagandha supplements.
Now some people don't like taking any pills, and some might scoff at the idea of adding Ashwagandha gummies into their diet. That is where Ashwagandha powder can shine.
Made specifically from the root, this bulk form of Ashwagandha root powder can be easily mixed into any beverage you were going to be consuming anyway.
Just 1/5 tsp is all it takes to get 450mg of Ashwagandha in powder form. This is an ideal way to consume Ashwagandha for people that want to have exact control over how much Ashwagandha they intake. It can be added to drinks, used in baked goods, and if you are feeling extra industrious, you can actually pack your own capsules.
BulkSupplements does rigorous checks both in-house and through third parties to make sure their ingredients are what they should be and that the entire manufacturing process is held to a high standard. BulkSupplements makes sure that all of their products are manufactured to cGMP standards.
Powdered Ashwagandha comes in a variety of sizes to choose from, starting from 100g all the way up to 5kg. It should be noted that like other supplements, these Ashwagandha supplements expire so you should order for your needs appropriately.
The best price per ounce is the 1kg size that contains 2,222 servings, which will most likely be more than any one person needs.
Key Points:
- Price: $36.96
- Servings: 1,666
- Price per serving: $0.02
- Serving size: 600mg (1/4 tsp)
- Ashwagandha amount: 600mg
- Third party tested: Yes
- Active ingredients: 2
- Feature: 5:1 extract
- Customer Reviews: 4.8 stars
Pros
- Can easily adjust dosage
- Huge variety of package sizes to choose from
- Third-party tested
Cons
- Not a standardized version, so the percentage of Withanolides in each serving is unknown
- Needs to be measured every time to get a consistent dose
Our Ashwagandha Extract, or Ashwagandha powder, is laboratory-tested for purity and potency, ensuring that you only get high quality product that contain 450 mg...
6. Best High Dose Ashwagandha Supplement: Ashwa-70®
Our pick for best high dose Ashwagandha supplement is the Triquetra Ashwa-70® Ashwagandha extract.
Ashwa-70® utilizes the Shoden® Ashwagandha proprietary supplement which provides seven times more Withanolides concentration than the well known KSM-66® brand.
In double blind clinical studies, Shoden® Ashwagandha has been shown to improve sleep quality, including decreased time in falling asleep, be a low level testosterone booster, and potentially improve athletic performance.
Shoden® Ashwagandha really shines in its ability to reduce stress. With a record of lowering stress hormones by 23% and the ability to relieve stress symptoms by up to 30%, this high potency supplement is just what you have been looking for to help deal with your day to day mental stress.
Ashwa-70® is comprised of 200mg of Shoden® Ashwagandha per serving, which gives a staggering 70mg of Withanolides per serving. Even though Shoden® Ashwagandha has a remarkable 13 times more bioavailability than the other top two brands of Ashwagandha, Ashwa-70® still contains 10mg of BioPerine® black pepper extract for even higher absorption properties.
Ashwa-70® is produced in a GMP and organic certified facility, and are third party lab tested to ensure that the quality of the product stays top notch.
These Ashwagandha capsules come in a bottle of 60, and only require one capsule per serving. At a cost under $30 per bottle, that comes to less than 50 cents per serving, which is very reasonable for such a potent product.
Key Points:
- Price: $27.97
- Servings: 60
- Price per serving: $0.46
- Serving size: 1 capsule
- Ashwagandha amount: 200mg (potent)
- Third party tested: Yes
- Active ingredients: 4
- Feature: 35% Withanolides; BioPerine® black pepper extract for enhanced absorption; Vegan/Gluten-Free
- Customer Reviews: 4.9 stars
Pros
- High Ashwagandha dosage with industry high 35% Withanolides
- Added BioPerine® for enhanced bioavailability
- Third-party tested
Cons
- Not a pure root extract which may be undesirable for some
- High potency could lead to GI issues for some people
7X HIGHER WITHANOLIDES CONCENTRATION THAN KSM-66: Ashwa-70 provides 35% withanolide concentration compared to 5% concentration in KSM-66. Withanolides are the active nutrients in Ashwagandha...
7. Best Liquid Ashwagandha Supplement: Herb Pharm Ashwagandha
The best liquid form of Ashwagandha goes to Herb Pharm Ashwagandha.
Probably the easiest Ashwagandha supplement form to ingest, all that is required is using the included dropper to mix a serving into only two ounces of water or juice; that's it. Herb Pharm does recommend taking it between meals on an empty stomach up to two to three times per day.
Herb Pharm has provided an organic Ashwagandha extract that gives you 175mg of Ashwagandha every .7ml, which is the full content of the included dropper. The extract is taken from the roots of the withania somnifera, or Ashwagandha plant.
Most Ashwagandha supplements will use some sort of combination of the roots and leaves, touting high Withanolides content as a major selling point, but the the majority of clinical research is done only using the root.
Herb Pharm liquid organic Ashwagandha drops are available in an alcohol-free glycerite in 1oz, 2oz, and 4oz sizes. There also is less expensive option that is made with cane alcohol that comes in 1oz and 4oz sizes. The 1oz size provides about 42 servings, the 2oz provides about 84, and the 4oz provides approximately 168 servings.
While there is the USDA Certified Organic seal and an assurance that potency is tested through High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) analysis, there is not anything explicitly stating it is done through third party testing.
Key Points:
- Price: $49.98
- Servings: 168
- Price per serving: $0.30
- Serving size: .7ml (tincture)
- Ashwagandha amount: 833mg
- Third party tested: No
- Active ingredients: 3
- Feature: USDA Organic; Gluten Free
- Customer Reviews: 4.6 stars
Pros
- Extremely easy to consume Ashwagandha through this method
- Liquid is rapidly absorbed
- Extract specifically from the roots
Cons
- Nothing confirming third party testing
- Not standardized, so amount of Withanolides is unknown
Prepared from the dry whole root of Certified Organic Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) plants. Rapidly absorbed liquid extract...
Comparison Table of our Top-Rated Ashwagandha Supplements:
|
Brand |
Price |
Servings |
Price per serving |
Serving size |
Ashwagandha amount |
Third party tested |
Active ingredients |
Features |
Customer Reviews |
|
$19.99 |
30 |
$0.66 |
1 capsule |
120mg (more potent) |
Yes |
5 |
High Bioavailability at Low Doses thanks to Shoden: 35% Withanolides |
||
|
$17.07 |
30 |
$0.56 |
2 capsules (vegan) |
1,000mg |
Unclear |
3 |
Black pepper for better absorption; 5% Withanolides |
||
|
$19.99 |
60 |
$0.33 |
1 capsule |
600mg |
Yes |
4 |
Gluten-free, traditional extraction method (contains milk); 5% Withanolides |
||
|
$15.26 |
50 |
$0.30 |
2 gummies |
1,500mg |
No |
11 |
3% Withanolides; 30:1 extract |
||
|
$36.96 |
1,666 |
$0.02 |
600mg (1/4 tsp) |
600mg |
Yes |
2 |
5:1 extract |
||
|
$27.97 |
60 |
$0.46 |
1 capsule |
200mg (potent) |
Yes |
4 |
35% Withanolides; BioPerine® black pepper extract for enhanced absorption; Vegan/Gluten-Free |
||
|
$49.98 |
168 |
$0.30 |
0.7ml (tincture) |
833mg |
No |
3 |
USDA Organic; Gluten Free |
What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha, also known as Indian Ginseng or winter cherry, can have its use traced all the way back to 6000 BC, where it was used as a health tonic in the Indian system of medicine called Ayurveda.
An evergreen shrub in the Solanaceae family (also called the nightshade family), Ashwagandha is found throughout India, the Middle East, as well as parts of Africa. Getting its name from the Sanskrit word "ashva" which means horse, and "gandha" which means smell. There are two theories on why it got that name, the first being the root of the plant smells like a horse, and the second is that it gives you horse like strength.
Ashwagandha has been mainly used for its properties as an adaptogen> in Ayurvedic medicine, which can help your body adapt to stress, anxiety, fatigue, and can promote general wellbeing.4 Lately, Ashwagandha has been used to reduce swelling, lower blood pressure, as well as boost your immune system. We will touch on a lot more of the benefits lower down in the article.
The main active ingredient in an Ashwagandha extract are called Withanolides, which are naturally occurring polyoxygenated steroidal lactones which can be used as an anti-inflammatory agent.
Branded Types of Ashwagandha:
Out there among standard Ashwagandha supplements are products made with a branded standardized Ashwagandha extract, so you know exactly the percentage of Withanolides contained in the supplement. This gives a leg up on non-standardized Ashwagandha supplements by making sure you can get the most effective dosage.
Below we will look at the three biggest branded types of Ashwagandha, as those will be the ones you most commonly see when shopping. Note, there are more than just these three, one of which we included in our best of list: Ashwa-70.
1. Shoden®
Shoden® Ashwagandha is an extremely high potency Ashwagandha extract made from the roots and leaves of the withania somnifera plant. Boasting an industry high 35% Withanolide Glycosides, Shoden® can provide benefits even at lower doses.
Shoden® provides high bioavailability, with proof of elevated levels of Withanolides found in the blood stream even after 24 hours.
Much like other Ashwagandha products, Shoden® has been studied for applications such as anxiety and stress levels, sleep quality, vitality, testosterone levels in men, and boosting of the immune system. A clinical study was completed that showed its benefit of improving restorative sleep by 42%!
Shoden® is made from Ashwagandha plants that are grown and harvested with sustainable farming practices in India. The Ashwagandha extract is processed using food-grade ethanol and potable water, with the majority of the ethanol able to be purified and used again.
2. KSM-66®
KSM-66® is a full spectrum Ashwagandha extract, with the highest concentration of Withanolides from an extract that is made exclusively from the roots. Coming in at 5% standardized Withanolides, KSM-66® is not as high as other branded Ashwagandha supplements, but it being an Ashwagandha root extract does give it a bit of an edge.
Most of the studies done on Ashwagandha powder are specifically done from the root, not the leaves. In more traditional ayurvedic medicine, the leaves are used for topical applications rather than included into an ingestible.
KSM-66® was developed after 14 years of research and development, taking traditional Ayurvedic medicine methods and bringing them into the present. Pre-treating the roots in milk before extraction has been described by ayurvedic texts, and while the traditional means of doing so isn't efficient for mass producibility, the process has been updated to get the benefits with modern practices. There is also a dairy-free alternate version of KSM-66®, so if you are dairy sensitive, you want to know which one you would be consuming.
KSM-66® Ashwagandha root extract has been clinically shownn5 to act as an adaptogen by reducing stress, anxiety, cortisol levels and stress related food cravings. It also has been shown to be a nootropic by enhancing memory and cognitive health.
In the gym it has shown improvements in endurance, strength, muscle size, and muscle recovery rate. In the bedroom it has shown to have sexual health benefits in both men and women, and enhanced testosterone in men.
3. Sensoril®
Sensoril® organic Ashwagandha extract provides a product that contains greater than or equal to 10% Withanolide glycosides. Also contained within are two other bioactives, which are Withaferin A and Oligosaccharides.
Sensoril® takes a full plant approach to their proprietary blend and uses both the root and the leaves of the plant, believing there are benefits in both parts not just the roots. These claims are backed by 12 clinical studies6 showing a change in stress response for the better. Subjects had found a reduction in stress and anxiety, an increase in DHEA which can increase cognitive functions and even more restful sleep with an overall improvement to sleep quality. All this was shown with the low dose of 125mg, with higher doses showing great improvements.
Sensoril® is non-GMO, vegetarian, organic, Kosher, and Halal certified.
Which is the Best Type of Ashwaganda?
KSM-66® is often considered one of the best types of ashwagandha available due to several factors:
- Standardization: KSM-66® is a highly standardized extract of ashwagandha. It contains a high concentration of active compounds known as withanolides, particularly withanolide content of at least 5%. This standardized formulation ensures consistent potency and efficacy.
- Purity and Quality: KSM-66® is manufactured using a patented extraction process that does not involve the use of any harmful solvents or chemicals. This process helps maintain the purity and integrity of the ashwagandha extract.
- Clinical Research: KSM-66® has undergone extensive clinical research and numerous scientific studies to validate its health benefits. These studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in supporting stress reduction, cognitive function, energy levels, and overall well-being.
- Adaptogenic Properties: Ashwagandha is classified as an adaptogen, meaning it may help the body adapt to stress and promote balance. KSM-66® is believed to possess strong adaptogenic properties, making it a popular choice for managing stress and anxiety.
- Backed by Patents: KSM-66® is a patented ashwagandha extract, and the manufacturing process is proprietary. This exclusivity ensures that the quality and formulation are maintained to the highest standards.
It's important to note that while KSM-66® is a well-regarded and extensively studied form of ashwagandha, other ashwagandha extracts, including Sensoril®, Shoden®, and others, may also offer benefits depending on individual needs and preferences.
Here are some things to consider between the ashwagandha brands to determine which you want to buy:
- KSM 66 Ashwagandha: This ashwagandha root extract is standardized to approximately 5% withanolides. KSM 66 is known for its stimulating properties, potentially enhancing endurance, energy levels, and muscle recovery.*
- Sensoril Ashwagandha: This ashwagandha extract combines both root and leaf components, providing a smooth and relaxing blend. Sensoril is recognized for promoting balanced stress levels and supporting healthy sleep patterns.*
- Shoden Ashwagandha: Shoden® stands out with an exceptional 35% withanolide glycoside content. This unique formulation, derived from both ashwagandha root and leaf, offers a full spectrum ashwagandha extract with a well-rounded effect profile.
Note: All brands are available in various forms.
Forms of Ashwaganda Supplements:
Ashwagandha comes in various forms — capsules, gummies, and powders, which we have included in our list.
- Capsules/pills offer a quick and convenient method of consumption, often favored for precision in dosage.
- Gummies provide a fun, easy-to-take alternative, especially appealing to those who dislike swallowing pills. When choosing the best Ashwagandha gummies, make sure the ingredients are organically sourced and from a reputable provider.
- Powder is versatile, allowing for incorporation into meals or drinks.
Each form has its pros and cons, so consider your lifestyle, taste preferences, and convenience when making a choice. Just be sure to look for the brand of Ashwaganda (again, KSM-66 or Shoden are top ashwaganda supplements).
What to Look for when buying Ashwagandha Supplements:
We have only showed you seven of the best Ashwagandha supplements on the market, and with dozens more out there to choose from, finding exactly what you want can be a little tricky. We are going to give you a little breakdown of what we think you should be looking for when finding the right Ashwagandha products for you.
1. Ingredients
Knowing what you what in your supplement is absolutely key. Obviously you want an extract from the withania somnifera plant, but which part? Are you a traditionalist that wants organic Ashwagandha root extract, or will an extract with both the root and leaves be acceptable?
Figuring out if you want particular branded types of pure Ashwagandha extract supplements is also going to play a large part. A product with Shoden® may sound appealing based on the 35% Withanolides number, but KSM66 has a track record in clinical studies, so researching a bit on branded types might be worth your time. The benefit of using a branded pure Ashwagandha product is the consistency and confidence of knowing exactly how much you are getting.
Branching of the branded names, Withanolides percentage might also be something to consider. A product with a higher concentration of Withanolides won't need as large of a dose to be effective. There is a general feeling that the Withanolides percentage should be at least 2.5%, with a branded product you can be sure you are getting well over that.
2. Testing
This also ties into the ingredients, having accurate impartial testing is extremely important to make sure you are buying exactly what is advertised. As unfortunate as it is, there are companies out there that will cut corners just to save a buck. When it comes to anything ingestible, you should be 100% sure of what you are putting into your body.
3. Price per serving & Dosage
Price per serving (or dosage) is exactly what it sounds like. Something to weigh out is what the entire bottle is going to cost you per day. You also have to take into consideration the dosage you want to take, which is around 250-600mg per day on average but up to 1,000mg (or 1g) is common and considered safe.
A certain product might be more expensive, but also might contain significantly more servings and/or higher dosage per serving, which in the long run could be a better deal than the cheapest upfront option.
4. Type & Form
Ashwaganda supplements come in several forms, such as ethanolic extracts (i.e. tinctures) and powders, capsules or hard pills. This is up to preference.
When searching for the top ashwagandha supplement, the safest choices are with the two well-known trademarked ashwagandha ingredients: KSM-66® ashwagandha, Shoden® ashwagandha, and Sensoril® ashwagandha.
5. Reviews
Read a bunch of reviews, both good and bad. Most people will just read the good ones, looking for exactly what they want to hear, but getting both sides of the argument will most likely give you a more accurate picture. Someone might have given a 1-star review because the box it got delivered in was damaged, which has nothing to do with the product itself, just like someone might have given it a 5-star review just for showing up on their doorstep. Wading through reviews, you can usually tell who gave it an honest shot, and who thought it would be a miracle supplement that would transform them in one dose.
Something else that can also be revealed in reviews is the quality of customer service for the product. Usually people are honest about how the company reacted if an issue arose, and that by itself can be valuable information that would save you a possible headache down the line.
Benefits of Ashwagandha:
As you might have guessed by now, Ashwagandha has a lot of amazing health benefits with clinical studies to back up those claims. We are going to touch on six fantastic benefits of taking Ashwagandha, as if you needed any more convincing.
1. Lower Stress & Anxiety
As mentioned before, Ashwagandha is considered an adaptogen, which means it can help your body deal with stress, minimalizing the negative effects of stress. This is not a claim that has been pulled out of thin air, there are numerous clinical studies to back this up. One such study showed that in four focal aspects of stress and anxiety, people that took Ashwagandha supplements had a significant positive change over the group taking the placebo. We are not talking a few percentage points, a 58.1%, 53.8%, 79.9%, and 38.5% difference in each category.7
When it came to the aspects seen as precursors or results of the focal phenomenon of stress, there was a 71.2%, 71.8%, 89.8%, 82.2%, and 20% difference in stress reduction for people taking Ashwagandha.
Not only does this study show that people taking Ashwagandha root powder reduced their anxiety and stress, but it also showed that it helped reduce the level of serum cortisol, which in turn will help keep blood pressure and heart rate lower.
2. Boost Athletic Performance
Another reason someone might want to add Ashwagandha supplementation into their diet is due to the athletic benefits it offers. Ashwagandha has been found to increase endurance even in highly trained athletes at significant levels.8 Being able to train harder for longer is only going to result in more results, quicker.
Ashwagandha powder has also been found to improve strength and muscle growth while simultaneously helping burn more body fat.9
3. Reduce Blood Sugar Levels
Some small scale clinical studies have found Ashwagandha root extract to actually be helpful in reducing blood sugar levels, as well as decreasing triglycerides. One study even went as far to say that Ashwagandha has similar blood sugar lowering properties as medicines specifically prescribed for type 2 diabetes.10 *Anyone currently taking diabetes medicine should consult with their doctor before making any change to their medications.
4. Increase Testosterone Production
Now we will preface this with saying it has only been shown to increase testosterone levels in men, not women.11 So women will not have to worry about adverse effects of added testosterone. A separate study on muscle strength increase while taking Ashwagandha supplements showed an increase in testosterone.
This production also transfers over to the bedroom, with an improvement in sperm quality found due to the rebalancing of hormone levels. As well as the improvement in sperm, it can also help boost your libido.
5. Improve Cognition
Ashwagandha has been found to have some nootropic qualities in small studies. Compared to a placebo, Ashwagandha has been found to improve reaction12 times during a cognition and psychomotor test.
There also has been a study that has shown that taking Ashwagandha supplements can actually improve your attention span, making it easier to concentrate for longer. The same study found that short-term memory as well as long-term showed improvement through various tests.13
6. Promote Better Sleep
One of the best known reasons to take Ashwagandha is for its sleep benefits. Ashwagandha has been found to help with falling asleep faster, as well as an improved quality of sleep. One study has even suggested that it could be a natural alternative to addictive insomnia medications.14
There also has been reports of improved mood upon waking in the morning.
Ashwagandha FAQs:
Is Ashwagandha worth the money?
That all depends on what you are looking to use Ashwagandha for. There are multiple studies done that show Ashwagandha has the ability to reduce anxiety, reduce stress, aid with sleep quality, increase muscle strength and size, improve testosterone levels, and a lot more.
All that being said, if you are looking for a legal alternative to anabolic steroids, this is not the supplement you are looking for. The benefits of ashwagandha are well documented, and can be a great addition to most peoples supplementation program.
Is Ashwagandha Safe?
69 different studies have found Ashwagandha safe to take at least as a short term supplement. That is not to say it is harmful in the long run, just that studies haven't been performed yet to confirm one way or the other. As with any supplement, you should always consult with your doctor before starting any new supplementation to make sure there aren't any unwanted interactions with any current medications.
Do Ashwagandha supplements work?
As mentioned above, multiple research studies have shown that taking Ashwagandha supplements may help with sleep quality, acting as a natural remedy for insomnia. There is also evidence of Ashwagandha acting as an adaptogen and helping the body's stress response, which in turn also assists in lowering anxiety.
There have also been studies showing an improvement in cardiovascular health in even well trained athletes when used as part of a herbal supplements regimen.
What’s the best dose for ashwagandha supplements?
Most of the clinical studies that have been performed have shown 600mg of Ashwagandha to be an extremely effective dose for achieving the health benefits of Ashwaganda.
Ashwaganda studies have used anywhere from 200mg to 1,500mg daily dosages.
It is also important to take into account the amount of Withanolides in a supplement, due to the belief that they are the active ingredient from the withania somnifera plant. A supplement might have a lower mg dose but contain a higher potency of Withanolides, which may have the same desired effects.
Our recommendation is to start lower and see how you feel then work up to a dosage you feel is adequate.
Is 1,000 milligrams of ashwagandha too much?
No it’s not. Research indicates that high doses of ashwagandha, exceeding 1,000 milligrams, are generally safe. However, it's essential to avoid the misconception of "the higher, the better" when supplementing with ashwagandha. Always adhere to the recommended dosing directions on supplement labels and refrain from taking multiple doses of the supplement without consulting a trusted healthcare provider. Safety and proper dosing should always be prioritized.
Which is better, ashwagandha pills or powder?
The choice between ashwagandha pills and powder depends on personal preference. If you dislike or have difficulty tolerating pills, then the powder form might be a better option for you. Unlike pills, powders can be easily mixed into smoothies and various foods, making them more palatable. On the other hand, pills offer convenience and can be taken on-the-go without any hassle. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what suits your lifestyle and preferences best.
What does the ratio on an ashwagandha label mean?
If you see numbers associated with ashwagandha root extract, like "ashwagandha root 30:1," it indicates the concentration or potency. The ratio provided, such as 30:1, represents the amount of raw ashwagandha root required to produce one unit of the final extract. In a 30:1 extract, 30 units of raw ashwagandha root are condensed down to one unit of the extract, resulting in a more potent and concentrated form of the herb. Typically, higher ratios signify a more concentrated extract.
How do you take ashwagandha supplements?
Ashwagandha supplements come in a variety of options. Just on our list of the seven best Ashwagandha supplements there are capsules, powder, liquid, and gummies. The best way to take them is to pick an option that you will be able to take consistently, so you get the maximum benefit of the supplement.
Can you take ashwagandha with other supplements?
Ashwagandha's versatility makes it compatible with various supplements for different purposes. For instance, it can be included in pre-workout or caffeinated supplements to support testosterone levels and muscle growth. Additionally, it pairs well with supplements like rhodiola rosea for stress relief and improved cognitive function, as well as with vitamin D for immune health support.
Other common combinations include ashwagandha with L-theanine for stress and anxiety relief, and with magnesium or CBD to promote better sleep quality. Nevertheless, interactions between supplements can occur, so it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you plan to combine multiple supplements. Prioritizing safety and well-informed choices is crucial for optimal health outcomes.
When To Take Ashwagandha Supplements?
That depends on what you are trying to accomplish. If you are looking for a sleep aid, then the evening might be the best time for you take them. Others are looking to reduce their stress and anxiety throughout the day, which a morning consumption might be the better option. We actually have written an entire article about when to take ashwagandha (morning or night?) if you want a more in-depth look.
Who should not take ashwagandha?
It is generally advised that individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, dealing with a serious illness, or taking medications that impact the immune system should avoid using ashwagandha or consult a physician for guidance. While ashwagandha is usually well-tolerated, it may interact with specific medications, particularly those that regulate immune functions. Prioritizing caution and seeking medical advice in such cases is essential to ensure safety and avoid potential complications.
Is ashwagandha safe for thyroid?
The safety of ashwagandha for thyroid health depends on individual circumstances. Some studies indicate that ashwagandha can influence thyroid function by increasing thyroid hormone levels. Therefore, if you have a thyroid condition or are taking thyroid medication, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before considering ashwagandha supplementation. Seeking professional advice will help ensure that ashwagandha is safe and appropriate for your specific thyroid-related needs.
What does ashwagandha make you feel like?
The effects of ashwagandha can vary depending on individual factors. While it may promote a sense of calmness, it can also be used to boost energy levels. Ashwagandha benefits encompass a wide range of effects, from supporting restful sleep to enhancing athletic performance. The impact it has on you can differ based on the dosage and the time of day you take it.
Does ashwagandha work immediately?
While some studies suggest that short-term use of ashwagandha may improve cognitive performance, achieving desired benefits may take several weeks depending on your specific goals. For instance, if you are using ashwagandha to improve sleep, it could take around 10 weeks to experience the full effects. Learn more about this by checking out our article: How Long Does Ashwagandha Take To Work?
Can I take ashwagandha daily?
Ashwagandha root extract is commonly taken daily, often in divided doses. Taking ashwagandha supplements on a daily basis is generally considered safe. The herb has shown to have low toxicity, even at higher doses.
Can ashwagandha help with erectile dysfunction?
Ashwagandha's potential to improve sexual function has been studied, but specific research focusing on its direct impact on erectile dysfunction is limited. However, ashwagandha may offer benefits for psychogenic erectile dysfunction by reducing stress and anxiety and potentially increasing testosterone levels. While it may have positive effects on sexual health, individuals with erectile dysfunction should consult a healthcare professional to explore appropriate treatment options and consider the potential role of ashwagandha in their overall approach to managing the condition.
Which ashwagandha supplement is best for men?
For a comprehensive ashwagandha extract with a higher concentration of withanolide glycosides, Shoden® may offer a well-rounded effect profile for various health benefits. Nootropics Depot Ashwaganda uses Shoden®, and this was our overall top ashwagandha supplement. However, we also would recommend Ashwa 70 for men.
Does the brand of ashwagandha matter?
In short, yes, the brand of ashwagandha does matter. It is crucial to buy high-quality ashwagandha supplements from reputable sources. Opting for third-party tested products guarantees that the supplement has undergone testing for quality, purity, and the absence of potentially harmful contaminants. Prioritizing trusted brands ensures you are getting a safe and effective ashwagandha supplement.
Which brand is best for ashwagandha?
There are a number of high-quality ashwagandha supplements available for purchase online and in stores. While no brand is best, look for ashwagandha supplements that have been third-party tested for quality and that use the best ingredients, which is why we consider Nootropics Depot Ashwaganda to be among the best.
Recap:
We have covered the 7 best Ashwagandha supplements available on the market from some of the best Ashwagandha supplement brands out there.
- Overall Best Ashwagandha Supplement: Nootropics Depot Ashwagandha
- Best Budget Ashwagandha Supplement: Physician’s Choice Ashwagandha
- Best KSM 66 Ashwagandha: DailyNutra Ashwagandha
- Best Ashwagandha Gummies: Herbatech Ashwagandha Gummies
- Best Ashwagandha Powder: BulkSupplements Ashwagandha
- Best High Dose Ashwagandha Supplement: Ashwa 70
- Best Ashwagandha Tincture: Herb Pharm Ashwagandha
Between the fantastic products featured and some background on the withania somnifera or Ashwagandha herb, you are now armed with the knowledge to make a decision on the right supplement for you.
Our favorite pick comes from Nootropics Depot thanks to the formulation and value for your dollar.
Whether you are looking for a possible testosterone booster, something for reducing stress, improving your sleep, and a whole host of other benefits, then an all natural supplement like Ashwagandha is definitely worth your time and money to check out.
Shoden is a clinically-tested, purified extract from the leaves and roots of the Ashwagandha plant. With an industry leading 35% Withanolide Glycosides (measured by HPLC), Shoden offers high bioavailability...
Want more ancient remedies to boost your health? Check out our posts that cover the Best Turkesterone Supplements or the Best Tongkat Ali Supplements on the market.
References:
- Zahiruddin, Sultan, et al. “Ashwagandha in Brain Disorders: A Review of Recent Developments.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, vol. 257, July 2020, p. 112876, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2020.112876.
- Chandrasekhar, K, et al. “A Prospective, Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Safety and Efficacy of a High-Concentration Full-Spectrum Extract of Ashwagandha Root in Reducing Stress and Anxiety in Adults.” Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, vol. 34, no. 3, 2012, pp. 255–62, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23439798, https://doi.org/10.4103/0253-7176.106022.
- Wankhede, Sachin, et al. “Examining the Effect of Withania Somnifera Supplementation on Muscle Strength and Recovery: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, vol. 12, 2015, p. 43, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26609282, https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-015-0104-9.
- What are Adaptogens & Types. (n.d.). Retrieved from Cleveland Clinic website: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/22361-adaptogens
- Clinical Studies – KSM-66. (2020, November 4). KSM-66. https://ksm66ashwagandhaa.com/clinical-studies/
- Sensoril® Aswagandha | Human Clinical Studies. (n.d.). Retrieved September 24, 2022, from https://humanclinicals.org/project/sensoril-aswagandha/
- Chandrasekhar, K., Kapoor, J., & Anishetty, S. (2012). A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, 34(3), 255–262. https://doi.org/10.4103/0253-7176.106022
- Shenoy, S., Chaskar, U., Sandhu, J. S., & Paadhi, M. M. (2012). Effects of eight-week supplementation of Ashwagandha on cardiorespiratory endurance in elite Indian cyclists. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 3(4), 209–214. https://doi.org/10.4103/0975-9476.104444
- Wankhede, S., Langade, D., Joshi, K., Sinha, S. R., & Bhattacharyya, S. (2015). Examining the effect of Withania somnifera supplementation on muscle strength and recovery: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 12, 43. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-015-0104-9
- Andallu, B., & Radhika, B. (2000). Hypoglycemic, diuretic and hypocholesterolemic effect of winter cherry (Withania somnifera, Dunal) root. Indian Journal of Experimental Biology, 38(6), 607–609. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11116534/
- Lopresti, A. L., Smith, S. J., Malvi, H., & Kodgule, R. (2019). An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Medicine, 98(37), e17186. https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000017186
- Pingali, U., Pilli, R., & Fatima, N. (2014). Effect of standardized aqueous extract of Withania somniferaon tests of cognitive and psychomotor performance in healthy human participants. Pharmacognosy Research, 6(1), 12. https://doi.org/10.4103/0974-8490.122912
- Choudhary, D., Bhattacharyya, S., & Bose, S. (2017). Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) Root Extract in Improving Memory and Cognitive Functions. Journal of Dietary Supplements, 14(6), 599–612. https://doi.org/10.1080/19390211.2017.1284970
- Langade, D., Kanchi, S., Salve, J., Debnath, K., & Ambegaokar, D. (2019). Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Insomnia and Anxiety: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Study. Cureus. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.5797
Tyler DiGiovanni
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