Want to look youthful, feel healthier, sleep better and cope with everyday anxiety?
Ashwagandha, also known as Indian Ginseng, is just the supplement for you. Keep in mind that Ashwagandha differs from Ginseng in that it is not a stimulant.
A Quick Look At Our 5 Top-Rated Ashwagandha Supplements (Sorted by price)
In our opinion, the best Ashwagandha supplement is Physicians Choice Organic Ashwagandha. With over 16k positive reviews on Amazon alone, it’s our go to source of Ashwagandha extract. Keep reading to read our review and where you can buy it…
Ashwagandha translates to “smell of horse” in India, and rightly so! This miraculous herb has long been considered as a ticket to horse-like vitality and strength.
Native to North Africa, India, and the Middle East, the extract of Ashwagandha was – still is- used to prevent and treat a myriad of illnesses, from mental ones such as insomnia, depression, and concentration to physical ones such as sores, joint pain, and general inflammation.
The supplement is generally extracted from the leaves, berries, or roots of the shrub-like plant. It comes in either powder form to add to your drinks, and also in capsules, or tablet form.
It Is gaining popularity worldwide as the best adaptogen supplement, meaning that it helps your body cope with stress. According to a study, workplace stress has gone up by a whopping 20%, and anxiety in young people continues to rise exponentially in the last decade.
Well, worry no more because in this article you will find everything you need to know about Ashwagandha. You will also discover the best Ashwagandha Supplements you need to buy from reputable health brands. We’ve taken in mind the supplement’s label, absorption, affordability, and general reputation.
1. Physician’s Choice Organic Ashwagandha (Best Overall)
- 1950mg per serving
- Third party tested for purity
- Black pepper for improved absorption
- Affordable
- A highly preferred choice on amazon
- Not specific on Withanolide composition, which is a crucial active ingredient
Highly rated than all the rest here, affordable and organic, Physician’s Choice Ashwagandha is 100% powdered roots. No fillers, no leaves, just a concentration of ashwagandha root. It is USDA certified and contains 1950mg of organic Ashwagandha powdered root per serving.
It is also fortified with black pepper for enhanced absorption. Physician’s Choice Ashwagandha is ethically sourced, and third party tested for purity, and is encapsulated in vegetarian capsules.
This product is a strong contender for the best overall title but they should’ve been specific about withanolide content.
2. NutriRise Organic Ashwagandha
- Organic
- Black pepper for enhanced absorption
- Third-party tested for purity
- the label isn’t specific in the withanolide concentration per gram
If you’ve had enough of anxiety attacks, irritability, insomnia, amnesia, menopausal hot flushes, and stress, you need to balance out your cortisol levels to manage your stress levels better.
Ashwagandha from NutriRise, though not specific on withanolides concentration, is made from 100% powdered root, which is known to have high concentrations of the same.
It is sourced and made in the USA. For those who are rather patriotic, then this is the choice for you. The NutriRise Ashwagandha is third party tested, so you know you’re getting 100% of what’s on the label. It is sugar-free, gluten-free and dairy-free; keto, paleo, and vegan friendly.
With 1300mg per serving, it is slightly lacking than the other contenders in this list but still high in ranking compared to most others out there. It also contains black pepper to optimize absorption into the body tissues.
3. Himalaya Organic Ashwagandha
- Each serving contains 1260mg of clinically potent Ashwagandha extract.
- Affordable
- USDA certified as organic
- 0.2% withanolide
- Third-party tested
- Relatively low amounts of withanolide
Why not substitute your caffeine and energy drinks with America’s Best Selling Organic Ashwagandha? This product is not only affordable but also gives you a healthy alternative to kick-starting your energy levels. Unlike energy drinks, it provides steady, daily energy while balancing the body without overstimulating your heart, which leaves you jittery.
It is 100% plant-based and non-GMO verified. As if that’s not enough, each Himalaya Ashwagandha capsule is totally free from additives, gluten, corn, wheat, soy, and dairy. Likewise, each tablet contains not just simple crushed Ashwagandha powder but genuine clinical-strength extract.
The Himalaya Ashwagandha is an all-rounded, relatively affordable, ethically sourced option. With over 90% 5-star ratings, we’re not the only ones who believe it’s the perfect Indian Ginseng.
4. NutraHerbals Ashwagandha With Black Pepper Extract
- 100% root powder
- Has black pepper for quick absorption
- Non GMO
- Vegan friendly
- This product is not clear on how much withanolide is included
- A bit pricey compared to others
- Although the label says Organic, it has not been certified by the USDA.
Although slightly pricey, this product is made from powdered Ashwagandha root meaning it has high concentrations of withanolide, although again, not specific on how much.
It is fortified with black pepper, so you’re sure of efficient and quick absorption for better results.
5. Gaia Herbs Ashwagandha Root
- Liquid phyto-caps to ensure quick and efficient absorption
- Organic
- 2.5 mg of withanolide
- Third-party tested
- Value for money
- Slightly pricey for its serving compared to Himalaya
Gaia Herbs Ashwagandha is packed with a whopping 2,700 milligrams per serving of root powder and extract. It has an impressive 2.5 mg of the active ingredient withanolide per capsule.
Gaia Herbs’ lab prides itself on clean production, rigorous testing, total ingredient transparency, and innovative technology such as their Liquid Phyto-Caps technology. This technology enables efficient and thorough absorption of ashwagandha extract into the body.
The only reason this product is not number one is that there had to be a runner up in this list. Totally worth your coin!
The Ultimate Ashwagandha Buying Guide
Modern Research has proven what ancient forefathers always knew: Ashwagandha helps alleviate stress and stress related symptoms significantly. We shall discuss the benefits later, but for now, you need to look out for how to purchase the best Ashwagandha pill in the market. The most important factors are:
Ashwagandha content
How much ashwagandha should you look for in your supplements? The truth is that there’s presently no factual recommendation for the suitable dosage. Some research has found benefits with lower doses, but at this point, it’s worth getting the most concentration that’s worth your money and adjust your doses accordingly from there.
The highest dosage we found contains over 1400 mg per serving. Keep in mind that most competitors’ products contain under 1000 mg per serving so look out for that.
Withanolide content
Withanolide is the primary active ingredient in Ashwagandha. They’re naturally occurring metabolites and steroids found in most other members of the nightshade family.
The roots have a higher concentration of the same so look out for root powder Ashwagandha supplement. Few companies indicate the total composition of withanolides so we didn’t highlight that so much, but we ensured we picked one or two products with indicated withanolide composition.
Black pepper extract
A good number of these supplements contain black pepper extract (sometimes marked piperine or BioPerine®, a trademarked variant) as it has proven to help enhance absorption.
A report published by Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, Expert Opinion on Drug Metabolism & Toxicology, and Planta Medica proved that the addition of black pepper extract can support the intestines to absorb anti-inflammatory compounds.
Third party testing
The FDA hardly ever monitors nutritional supplements, so the consumers mostly rely on the benefit of the doubt that the label reads correctly. To ensure that the products contain zero toxic contaminants, third party organizations test the products for purity to ensure that the consumers are safe nonetheless.
Organic certification
Most holistic consumers prefer organic and non-GMO products. Although the potency may not always differ, we are aware of this preference and ensured to consider it when choosing the top five ashwagandha. There are several gold standard organic certifiers such as the USDA, and most of the ashwagandha in our list are in line with that. As long as there’s an “organic” label, know that at least 70% of the raw materials are sourced in line with organic standards.
Benefits of Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is a popular, widely explored and utilized supplement in various traditional texts and practices of Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and Chinese medicine due to its wide array of health benefits.
The most apparent and most known benefit of ashwagandha is its ability to boost your immunity and also to help your body manage stress. Every part of this miraculous herb is utilized for treating numerous health conditions as well as promoting the vitality, energy and longevity of a person.
Below we shall break down everything you need to know about the Ashwagandha plant and how it can help you improve your general wellbeing.
Phytochemical Constituents:
The roots of the Ashwagandha plant contain active alkaloids, amino acids, and essential oils. The leaves and fruits are loaded with flavonoids, vitamins and tannins. All these elements help deal with oxidative stress and reduction of inflammation in the body.
Benefits of the Different Parts of the Ashwagandha Plant:
Leaves: The ashwagandha leaves contain analgesic and antioxidant elements so they’re mostly used to treat viral infections, colds and flu, and alleviate chronic pain.
Flowers and Seeds: Ashwagandha flowers contain powerful diuretic and aphrodisiac elements. They’re mostly used to enhance fertility and prevent kidney diseases especially kidney stones.
The seeds possess anthelmintic properties and are taken to prevent and treat infectious and parasitic illnesses such as malaria.
Roots: The roots are the most potent part of the plant and are mostly contained in most Ashwagandha supplements in the market.
The root is a powerful aphrodisiac, diuretic, anthelmintic, antioxidant, anti-depressant, anti-diabetic. For this reason it is used to treat neural problems, infertility, diabetes, skin disorders, constipation among others.
More Benefits of Ashwagandha
1. Enhanced Fertility
The root is most effective in the treatment of fertility challenges.
It is normally dried under direct sunlight and crushed to a powder.
On the male reproductive system, Ashwagandha root powder has potent spermatogenic elements that help to treat low sperm count, low volume of semen, sperm motility, abnormal sperm shape, and overall boosts sperm production. It is also a natural antioxidant which helps enhance efficient production of male hormones which include the luteinizing hormone and testosterone. It has also been proven to treat premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction.
On the female Reproductive System Ashwagandha helps to treat endometriosis and support the female organs to function optimally. It also balances hormone levels within the body system. It’s advisable to use regularly when trying to conceive.
In both women and men, Ashwagandha root helps to put them at ease and boosts virility and endurance.
2. Boosts Brain and Nerve Health
Ashwagandha powder helps treat brain issues such as dementia, Alzheimers, and neural problems like depression, anxiety among others. It is incredibly beneficial in the treatment of a variety of psychotic issues by normalizing stress hormone concentrations in the body.
As an antidepressant, Ashwagandha supplements regulate cortisol and serotonin levels in turn reducing a wide variety of symptoms such as irritability, restlessness, lack of sleep, uneasiness, cold hands, and feet, among others.
3. Treats Insomnia
Ashwagandha’s scientific(botanical) name is Withania somnifera.
‘Somnifera’ means ‘sleep-inducive’ which tells you all you need to know about the supplement. If you suffer from insomnia and other sleep disorders then you could benefit from the drug.
The anti-stress and anxiolytic elements of ashwagandha aid in quieting the mind and calming the body. Take the supplement to regulate your sleeping cycle and help you sleep soundly preferably before bed.
4. Improves Immunity:
This potent drug is well documented to improve vitality and the body ability to fight illnesses. Besides, it helps lower the general stress levels while boosting energy levels of the body. Stress has been linked to numerous health issues. It also helps rejuvenate the body thereby helping to reduce fatigue and fatigue. Ashwagandha also streamlines the function of the adrenal and thyroid glands which are directly related to an individual’s general well being.
Additionally, although studies have not concluded whether Ashwagandha cures cancer, numerous studies have found that the herb has significant potential in killing cancer cells. According to a published report by the American Society Of Clinical Oncology, Withanolides were able to arrest the growth of breast, colon, and lung cancer cells without an effect on normal cells.
Another research performed on mice 🙁 found that in conjunction with anti-cancer cells, Ashwagandha reduced tumors by up to 80% and prevented further spread of cancer across the body.
5. Improves Bone Health:
Ashwagandha is highly praised for dealing with bone health and joint inflammation. Taking these supplements strengthens your bones, decreases the risk of fracture, sustains overall body equilibrium, and gives the body a healthy and strong skeletal structure. It is therefore useful in the treatment of reduced muscle mass and conditions such as muscle atrophy, fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, and osteoporosis.
6. Improves Underweight Conditions:
Ancient Ayurvedic medicine recommends taking Ashwagandha dried leaves and milk daily to improve and enhance the integrity of skeletal and muscle mass and also for healthy weight gain. This drink offers healthy nourishment to the body, balances body fat, and boosts the health of bones and muscles.
7. Manages Diabetes
The exceptional hypoglycemic property of ashwagandha plays a crucial role in balancing the blood sugar levels in the blood. Ashwagandha supports the production of insulin from the pancreatic β-cells. It helps to appropriately slow down the breakdown of carbohydrates into glucose which then leads to lower blood glucose levels. It’s worth noting that Ashwangandha’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels was comparable to the standard oral diabetic medication. The flavonoids in the leaves and roots were also found to successfully balance blood sugar levels in rats.
8. Good for Your Heart
Ashwagandha is incredibly beneficial in the treatment of a myriad of heart conditions due to its powerful antioxidative properties. It helps to keep the heart muscles strong, prevents plaque accumulation in the blood vessels, and hence lessens the risk of heart attacks, weakening of the blood vessels and blood clots. The supplement also plays a significant role in reducing the levels of cholesterol in the blood vessels.
9. Beauty Benefits
As a natural antioxidant, Ashwagandha is used in the treatment of oxidative free-radical damage caused by the sun’s UV rays. It likewise has powerful anti-ageing properties to maintain supple, youthful skin and helps lessen the appearance of spots, blemishes, wrinkles, fine lines, and dull skin etc. Also, it diminishes acne and pimples and restores smoothness and skin.
It also benefits the hair as the antimicrobial properties of the plant ward off a variety of scalp and hair ailments. It nourishes the hair follicles with the necessary nutrients, enhances blood circulation, and soothes the hair from deep down.
10. Stops Pain and Inflammation
The potent anti-inflammatory properties of the bioactive components in Ashwagandha makes it the suitable option for providing relief from pain, discomfort, and inflammation. It is also exceptionally helpful against various types of arthritis and autoimmune inflammation. By reducing the markers of inflammation, it strengthens the immune white blood cells that fight infection. It also instantly alleviates and soothes burning sensations in parts of the body.
11. Normalizes Thyroid Hormone Levels
The thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland that is found in the neck near the Adam’s apple. Ashwagandha is incredibly effective at balancing the production of different hormones that are secreted in the thyroid. The over (hyperthyroidism) or under (hypothyroidism) production of these hormones leads to many issues including hair loss, weight loss, fatigue, obesity, brain fog etc.
12. Improves Cognitive Functioning
The potent antioxidants and flavonoids in ashwagandha have high significance in enhancing and improving memory, concentration, focus, calmness, and alertness of a person. The herb is a powerful brain tonic in that it actively facilitates antioxidant activity to prevent damage of the nerve cells from harmful free radical damage. It thereby reduces oxidative stress and improves alertness, memory, reasoning, problem-solving, among other cognitive abilities.
Frequently Asked Questions (Faqs)
Q: What is the Right Ashwagandha Dosage:
The dosage should be in line with your condition, age, and as advised by the ayurvedic doctor or health practitioner. It is typically taken 2 to 3 times every day for adults. It can be taken with warm milk for best results.
Q: Should You Take Ashwagandha Every Day?
The recommended daily dosage really depends on your needs, but positive results have been reported from dosages of as low as 250 mg a day. If you’re unsure of what dose is appropriate for you, consult with your doctor who may have to take some tests and prescribe the right amount for you.
Q: Should I take Ashwagandha Before or After Meals?
Ashwagandha can be taken 2 times a day preferably on an empty stomach before bed and in the morning. Take it with a warm glass of milk. According to NCBI, it has no known adverse effects on the majority of people.
Q: How Quickly Does Ashwagandha Work?
If you also practice a healthy lifestyle, Ashwagandha should take a maximum of two weeks to positively benefit the body. Remember that supplements can help nourish your body even better in conjunction with healthy habits.
Q: What is An Adaptogen?
To be classified as an adaptogenic, herbs have to meet three distinct standards:
- Non-toxic to the body
- Alleviate stress and regulate the body’s ability to cope with stress
- Enhance the overall wellbeing of the body
Ashwagandha Side Effects:
Overdosage of the herb may have some negative effects such as acidity, heartburn, GERD, gastritis, sour mouth, ulcer, and other mild contraindications. If you have other existing illnesses or are under medication consult your doctor before taking herbal supplements.
The formulation should not be taken by pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Conclusion:
Since time immemorial, this magical herb has been highly revered in a variety of ayurvedic scrolls as the “Queen of Herbs” owing to its extraordinary health benefits. This wonderful medicinal herb is classified as an adaptogen as it helps the body cope healthily with stress and anxiety.
As a strong aphrodisiac, it enhances libido, remedies chronic infertility issues and treats various issues within the reproductive organs in both men and women. Furthermore, it promotes better functioning of the heart and circulatory system, supports brain health and improves the body’s ability to deal with illnesses.
To enjoy these benefits and much more, click on one of the links to check out the latest discount and full product details and don’t forget to let us know what you think.