Top 5 Ashwagandha Supplements To Help Reduce Stress And Enhance Focus
In the United States, there is an increasing number of prescribed antidepressants and antianxiety medications, many of which have an alarming list of adverse effects. If you're looking for an all-natural way to reduce anxiety and stress levels, and enhance focus and sleep quality, then Ashwagandha may be the herb for you!
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine. It has a long history of use for relieving stress, enhancing cognitive function, and improving overall well-being.
It's wonderful that Mother Nature has an abundance of natural alternatives that can reduce anxiety and help us feel more calm and relaxed. This blog post will discuss the top 5 best Ashwagandha supplements and various health benefits.
My Selection Process
Searching for a high-quality Ashwagandha supplement can be overwhelming. To help you get started, I have done extensive research and carefully selected various options to ensure they meet my high standards.
All supplements included in this article are tested rigorously for ingredient potency and contaminants like heavy metals and microbes. I hope this makes your decision more effortless than ever before. Keep reading to discover the best Ashwagandha supplement.
Moon Juice Ashwagandha Root Powder Extract
Best for natural stress relief and mood support.
Why I Dig It
Moon Juice's organic Ashwagandha root powder is a 15:1 full-spectrum extract. Moon Juice's extract comes from Madhya Pradesh, India, and each scoop provides 250 mg of Ashwagandha.
When taken daily between 1/4 and 1/2 teaspoon, this supplement helps significantly reduce stress levels while also reducing irritability. It's vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO verified. With a dark brown powder that boasts a slightly bitter yet, molasses-like flavor, this organic Ashwagandha powder can be paired well with many different flavors like chocolate or coffee and included in baked goods for an extra tasty treat.
The Data Dump
The belief in natural ingredients has led Moon Juice to invest heavily in its products, ensuring that only the purest form of herbs are used in each creation without compromising their high-quality standards.
Moon Juice performs third-party testing for bio-identity, heavy metals, pesticides, and mycotoxins — so you know you're buying a safe and effective product. I contacted the company, and they informed me that they would not provide a Certificate of Analysis because it contains proprietary information regarding their formulas. However, they have a team of doctors and herbalists that make sure every blend is effective.
So if you want your mind sharper than ever before and your spirits uplifted, then you may want to try Moon Juice's Ashwagandha root powder.
Pure Synergy Stress Remedy
Best for natural stress relief.
Why I Dig It
Pure Synergy's Stress Remedy is a stress-relieving product that is the perfect pick-me-up when you feel overwhelmed or overworked. This vegan blend includes nine powerful organic herbal extracts, including 600 mg of organic Ashwagandha root extract. Also, it is non-GMO, dairy-free, and gluten-free. This powerful blend will help give you mental clarity, elevate your mood and provide that extra focus to stay sharp throughout your day.
And best of all– each serving provides you with a healthy dose of unique adaptogens that are clinically researched to strengthen your body's defenses against stress and fatigue.
The Data Dump
Pure Synergy rigorously tests all products throughout production, so you can trust that you're getting a high-quality herbal supplement. Each ingredient is inspected for heavy metals, microbes, pesticides, solvent residues, gluten, vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and active compounds using both internal and third-party testing.
They even go one step further by performing these tests four separate times. This level of testing is far higher than most industry standards – providing absolute peace of mind when it comes to what you're putting into your body.
With their innovative formulation and trusted production methods, Pure Synergy Stress Remedy is a reliable way to deal with your stress levels and a wise choice for those seeking optimal health. Pure Synergy is a company I trust; I have used several supplements for the last few years. Also, I love that this is an organic Ashwagandha supplement!
Designs for Health TriGandha
Best for stress response support.
Why I Dig It
Designs for Health TriGandha is an excellent option to help you unwind from everyday stress. This 3-in-1 Ashwagandha supplement contains potent, premium extracts that may help reduce anxiety and promote adrenal health. TriGandha is formulated with industry-leading Ashwagandha sources which include Sensoril®, NooGhanda®, and a high-quality standardized extract derived from whole plant extracts (root and leaf) to provide optimal efficacy and bioactive diversity. Each capsule provides 650 mg of Ashwagandha extracts.
Sensoril® Ashwagandha is claimed to be the most potent form available on the market, with eight times the strength of standard Ashwagandha. Sensoril® is derived from specially-grown Ashwagandha leaves and roots through a patented, water-based process.
NooGhanda® is a high-quality standardized extract derived from whole plant extracts (root and leaf). NooGandha® is a specialized cognitive-enhancing, nootropic-focused Ashwagandha that has powerful anti-stress benefits. This supplement does not contain GMOs, soy, gluten, or dairy - making it a great choice for vegans and vegetarians.
The Data Dump
Designs for Health offers high-quality nutritional supplements with simple ingredients that are backed by science. Every batch undergoes third-party testing to ensure it complies with FDA standards and testing for unwanted pesticides, heavy metals, or microbiological organisms.
Also, Designs for Health complies with FDA Good Manufacturing Practices. I contacted the company about providing Certificates of Analysis (CoA) and they informed me that CoA's could only be requested through your healthcare practitioner.
Ancient Nutrition Ashwagandha
Best for stress relief and reducing fatigue.
Why I Dig It
Ancient Nutrition’s Ashwagandha packs a powerful punch! This blend provides 800 mg per serving and contains clinically studied USDA organic Ashwagandha to help reduce mental stress, improve focus and clarity, promote a healthy outlook, and give you an extra boost of energy. With its natural blend of Ashwagandha and organic fermented black pepper fruit, absorption and digestion won't be an issue so you can get the most out of your supplement.
You don't have to worry about compromising other dietary preferences; this supplement is keto, paleo, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, dairy-free, and non-GMO!
The Data Dump
Ancient Nutrition manufactures high-quality dietary supplements that adhere to Current Good Manufacturing Practices, ensuring the safety and efficacy of their product. All the ingredients have gone through rigorous research, and each has been documented to be safe and effective.
I contacted the company and was told they do not provide their Certificates of Analysis (CoA) to the public, as their CoA's often include proprietary information about the company and its manufacturing partners. Ancient Nutrition tests for heavy metals, microbial growth, and pathogenic species, giving you peace of mind that you're consuming something of quality.
Gaia Herbs Ashwagandha Root
Best for supporting balanced energy and stress relief.
Why I Dig It
Gaia Herbs' organic Ashwagandha is here to help you maintain a balanced lifestyle. This delightful supplement helps relieve stress, so you won't have to worry about feeling anxious. Each serving provides 350 mg of Ashwagandha.
Not only that – this all-natural herbal supplement also offers powerful antioxidant properties that'll keep your immune system functioning at its best. Gaia Herbs has ensured their Ashwagandha extract is vegan, gluten-free, and proudly made in North Carolina.
The Data Dump
Every batch of Gaia Herbs' products undergoes rigorous purity testing, meaning it's free from pesticides and heavy metals and is perfectly safe for consumption. Plus, with DNA testing, you know exactly what's in the bottle.
I contacted Gaia Herbs and they informed me that they utilize third-party testing as needed; thus, most of their testing is performed in-house. However, Gaia Herbs provides the Certificates of Analysis on their website; click "Meet the Herbs" and enter the herb ID on the bottle.
Gaia Herbs is registered by the FDA, and a third-party lab audits their facilities to ensure the scientific validity of the instruments and methods.
So don't settle for low-grade herbal supplements - consider making Gaia Herbs part of your daily routine to stay happy and healthy all day long.
Benefits of Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha, also known as Indian winter cherry or Indian ginseng, is an Ayurvedic herb that has been used in India and Pakistan for thousands of years. Its name derives from the Sanskrit words ashwa (meaning horse) and gandha (smell), due to its distinct aroma resembling a horse's scent. Consuming Ashwagandha is said to give you the strength of a horse. The species name Somnifera can be translated from Latin as "sleep-inducing," thus it can be used as a traditional remedy for sleep.
Clinical trials and animal research have long established that Ashwagandha offers a variety of remarkable benefits for improving health. Its unique properties help reduce stress and anxiety while supporting immune function; it's even been shown to effectively treat inflammation. Ashwagandha has been studied in human cell models, demonstrating its anti-cancer properties that protect against various types of cancer, including breast, prostate, colon, pancreatic, and lung.
Additionally, its cardiac-specific effects are linked to a reduced risk of atherosclerosis, hypertension, and coronary heart disease due to Ashwagandha's ability to reduce the sensitivity of the heart to adrenergic stimulation (i.e., your fight-or-flight response). Studies further indicate that this herb may also benefit those with mild cognitive impairment by enhancing memory and improving executive function, attention, and information processing speed.
A study examining people suffering from chronic stress found that 300 mg of Ashwagandha root extract, given twice daily, can significantly reduce cortisol levels (i.e., the hormone associated with stress) by 28% in just 2 months. Also, they discovered that Ashwagandha improved individual resistance to stress and the participant's quality of life. A study conducted in 2017 concluded that Ashwagandha root extract could be used for weight management as well as reducing food cravings and serum cortisol levels in adults suffering from chronic stress. All in all, Ashwagandha is a powerful herbal remedy!
Ashwagandha FAQs
Through the power of research, I'm here to offer you an all-encompassing guide about the best Ashwagandha supplements. My mission is to arm you with comprehensive knowledge so that you can make well-informed decisions about your health and wellness journey!
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Ashwagandha is an ancient herb used in Ayurvedic medicine for its numerous health benefits. Ashwagandha supplements can help people cope with stress and anxiety, improve cognitive performance, reduce inflammation, boost immunity and fertility, and increase energy and overall vitality.
Studies have demonstrated that Ashwagandha can help to lower cortisol levels by reducing stress hormones in the body. This decrease can improve the ability to handle daily stressors better while promoting a sense of calmness and balanced emotions. Additionally, it has been found to enhance memory capacity and learning abilities. This evidence supports why Ashwagandha supplements are becoming one of today's most popular natural remedies. -
Numerous research studies have reported the safety and efficacy of Ashwagandha extract. These studies found that Ashwagandha is safe for all age groups, males and females, and even during pregnancy. Thus, Ashwagandha supplements can be a safe medicinal herb for treating various diseases and mental health conditions as well as supporting the body's stress response.
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The recommended dosage for Ashwagandha depends on your health goals and individual needs. Generally speaking, it is safe to take 500-1,000 mg of a high-quality Ashwagandha supplement per day. Long-term supplementation (i.e., 6–12 months) appears necessary to achieve the desired effect, so consistency is vital when taking this supplement.
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Ashwagandha is considered a safe and nontoxic supplement. Some people have reported having an upset stomach or feeling nauseous after consuming Ashwagandha capsules. Additionally, since Ashwagandha may act like a sedative, people particularly sensitive to the herb have reported experiencing drowsiness and fatigue after taking it.
Be sure to speak with your healthcare provider if you have any medical conditions or take any medications that might interact with the herb. -
Ashwagandha is an incredibly beneficial herb for women. It has various health benefits, including reducing anxiety and stress, boosting mood, improving sexual function, and balancing hormones.
Menopausal women taking Ashwagandha supplements for 8 weeks had significantly higher estrogen levels than those not taking the supplement. Also, Ashwagandha supplementation effectively relieved mild to moderate climacteric symptoms (i.e., hot flashes, sweating, mood changes, and insomnia).
Overall, Ashwagandha is a potent herb that can provide tremendous health benefits for women. -
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that helps the body cope with stress and anxiety more effectively. Studies have shown that taking Ashwagandha may help improve overall mood, reduce stress, increase energy, and support better sleep. Additionally, it can boost your immune system and reduce inflammation, enhancing mental clarity and physical performance.
In terms of how it specifically makes you feel, many report feeling a significant decrease in anxiety within days of starting regular supplementation with Ashwagandha. However, this varies from person to person depending on individual responses and dosage taken each day. The overall consensus among users is that they experience enhanced concentration and focus after taking this powerful herb combined with increased feelings of relaxation like they’ve just had a great night’s sleep without the drowsy after-effects associated with sleeping pills or melatonin supplements. Taking Ashwagandha can make you feel balanced yet energized, relaxed but not sedated, and calm and focused on tasks. -
The answer to this question is "it depends." While its effects can be felt almost immediately for some people, others may need to take it for several weeks before seeing any results. Many of the research studies conducted on humans have seen significant changes in 4-8 weeks, but it's important to note that everyone's body responds differently when taking Ashwagandha.
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Yes, Ashwagandha can make you feel sleepy and tired. This is due to its anti-stress, anti-anxiety, and sedative properties that help the body relax and calm down.
Ashwagandha has long been used as an herb for relaxation since it helps in reducing cortisol levels which are related to stress. Ashwagandha may help people sleep better by decreasing mental fatigue and improving the overall quality of sleep. Therefore, taking Ashwagandha could be beneficial if you're looking for a natural way to reduce stress levels while getting a good night's rest at the same time. -
Ashwagandha may help improve hormone levels by reducing inflammation and regulating cortisol levels. Additionally, a study conducted in 2018 found that hypothyroid patients given Ashwagandha supplements for 8 weeks can effectively normalize thyroid hormones like thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), serum triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroxine (T4), which are important regulators of metabolism in the body.
The active components in Ashwagandha are plant-based compounds called withanolides. These compounds work as adaptogens in the body by promoting a sense of well-being while fighting off fatigue and negative emotions. Research has demonstrated that treatment with Ashwagandha can reduce cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, in individuals suffering from high anxiety. This helps to combat feelings of nervousness and provides additional relaxation for both mind and body. Thus demonstrating that this powerful herb can indeed impact hormones in the body by helping regulate them naturally without any known side effects or toxicity.
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Yes, Ashwagandha can put you in a good mood! This ancient Ayurvedic herb has been used for centuries to boost energy levels, reduce stress, and even help improve cognitive function.
Research has shown Ashwagandha helps to regulate hormones like cortisol and serotonin. These are key regulators of our stress response system; when they're out of balance they can cause depression or anxiety. By balancing these hormones with Ashwagandha, many people find that their overall mood improves significantly.
The Recap
So there you have it - my list of the top 5 best Ashwagandha supplements, along with helpful information to equip you to make an informed decision. Have fun exploring the vast world of Ashwagandha supplements.
You may discover that one brand works better than another, or a particular combination of ingredients helps enhance the effects. Remember, no two bodies are the same, so don't be afraid to try new things and experiment. Enjoy your supplementing journey - may it reap many benefits!
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