Ashwagandha, or rather the root of Ashwagandha is often known as the Indian ginseng. It is a popular adaptogenic herb in Ayurvedic medicine and recent studies have shown that it has great potential as a natural treatment for anxiety.
The word Ashwagandha means the smell of a horse indicating that the herb has the potential to impart the vigor and strength of a stallion. The ashwagandha root is also reported to have a smell reminiscent of horse sweat. Traditionally Ashwagandha has been described as a nerve tonic and an adaptogen That’s an agent that helps the body adapt to various emotional and physical stresses.
It has been used in India for nearly 5000 years for conditions in children’s weaknesses, stability in old age, rheumatism, constipation, insomnia, nervous conditions, stress, joint inflammation, hormone imbalance, and more. it’s usually made into a paste from the ashwagandha root powder applied topically to treat boils ulcers in other skin irritations in infections.
Before going into the detail of the best ashwagandha supplements let me tell you some important uses of ashwagandha.
Amazing health uses and benefits of ashwagandha for men and women
Ashwagandha is one of the most powerful herbs in healing. it’s been used since ancient times for a wide variety of conditions. it’s well known for its restorative and rejuvenating benefits.
Ashwagandha is known to help people strengthen their immune system after illness, chemotherapy or surgery. it is a highly effective evidence-based remedy to help reduce stress and anxiety by lowering cortisol levels and mimicking the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA.
Ashwagandha uses
Let’s take a look at ashwagandha benefits for women and men.
1. Ashwagandha for Stress And Anxiety (ashwagandha for depression)
Ashwagandha promotes balance in many different systems of the body and can help the body adapt to stress and provide calming support when the body is in fight-or-flight mode. It releases the stress hormone cortisol between constant deadlines, financial pressures, digital overload, and a steady stream of negative news. The chronic stress of modern human culture readily activates the cortisol stress response which can impact the nervous system function. Ashwagandha is good for and has been shown to support healthy levels of cortisol and the healthy inflammatory processes that are stimulated in response to stress.
The researchers reported that it blocks the path of stress in the brain of rats by adjusting chemical signals in the nervous system.
some clinical research shows that ashwagandha is good for reducing some symptoms of anxiety or anxious mood.
2. Hormonal imbalances
Fertility can result from an abnormality affecting other hormonal systems including the hypothalamus, pituitary thyroid, and adrenal glands.
A double-blind control study showed a significant increase in the t4 hormone indicating ashwagandha may be beneficial for normalizing thyroid indices in subclinical hypothyroid patients. This makes ashwagandha a potentially useful tool in the natural treatment of hyperthyroidism.
3. Ashwagandha Improves Male Fertility
Ashwagandha can help improve male fertility and sperm count.
A study has shown that Ashwagandha supplements can have a big impact on testosterone levels and reproductive health.
4. As potent Antioxidants
Ashwagandha is rich in antioxidants that seek and destroy the free radicals implicated in aging and numerous diseases. Antioxidant levels play a critical role in the health of not only all of the cells that make up the body but those of sperm and egg health as well. Increasing antioxidant levels has been shown to improve sperm and egg health.
5. May reduce inflammation
Ashwagandha has been shown to increase the activity of natural killer cells and decrease inflammatory markers.
This study in animals showed that Ashwagandha is good for inflammation. While Human studies have shown that it increases the activity of natural killer cells, immune cells that fight infections and help you stay healthy.
6. Improves Brainpower
Ashwagandha improves memory, increases spatial and visual memory, decreases oxidized brain stress and helps prevent nerve cell degeneration.
In one animal study, rats with epilepsy treated with Ashwagandha almost completely reversed their spatial memory disorders. This was probably caused by a reduction in oxidative stress.
7. Ashwagandha is great for Cancer prevention
Ashwagandha has been shown to disrupt the cancer cell’s ability to effectively reproduce. This is due to its anti-angiogenic activity that ashwagandha contains in which it prevents cancer cells from forming new blood vessels that support its growth.
One study showed that ashwagandha produced a marked increase in lifespan and a decrease in overall tumor weight. In animals with cancer of the lymphatic system reducing cancer growth and improving the immune system is one of the major life-changing health benefits of ashwagandha.
According to study withaferin — a compound in ashwagandha is believed to promote the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cancer cells and interfere with their function. Second, cancer cells may become less resistant to apoptosis.
8. Ashwagandha reduces cortisol levels
Which we’ve covered on before in the largest human trial using ashwagandha. This herb was shown to reduce cortisol levels by up to 26%. Chronically elevated cortisol increases inflammatory and degenerative processes in the body additionally the participants had a lowered fasting blood sugar level as well. A study has shown that ashwagandha may help reduce cortisol levels.
9. Parkinson’s disease
Preliminary research suggests that a combination of herbs including ashwagandha improves Parkinson’s symptoms although the effect of ashwagandha alone in Parkinson is unknown.
The study confirms that Ashwagandha is a potent neuroprotective agent and, therefore, plays an important role in the improvement of Parkinson’s disease.
10. Ashwagandha for weight loss (Weight Management)
One of the most common conditions is obesity. One study of 52 adults under chronic stress took a placebo or 300 milligrams of ashwagandha twice per day. After eight weeks the placebo group had lost 1.5 percent of body weight compared to three percent of those taking ashwagandha. Body mass index scores also improved in the placebo group improved 1.4 percent and the ashwagandha group improved 3 percent.
This study shows that taking Ashwagandha is associated with a significant increase in muscle mass and strength, and suggests that taking Ashwagandha along with strength training may be helpful.
11. Increased energy adaptogens
Like ashwagandha seemed to naturally boost energy levels by supporting the central nervous system. The ashwagandha energy boost is more balanced and it’s usually apparent as an increased ability and stamina to perform normal tasks for their tiring easily.
Clinical studies have shown that ashwagandha use results in higher blood cell production and enhances circulation. Researchers could contribute this to high energy levels since every cell and organ in the body requires a good supply of oxygen-rich blood for optimum performance.
12. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder that’s ADHD
Some clinical research shows that a combination of the product containing ashwagandha may improve attention and impulse control in children with ADHD. The effect of ashwagandha alone is unclear.
13. Bipolar disorder
Taking a specific ashwagandha extract for eight weeks may improve brain function and people being treated for bipolar disorder.
14. Ashwagandha for High cholesterol
Ashwagandha can help improve cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels. This study has shown that ashwagandha may reduce cholesterol levels in patients with high cholesterol. This has not been scientifically proven though and there’s still some research to be carried out.
15. Osteoarthritis
Early research shows that ashwagandha taken along with a zinc complex might improve arthritis symptoms. The impact of ashwagandha alone though is unclear.
16. Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Early research shows that ashwagandha root extract might reduce symptoms of OCD. when taken with prescribed medications for six weeks better than taking the prescribed medication alone.
Ashwagandha Side Effects
Now let’s take a look at the ashwagandha side effects And its recommended doses.
Generally safe for pretty much everyone but there are a few side effects to consider
- It can cause gut problems yes there can be too much of a good thing and in large doses of ashwagandha, it has been shown to cause diarrhea and stomach pain.
- It might also raise thyroid hormone levels. Ashwagandha might raise levels of people with an overactive thyroid or hyperthyroidism should be cautious if you suspect you have a thyroid problem. Ask your doctor to run tests on thyroid health and advise you whether you should be adding this herb to your routine.
- It can irritate your autoimmune condition since ashwagandha is technically part of the nightshade family. They can have the potential to irritate those with an autoimmune condition especially those with autoimmune joint pain.
Is Ashwagandha Safe?
Although used on a large scale, ashwagandha is generally considered safe and without major adverse effects. There have been no reported increases in serum enzymes during treatment and no cases of serious adverse events or hepatotoxicity have been reported in clinical studies. However, several cases of clinically apparent liver toxicity have been reported in patients taking commercially available herbal products labeled as Ashwagandha. Although the negative effects are very low in number and need more research in this aspect.
Ashwagandha pregnancy
Avoid Ashwagandha supplement in pregnancy as It is considered unsafe during pregnancy. There is evidence that Ashwagandha can cause miscarriages. The use of Ashwagandha during breastfeeding is little known. Be careful and avoid it.
How to use Ashwagandha? (Ashwagandha Dosage)
It’s important to remember that everyone’s makeup is unique so what works for one person won’t necessarily work for the other. Talk to your doctor before adding adaptogens to your routine and ask if they can advise on your Signs. To conclude ashwagandha is a wide range of actions that can balance the body in many ways.
You’re going to need more than one pill if you want to feel the full effects. it doesn’t taste good and smells like horses so the pill form can be better. It shouldn’t be taken if pregnant because it may induce an abortion.
- Ashwagandha dosage in cortisol reduction is 125 mg to 5 grams daily for 1–3 months.
- Ashwagandha dosage for anxiety reduction is 500–600 mg of ashwagandha per day for 6–12 weeks.
- Ashwagandha dosage for muscle growth and strength is 500 mg daily.
Best Ashwagandha brands
There are different brands of ashwagandha available on the market. We will discuss some of the best and most commonly used ashwagandha supplements.
1. NutrRise Ashwagandha
(Best Seller)
NutriRise Ashwagandha, contains only organic ashwagandha, organic black pepper, and a vegan cellulose capsule. It is also one of the few products tested by third parties, so you can be sure that it does not contain heavy metals.
This Ashwagandha root supplement does not contain fillers, binders, nuts, eggs, shellfish, crustaceans, and other common allergens. In addition, tests are performed after each critical production step to ensure that our products are free of adulterants, residual solvents, aflatoxins, microbiological pathogens and heavy metals such as mercury.
Benefits
- Come from certified organic farming.
- Tested by third parties to ensure that it does not contain heavy metals or allergens.
- They offer a 100% money-back guarantee
Disadvantages
- The costs per milligram are not as ideal as with the other inputs.
- The label does not indicate the amount of active ingredient, including ethanol.
Bottom Line
This Ashwagandha supplement is 100% Pure and is best for Stress Relief, Anti-Anxiety, Adrenal, Mood & Thyroid Support. This is also one of the best selling ashwagandha supplement on Amazon.
2. NaturaLife Labs Organic Ashwagandha
(Editor Choice)
NaturaLife Lab’s organic Ashwagandha contains 2,100 milligrams per serving divided by 50/50: half is a root powder, the other half is a root extract. There is much to love here, an important factor is a fact that the amount of withanolides, the active ingredient of Ashwagandha, is revealed.
This is one of the few Ashwagandha preparations where the withanolides content is given on the label that represents the active ingredient in the plant.
Benefits
- Tested by third parties to ensure the accuracy of the labels.
- With 2,100 milligrams per serving, it contains the strongest dose ever seen.
- Pleasantly Potent Ashwagandha
- 100% satisfaction or money-back guarantee
- No filler and binders used
Disadvantages
- Some customers complain that it can cause a headache.
Bottom Line
This is manufactured in an FDA registered facility in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). As with many other Ashwagandha options, This is the best ashwagandha brand and consumers can be sure that their supplements do not contain gluten, soy, and dairy products and do not contain GMO ingredients.
3. Physician’s Choice Ashwagandha supplement
(Runner Up)
With 1,950 milligrams of ashwagandha per serving and an additional black pepper extract to increase absorption, Physician’s Choice Ashwagandha has produced an outstanding product. It stands out in the market because it has been tested by others for the accuracy of labels, heavy metals, and other contaminants, and has been certified organic by the USDA. In short Physician’s choice is the best ashwagandha brand available on the market.
Benefits
- It offers a fixed serving of 1,950 milligrams per serving.
- Tested by third parties and includes the results on Amazon.
- The addition of pepper extract facilitates the absorption of the product.
- the best ashwagandha for sleep, anxiety, and thyroid support
Disadvantage
- This product is a bit expensive.
- The label gives no indication of the content of withanolide, the active ingredient of Ashwagandha.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for an affordable Ashwagandha supplement, you have found it. Physician’s choice manufactures the highest quality Ashwagandha pills you can buy today and offers them at a very reasonable price.
4. Organic India Ashwagandha
(Best Ashwagandha Brand)
Organic India Ashwagandha was originally made by a group of people who met in northern India over a century ago. This is one of the best Ashwagandha supplements available in the market today.
With 800 mg of Ashwagandha root extract, this supplement offers not only many benefits, but also an easy-to-use option for many lifestyles. Organic India Ashwagandha is not only organic but also vegan, gluten-free, kosher and halal certified.
Features
- Organic
- 800mg ashwagandha root extract
- Non-GMO
- Vegan
- Kosher and Halal certified
- Gluten-free
Benefits
- Improve thyroid function and support reproductive health for men and women
- quick natural way to relieve anxiety and insomnia
- Boosts adrenal health
- soothe back pain and joint ache
Disadvantages
- May cause nausea in some people
Bottom Line
The purchase of this Ashwagandha food supplement not only guarantees a choice that changes health, but also a choice characterized by a holistic and natural approach.
5. NutraHerbals Ashwagandha
(Best Value)
Nutra Herbals offers a product that surpasses other Ashwagandha supplements per serving and not only offers the benefits of this group of supplements but also contributes to better absorption. Unlike its counterparts, Nutra Herbals has added black pepper to its mixture, making it truly unique.
Since bioavailability is an essential part of the use of supplements, adding black pepper will help your body absorb ashwagandha extract for a more effective result. Nutra Herbals also offers vegan, soy, milk and no additives formula. This powerful and popular supplement option regularly performs its function.
The usual recommended dose as a dietary supplement is 2 capsules 1 time per day, preferably with a meal, or as recommended by a healthcare professional.
Benefits
- Best for anxiety, body pain, depression, and other conditions
- Postmenopausal symptoms
- calming effect
- They offer a 100% money-back guarantee
- Manufactured in the USA with an FDA approved facility following strict GMP guidelines.
Disadvantages
- sometimes cause upset stomach, flatulence, belching, stomach pain and GI problems
- This is in the supplements category, so These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.
Bottom Line
This product is great if you are stress, have depression, ADHD, postmenopausal symptoms and other conditions that can be treated with a common ashwagandha supplement. Although you easily overcome some budget constraints, this supplement still deserves the attention you need to determine which supplement is best for you.
6. Planetary Ayurvedics Full Spectrum Ashwagandha
(Best ashwagandha with calcium combination)
Full Spectrum Ashwagandha 570 mg –120 tablets of Planetary Ayurveda can help your body adapt to psychological and physiological pressures. Researchers believe that Ashwagandha could help the body deal with stress. Ashwagandha is used in the ancient tradition as a general tonic and is a very strong adaptogen.
The content of Ashwagandha in this Ayurvedics Planetary® supplement can even help people with insomnia. There are scientists who believe that Ashwagandha root extracts and leaves can improve people’s thinking.
Some scientists believe that Ashwagandha can play an important role in reducing inflammation and stress. Give your body the benefits of the full spectrum Ashwagandha 570 mg – 120 Ayurvedic planetary tablets that rejuvenate the body and relax the mind.
Benefits
- Cheap
- Mood compensation
- Rejuvenating Toner
- Relaxation
- Easy to take
Disadvantage
- Pregnant or lactating women should avoid grass