Ashwagandha has been used for centuries in Eastern medicine. In recent years, this herb has experienced an uptick in popularity in the Western world as well. In fact, it has become one of the most popular supplements on the market. People have discovered it can help with many ailments, including stress, anxiety, insomnia, athletic performance, and much more. Many people are taking it daily, while others are only taking it when they are highly stressed and/or anxious.

Due to its popularity, many manufacturers have started producing ashwagandha supplements. While it’s always nice to have options, it’s also quite challenging- especially if you really don’t know a lot about it. That is where we come in.

In this article, we’re going to explain more about ashwagandha, what it is, how it works, who should use it, as well as the benefits and side effects that are purportedly associated with it. Finally, we’ll review what we believe to be the top 8 options on the market.

What is Ashwagandha?

The first thing we need to do is explain exactly what ashwagandha is. Ashwagandha is an evergreen herb, also known as Withania somnifera, that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It is believed to support overall health/wellness in a variety of ways.

According to some experts, taking an ashwagandha supplement daily can help improve energy levels, reduce inflammation, and support overall health/wellness.

Ashwagandha is also often referred to as “winter cherry” or Indian ginseng. It grows naturally in Africa, India, and some areas of the Middle East. The name is Sanskrit and literally means “smell of the horse.” The reason it was given this name is because it has a unique scent, and it supposedly can make you as strong as a horse.

One thing we can all agree on is that life is stressful and due to the pandemic, it has become even more stressful in the past few years. Ashwagandha can help with managing stress and the anxiety that comes with it. It can also help with insomnia, sexual health, and many other things- which we will explore later on.

How Does it Work?

According to research, ashwagandha is composed of chemicals that may help calm the brain, reduce blood pressure, decrease swelling, improve immune system, manage the body’s stress response, and so much more.

It is considered an adaptogen, and like other adaptogens, it is believed to change the way your body responds to biological, physical, chemical, or mental stress. It is believed to stimulate your natural stress-protection response, returning you to a state of homeostasis.

Your body has a natural “fight or flight” reaction when something stressful happens. You either fight it or flee it. Ashwagandha effects that “fight or flight” response, changing the way you respond to stress.

More specifically, it appears that ashwagandha controls stress mediators in your body. It controls Hsp70 (heat shock proteins). It is also believed to affect stress hormones such as cortisol, and is also involved in the stress-activated c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase (JNK-1). When you are under stress, the levels of these three stress biomarkers in your body increase. Studies have indicated that ashwagandha may decrease these levels, which is why it is suggested that ashwagandha helps with anxiety.

Who Should Take Ashwagandha?

There are many reasons that people use ashwagandha- from relieving stress and anxiety to increasing testosterone levels to facilitating weight loss. Following are the people who could benefit most from taking an ashwagandha supplement:

• Anyone dealing with insomnia or having difficulty sleeping
• Anyone looking for a natural treatment for their stress/anxiety
• Anyone wanting to boost strength and improve muscle recovery following workouts
• Men and women who what to increase virility, sex drive, and overall function
• Anyone wanting to improve general brain power, cognition, and memory
• Anyone wanting to reduce inflammation in their body

Ashwagandha has been used in Eastern medicine for centuries and studies indicate that it’s a complete health/wellness aid. It does not target just one aspect of your health; it promotes overall wellness in a variety of ways. This is why it can be so powerful for just about anyone.

Top 8 Ashwagandha Reviews

Now that we’ve explained more about ashwagandha, along with the benefits and potential side effects, we’re going to review what we feel are the top 8 brands on the market today. If you are interested in trying an ashwagandha supplement, we recommend that you start with one of these. You can be sure that these are 100% trustworthy.

XWERKS Ashwa

XWERKS Ashwa is one of the most popular ashwagandha supplements on the market right now. We know that XWERKS is well-known and respected in the supplement industry with high quality products including protein powder, pre workout, creatine and CBD. They have been providing health and fitness supplements for many years. Ashwa is their ashwagandha formula and is available in the form of gummies.

According to their website, Ashwa is formulated to increase testosterone levels in men, and to improve athletic performance in male and female athletes. The website also states that Ashwa can improve sleep, neutralize the production of cortisol, and reduce stress levels.

Therefore, if you want an ashwagandha supplement that can improve your athletic performance or increase T-levels, XWERKS Ashwa is the way to go. At this time, a 30-day supply is only $19. As with the other XWERKS products, Ashwa comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Name	XWERKS Ashwa
Cost	$19
Servings	30
Satisfaction Guarantee	Yes

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Simple Life Nutrition Ashwagandha

When it comes to high-dose ashwagandha, Simple Life Nutrition Ashwagandha is one of the best. This supplement is popular among those who want to reduce stress, improve cardiovascular health, increase immunity, and basically enhance their overall health.

One dose of Simple Life Nutrition Ashwagandha consists of 2 capsules containing 1,300 milligrams of pure ashwagandha. In addition, this formula includes 100 milligrams of black pepper extract to facilitate absorption and help your body reap the benefits of ashwagandha supplementation.

Finally, it’s important to note that Simple Life Nutrition is vegan friendly. Instead of the cheap gelatin capsules that many other brands use, this company uses high-quality vegan capsules.

Therefore, if you are looking for a high quality ashwagandha supplement without fancy marketing, this is your best option. At this time, a 30-day supply is only $17.99 and is backed by a 30-day money back guarantee.

Name	Simple Life Nutrition Ashwagandha
Cost	$17.99
Servings	30
Satisfaction Guarantee	Yes

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Oweli Ashwagandha

Oweli is well-known in the supplement industry. Their ashwagandha is formulated to support better mood and reduce stress to a healthy level. Additionally, taking Oweli Ashwagandha is said to enhance cognition, improve your response to stress, and improve your sleep patterns.

Some other benefits reported by users of Oweli Ashwagandha include:

• Reduction of physical/mental stress
• Improved body composition
• Improved overall well-being

Oweli contains 1,300 milligrams of ashwagandha, making it one of the high-dose formulas and it also contains 100 milligrams of black pepper extract to make it more bioavailable.

This formula is third-party tested for purity, potency, and quality. The company maintains high standards for their manufacturing practices. Each bottle costs $19.99 for a 30-day supply. Each dose is 2 capsules. Oweli offers a 100-day satisfaction guarantee.

Name	Oweli Ashwagandha
Cost	$19.99
Servings	30
Satisfaction Guarantee	Yes

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Goli Ashwagandha

Goli is one of the newer supplement brands in the industry, but it has quickly become one of the most well-known. It seems that their ashwagandha gummies are among the most popular. They are formulated to help you unwind, relax, and restore after a difficult day.

This formula contains KSM-66 ashwagandha and Vitamin D. Both of these ingredients together enhance relaxation and support overall wellness.

Their website claims (and customers agree) that Goli Ashwagandha Gummies promote an overall feeling of calmness, improve immunity, reduce stress levels, improve memory and cognition, reduce stress cravings, and help with maintaining a healthy body composition. It is also reported to help with sexual health.

These gummies have a yummy berry flavor and costs $19 for a one-month supply. They do offer a subscribe and save program where you can have it auto-shipped each month for $16.15 per bottle. Goli stands behind their products with a 100% hassle-free money back guarantee.

Name	Goli Ashwagandha
Cost	$19.00
Servings	30
Satisfaction Guarantee	Yes

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Nutraville Helix-4

Nutraville Helix-4 is an ashwagandha supplement formulated to improve mood and facilitate weight loss. This is a capsule and according to the website, taking just 2 capsules per day addresses several aspects of weight gain, including absorption of fat/carbs and reducing food cravings.

Helix-4 not only helps to control weight, it is also reported to increase energy and improve mood. This ashwagandha supplement does cost a bit more than most of the other options on our list- but it’s one of the better options if your goal is to lose weight.

In fact, according to the manufacturer, this is the best supplement to help facilitate the shedding of unwanted body fat and help you meet your desired weight. In addition to ashwagandha, this formula also contains a lipase inhibitor and other ingredients to support rapid, safe weight loss.

The company believes that you will experience the results you are looking for, which is why they stand behind their products with a 100%, 365-day money back guarantee.

Name	Nutraville Helix-4
Cost	$49.00
Servings	30
Satisfaction Guarantee	Yes

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Zhou Ashwagandha

Zhou Ashwagandha is formulated to relieve both physical and mental stress. It costs $14.96 for a 30-day supply, making it one of the best values on our list. According to the website, this formula supports a healthy cardiovascular system, improves sleep patterns, promotes healthy blood glucose levels, and so much more- and for less than $0.50 per day!

Every serving of Zhou Ashwagandha contains 1,200 milligrams of ashwagandha, which means it is potent. In addition, there is 5 milligrams of black pepper extract to facilitate absorption. Finally, Zhou adds their own proprietary blend that includes reishi mushroom and Rhodiola Rosea, along with other ingredients. Plus, they stand behind their products with a money-back guarantee.

Name	Zhou Ashwagandha
Cost	$14.96
Servings	30
Satisfaction Guarantee	Yes

CLICK HERE TO SHOP

Amy Myers MD ZenAdapt

If you know anything about the dietary supplement industry, you’ve likely heard of Amy Myers MD. This brand was founded by a medical doctor, Amy Myers. She originally launched a website to sell supplements to her patients at Austin UltraHealth Clinic. She also had a blog and podcast. In 2017, the brand was officially launched.

Their ashwagandha formula, ZenAdapt is formulated to limit the production of cortisol and to balance your body’s response to stress. Ashwagandha is one of the primary ingredients in this formula. Other ingredients include PEA, Venetron, saffron extract, and others. It is believed that these ingredients work together to soothe overstimulated nerves.

According to the website, Amy Myers MD ZenAdapt is the ideal way to balance anxiety and stress levels. It’s one of the few on the market that is actually formulated by a doctor and is perfect for those who want to achieve a perfect balance. At this time, a 30-day supply is priced at $39.92 and includes a money-back guarantee.

Name	Amy Myers ZenAdapt
Cost	$39.92
Servings	30
Satisfaction Guarantee	Yes

CLICK HERE TO SHOP

Longevity Activator

Longevity Activator is the last of our top 8 ashwagandha supplements. This formula is designed to help you live longer without experiencing some of the most common symptoms of aging including:

• Cognitive decline
• Aches/pains
• Fatigue

This potent formula includes ashwagandha as one of the primary ingredients and also contains taurine, resveratrol, ginseng, astragalus, turmeric, and more. One of the best things about Longevity Activator is that the company is 100% transparent about all of the ingredients and their specific dosages from the beginning.

It is one of the weaker options on our list because it only contains 25 milligrams of ashwagandha. However, it is still said to be effective. Longevity Activator costs $49 for a 30-day supply- making it one of the more expensive ones. You can save a little bit of money by buying in bulk: 6 bottles only cost $198, making them $33 per bottle. However, if you are looking for the anti-aging benefits associated with ashwagandha, this may be what you’re looking for.

Name	Longevity Activator
Cost	$49
Servings	30
Satisfaction Guarantee	Yes

CLICK HERE TO SHOP

Possible Benefits of Ashwagandha

So far, we’ve explained what ashwagandha is, how it works, and who should use it. Now, we’re going to take a closer look at some of the possible benefits of ashwagandha.

Reduces stress/anxiety

One of the most well-known benefits of ashwagandha is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. As we mentioned, it’s considered an adaptogen, which adjusts the body’s response to stress. It appears to control the three mediators of stress: Hsp70, JNK-1, and cortisol.

Additionally, it appears to reduce HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis activity, which is a system in your body responsible for regulation of stress response.

In fact, there have been several studies that have indicated ashwagandha can effectively relieve stress and anxiety. In one small study, researchers divided 58 participants into 3 groups. One was given 250 milligrams of ashwagandha, one was given 600 milligrams, and one was given a placebo for a period of 8 weeks. At the end of 8 weeks, the groups that were given ashwagandha experienced a decrease in cortisol levels compared to the group given the placebo. Additionally, those who took the ashwagandha experienced better sleep than those who were given the placebo.

In another study, 60 participants were divided into 2 groups. One was given 240 milligrams of ashwagandha daily and the other was given a placebo. After 60 days, the group that was given the ashwagandha experienced a reduction in anxiety compared to those who were given the placebo.

Therefore, early research indicates that it may be helpful for controlling stress and anxiety- but recent reviews of studies determined that there’s not enough evidence to determine the appropriate dosage for treating neuropsychiatric disorders related to stress- such as anxiety.

Improves athletic performance

There has been some research indicating that ashwagandha is beneficial for athletes because it seems to improve athletic performance.

Upon analyzing 12 studies of male and female athletes who took 120 to 1,250 milligrams of ashwagandha daily, it was determined that it may enhance performance including oxygen use and strength during workouts.

In another review of 5 studies, it was observed that ashwagandha supplementation substantially improves oxygen consumption in athletes and healthy adults in general. It is very important for athletes and non-athletes to have optimal oxygen consumption. Low oxygen has been associated with increased mortality and high oxygen has been associated with a reduction in heart disease.

These studies also indicated that ashwagandha may improve muscle strength as well. In one study, male athletes were given 600 milligrams of ashwagandha daily and engaged in resistance training for a period of 8 weeks. Their muscle size and strength gains were substantially more than those who were given a placebo.

Reduces symptoms of some mental health conditions

According to some research, ashwagandha may be helpful for reducing symptoms of some mental health conditions, such as depression, in certain groups.

One study involved 66 patients who had been diagnosed with schizophrenia and were experiencing depression and anxiety. Patients who were given 1,000 milligrams of ashwagandha daily for a period of 12 weeks experienced a reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety than those who were given a placebo.

A study from 2012 looked at adults who were under stress. Those who were given 600 milligrams of ashwagandha daily for 60 days experienced a 77% reduction in depressive symptoms. The placebo group only experienced a 5% reduction. That being said, only 1 of the participants had a history of depression- so it’s unclear why these results are relevant.

Another study indicated that ashwagandha may improve total symptoms and stress in patients with schizophrenia. Some limited research from 2013 indicates that patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder experience an improvement in cognition when using ashwagandha. However, there is not enough research on this yet.

While it does seem that ashwagandha works as an antidepressant in some, it should not be used as a substitute for prescription antidepressants. If you are experiencing depression and/or anxiety, it’s important that you consult a medical professional to get the help you need.

Boost testosterone & increases male fertility

Some studies have indicated that ashwagandha supplementation may increase testosterone levels and improve male fertility.

One study involved 43 men between the ages of 40 to 70 who were overweight and had mild fatigue. Some were given ashwagandha, while the others were given a placebo. At the end of 8 weeks, the men who were given the ashwagandha had an 18% increase in DHEA-S, which is a sex hormone involved in the production of testosterone, as well as a 14.7% increase in testosterone than those who were given a placebo.

A review of 4 studies discovered that ashwagandha increases sperm motility, concentration, and semen volume in males experiencing low sperm count. It also was found to increase sperm motility and concentration in men with a normal sperm count.

Still, researchers came to the conclusion that, at this time, there is not enough information supporting ashwagandha benefits for male fertility- more studies are needed.

Reduces blood glucose levels

There is some indication that ashwagandha may benefit those who have high blood glucose levels or have been diagnosed with diabetes.

One review of 24 studies- including 5 studies involving individuals with diabetes- indicates that patients who took an ashwagandha supplement had a reduction in blood glucose, blood lipids, oxidative stress markers, and hemoglobin A1c. The belief is that some of the compounds in ashwagandha, such as withaferin A (WA) help to combat diabetic activity within the body and to stimulate cells to bring in glucose from your blood.

However, once again, research in this area is limited. In order to come to a clear conclusion, more studies are required.

Reduces inflammation

As mentioned, ashwagandha contains several compounds, including WA. Some research indicates that WA may help reduce inflammation in the body. Researchers discovered that WA targets the inflammatory pathways in the body, including molecules such as: NF-kB (nuclear factor kappa B) and Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor).

Some animal studies indicate that WA also reduces inflammatory proteins in the body, such as IL-10 (interleukin-10). There is also some indication that it may do the same for humans.

In 2008, one study involved adults who were experiencing stress. They were either given a placebo or an ashwagandha supplement. Those who were given the ashwagandha experienced a reduction in C-reactive protein, which is a marker for inflammation, than those who were given the placebo.

Another study involved individuals who had been diagnosed with COVID-19. These patients were given an Ayurvedic medication containing 0.5 grams of ashwagandha, along with other herbs, twice daily for 7 days. At the end of the 7 days, inflammatory markers, TNF-a, CRP, and IL-6 were substantially reduced.

While it’s true that these results are promising, we need more research to confirm the effect of ashwagandha on reducing inflammation.

Improves cognitive functioning, including memory

According to some experts, ashwagandha may have a positive effect on cognitive functioning, including memory.

One review of 5 clinical studies indicated that early evidence showed improved cognitive functioning in some populations who were given an ashwagandha supplement. These include older adults who were diagnosed with mild cognitive impairments and patients with a schizophrenia diagnosis.

Some of the cognitive functions ashwagandha may impact include:

• Attention
• Cognitive task performance
• Executive functioning
• Reaction time

One study involving 50 adults indicated that taking 600 milligrams of ashwagandha daily for a period of 8 weeks resulted in substantial improvements in the following areas, when compared with a placebo:

• Attention
• Immediate memory
• Speed of processing information
• General memory

Researchers have noted that compounds in ashwagandha, such as WA, seem to have an antioxidant effect on the brain, which is believed to be beneficial for cognitive health.

Improves Sleep

There is some evidence that ashwagandha helps with sleep issues, including insomnia- so some people take it to promote restful sleep.

One study looked at 50 adults aged 65 to 80. It was discovered that taking 600 milligrams of ashwagandha daily for a period of 12 weeks improved sleep quality, compared with those taking a placebo. In addition, mental alertness upon waking was improved.

In a review of 5 studies, it was indicated that ashwagandha offered a small, but positive impact on overall sleep quality. Ashwagandha is reported to reduce anxiety, which promotes restful sleep, which helps people feel more alert upon waking.

Researchers report that results are more noticeable in those who have insomnia and in those who took 600+ milligrams of ashwagandha daily for at least 8 weeks.

Safe & Readily Available

At this time, it seems that ashwagandha is safe for most people. However, it’s important to note that the long-term effects are not clear.

One review of 69 studies showed that ashwagandha is safe and effective for managing certain conditions, including insomnia, stress, and anxiety.

In one 8-week study involving 80 healthy men and women, it was reported that 600 milligrams of ashwagandha taken daily did not have any adverse effects. That being said, there are a few groups that should not take ashwagandha and/or should speak with their physician before taking it.

Dosing recommendations vary. Dosages starting at 250 milligrams daily to 1,250 milligrams daily have been shown effective for various conditions. If you are unsure of how much ashwagandha you should take, discuss it with your physician.

Also, it’s important to note that the effects are not immediate. In some cases, you may have to take it several weeks to several months before you start noticing effects. It can be taken on an empty stomach or with food and you can take your full daily dose all at once or you can spread it out in several doses throughout the day.

Side Effects of Ashwagandha

As a general rule, ashwagandha is safe. Most people who have taken it report few to no side effects. That being said, if you have a medical condition, it’s important to consult with your physician before taking this or any other supplement. Also, if you are pregnant or nursing, you need to avoid taking ashwagandha until you speak with your physician because there is no clear evidence on the effects it can have on a baby.

Some of the most common side effects associated with ashwagandha include:

• Nausea/stomach upset
• Drowsiness

As mentioned, those with certain medical conditions need to speak with their physician before taking any supplements. These conditions include:

• Thyroid issues
• Hormone sensitive prostate cancer
• Autoimmune conditions

Of course, if your physician decides that ashwagandha supplementation is right for you, it’s important to take the time to make sure that the supplement you choose is safe. This includes proof of third-party testing, customer reviews, and more.

Conclusion

For centuries, Eastern medicine has used ashwagandha to treat a variety of conditions and, in recent years, this has moved into the Western world. This supplement is used to treat things like anxiety, stress, insomnia, inflammation, and so much more. There are many benefits associated with ashwagandha and very few undesirable side effects. If you are looking for a natural way to promote overall health and well-being, this just might be what you’re looking for.

Unfortunately, due to the popularity, there are lots of brands and formulas on the market, making it hard to find the best one. That is why we did the work for you. We have chosen what we feel are the best ashwagandha supplements on the market. If you want to get started, try one of these. They all come with a satisfaction guarantee, so there’s no risk- if you don’t like it, contact them and they will explain the refund process.