Description
Benefits
Also known as Withania Somnifera, there are many benefits of Ashwagandha, it is an adaptogen (an herb that helps the body deal physical and chemical processes associated with stress and anxiety). It has been studied and shown to reduced Cortisol (a chemical released in the brain as a response to stress) in the brain (another reference, in pdf). There have been several studies showing that Ashwagandha can reduce anxiety (reference, and ref). In several studies Ashwagandha was shown to increase power output (ref). Derived only from the roots of the plant, KSM-66® Ashwagandha is standardized to the highest percentage of withanolides in the world, >5% by HPLC. KSM-66® Ashwagandha operates on a systemic level and has been studied for its use in the following areas:
1. Anxiety & Stress
2. Cognition & Memory
3. Energy & Stamina
4. Sexual Function in Men & Women
5. Testorone Levels in Men
6. Stress, Weight Management, and General Well-Being
7. Muscle Strength, Size, and Recovery
Dosage
The dosage is dependent upon the individual, but most individuals should take the dose recommended on the bottle; this product contains 300mg of KSM-66® Ashwagandha per capsule.
Toxicity
Note that we only carry a branded extract of Ashwagandha known as KSM-66®; this is done because the company that produces KSM-66®, Ixoreal Biomed Inc, regularly produces an Ashwagandha extract that we feel has an excellent reputation. The company also has high standard in terms of quality control. Ashwagandha is largely considered non-toxic, and required massive doses in animal studies to reach the LD50. Ashwagandha has been known to lower blood pressure, so people with already low blood pressure may want to avoid taking Ashwagandha. Likewise Ashwagandha can upset the GI tract and should not be taken if you have a stomach ulcer. If you experience adverse effects from taking this product, discontinue use immediately and contact your health care provider.
KSM-66® is a registered trademark of Ixoreal Biomed Inc.
Full Analysis
Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb used as an anxiety-reducer. It i considered one of the most well-researched and potent nootropics that come from ancient Indian medicine.
- Ashwagandha has been used for 3000 years to reduce anxiety and stress (ref)
- Elements of focus and attention can be improved with use of ashwagandha (ref)
- Ashwagandha has a powerful anti-inflammatory active constituent (ref)
Ashwagandha Studies and Benefits
There are few Ayurvedic and traditional herbs that have the type of research that ashwagandha has. This nootropic drug is an effective nootropic compound that has been used for thousands of years. During this time, it has garnered a host of nicknames for its efficacy and potency. Today we have a different relationship with the drug because we can analyze it via scientific inquiry so well.
Some of the main benefits of ashwagandha are related to reducing anxiety and stress. It is considered an adaptogen, which means it helps to overcome feelings of stress and anxiety. It is also a tool for people to combat a poor immune system or weakness of that sort.
One study in 2012 found that ashwagandha could reduce stress and anxiety with no withdrawal symptoms. Some herbs or drugs don’t offer this luxury, but ashwagandha can be used without being abused.
Ashwagandha Side Effects
Despite the efficacy and well-researched nature of ashwagandha, there are a couple rare side effects. Most people do not struggle with any kind of side effects whatsoever, but some do exist. Most of them are related to gastrointestinal distress when taken in high quantities. Ashwagandha may just be a root, but that doesn’t mean it is not possible to have side effects from using it.
Other studies on the ashwagandha toxicity showed that even at high quantities, the herb is well-tolerated. One of the main side effects you need to be careful of may not have anything to do with the ashwagandha itself, but rather the heavy metals that are in many Ayurvedic products that have poor processing mechanisms.
Buy Ashwagandha
As mentioned above, you cannot simply buy ashwagandha and expect to have the safest product. Many times, the manufacturing process is not good for ashwagandha, which leads to heavy metals and other toxic ingredients. It is important to get a high quality product that is vetted for their sourcing and manufacturing processes.
Finally, if you are going to buy ashwagandha, it is important to do so with the right standardization of extract. If you do not have a standard extract, you are going to be unable to get the right dosage for your nootropic, which may lead to other health problems.
Jeremie (verified owner) –
Great product. KSM-66 from Ixoreal Biomed inc. is an excellent source of ashwagandha and excellent quality. Thank you for carring this product.
Peter (verified owner) –
Top quality product at a great price. Tried many brands of Aswaghanda. KSM66, has had the most profound effect to my senses. Thanks PN, the packaging and service is excellent.