Ashwagandha Root Extract

Ashwagandha Root Extract is a concentrated form derived from the root of the Ashwagandha plant (Withania somnifera), a small shrub native to India and Southeast Asia. Traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, it is known as an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body manage stress and restore balance.

Appearance: Light brown to brown-yellow fine powder with a characteristic bitter taste and odor.

Solubility: Some extracts are water-soluble; others may have different solubility profiles depending on extraction methods.

pH: A 1–5% aqueous solution generally ranges around 3.0 to 6.5 or slightly acidic to neutral, depending on the preparation.

This compositional profile reflects the whole Ashwagandha root powder, which contains fiber, carbohydrates, a small amount of protein and fat, and moderate mineral and vitamin content. The extract itself is often standardized for withanolides (active compounds) rather than acting as a traditional nutrient source.

Ashwagandha Root Extract provides a wide range of scientifically supported health benefits, primarily due to its adaptogenic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties:

• Stress and Anxiety Reduction: Ashwagandha significantly lowers stress and anxiety levels by reducing cortisol (the stress hormone), improving sleep quality, and enhancing psychological well-being. It supports resilience to stress and helps manage symptoms of anxiety and depression.

• Cognitive Function and Neuroprotection: It has neuroprotective effects, improving memory, attention, executive function, and social cognition. Compounds in Ashwagandha promote neuronal growth and protect against cognitive decline.

• Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects: The extract boosts antioxidant defenses in the brain and body by increasing catalase and glutathione levels and reducing oxidative damage markers. It also suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-6), regulating inflammatory pathways.

• Physical Performance and Endurance: Ashwagandha enhances muscular strength, coordination, VO2 max (cardiorespiratory endurance), power, and recovery after exercise. It also improves fatigue resistance and quality of life in healthy individuals and athletes.

• Cardiovascular and Metabolic Support: It may help regulate blood pressure, improve lipid profiles, and reduce inflammation related to obesity and metabolic stress.

• Immune Support and Cellular Protection: Ashwagandha modulates immune response and reduces cellular death in models of neuroinflammation and other stresses