Ashwagandha - Which is the best?
Choosing the best ashwagandha can be a challenge, as there are many forms and products available on the market. They differ not only in quality, but also in the content of active ingredients, such as vitanolides, which are responsible for the health-promoting effects of ashwagandha. To choose the best ashwagandha, it is worth paying attention to several key factors that affect its effectiveness and safety.
1. Extract standardized for vitanolides content
Vitanolides are bioactive compounds that are responsible for the main actions of ashwagandha, such as stress reduction, improved mood, increased energy and support for the immune system. Best ashwagandha is that which is standardized for high vitanolides content - typically in the range of 5% to 10%. Standardization ensures a consistent amount of active ingredients in each dose, which translates into a more predictable and effective effect.
2. Ashwagandha in extract form, not powdered plant
Both powdered products of the plant and extracts are available on the market. The best ashwagandha is an extract, which is more concentrated and more effective than the root powder. Extracts contain a higher concentration of vitanolides, which allows for smaller doses while increasing effectiveness. Products in extract form are more standardized and guarantee better quality.
3. Form of the supplement - capsules, drops or powder?
Ashwagandha is available in various forms, such as capsules, drops and powder. Each of these forms has its own benefits:
- Capsules: They are the most convenient to use, allow precise dosage and are easy to take, especially in daily use.
- Drops: They can be absorbed faster by the body, especially if taken sublingually. The drops are also easy to dose and can be added to drinks.
- Powder: It is the most natural form, but requires mixing with water or other liquid. It can be more difficult to dose and has a peculiar taste that not everyone likes.
The best form depends on individual preference, but capsules and drops are most often chosen for their convenience and effectiveness.
Regular consumption of coneflower can support resistance, especially during periods of increased risk of infection, such as flu season, and in people with weakened immune systems.
4. Organic ashwagandha - raw material quality
If you want the highest quality, you should choose organic ashwagandha. Organic products are free of pesticides, herbicides and other chemical additives, ensuring the purity of the raw material and safety for health. Organic certifications guarantee that the plants were grown according to organic farming principles, which affects the quality and potency.
5. Proven manufacturers
Choosing the right manufacturer is crucial to product quality. The best brands offer full transparency, providing information about the origin of the raw materials, standardization of the extract and laboratory testing. It is advisable to choose products from reputable manufacturers that follow strict production standards, such as GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) and independent quality tests.
6. Ashwagandha KSM-66 and Sensoril - two top quality extracts
Two particular types of ashwagandha extracts stand out on the market: KSM-66 i Sensoril. Both are standardized for high vitanolides content and have proven efficacy in clinical trials.
- KSM-66: This is one of the purest and most effective ashwagandha extracts available on the market, standardized to 5% vitanolides. KSM-66 retains a full spectrum of health benefits, including support for stress reduction, improved memory and cognitive function, and increased physical endurance.
- Sensoril: A standardized extract containing 10% to 15% of vitanolides, it offers stronger relaxation effects and support for stress reduction. It is more concentrated and recommended for those who need stronger support in dealing with tension.
Summary - Which Ashwagandha is the Best?
The best ashwagandha is the one that is standardized for vitanolides, is in extract form and comes from a trusted manufacturer. It's best to choose organic products that are free of chemical contaminants, and to bet on well-known extracts such as KSM-66 or Sensoril, which offer the highest quality and effectiveness.
The form of the supplement - capsules, drops or powder - depends on individual preference, but capsules and drops are the most convenient for daily use. When choosing ashwagandha, it is worth paying attention to the quality of the raw material, standardization and user reviews to be sure that the product will bring the expected health benefits.
Source: PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/); Google Scholar (https://scholar.google.com/); National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI); ResearchGate (https://www.researchgate.net/)