Ashwagandha Extracts
Modern consumers value health and wellness. They are known for actively seeking beneficial ingredients that support holistic health, one of which is ashwagandha extract. This plant-based ingredient has been essential in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, but recently, North America has become the leading driver of market growth1.
What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha extract comes from a plant called Withania somnifera. The small shrub grows in India, Southeast Asia, and North Africa, where farmers cultivate it for its medicinal properties. The plant’s leaves and flowers are less important than the potent-smelling roots, from which ashwagandha gets its name. In Sanskrit, ashwagandha means “the smell of the horse.”
Ashwagandha as an Adaptogen
Adaptogens are plants that help regulate the human body’s stress response. When exposed to a stressful situation, the brain releases the hormones cortisol and adrenaline to provide energy and mental alertness until the perceived threat has passed. When you suffer from chronic stress, these hormones remain elevated for long periods, which can affect your health adversely.
Adaptogens like ashwagandha, mushrooms, ginseng, and turmeric contain bioactive compounds that react with the endocrine (hormone) system. They can help your brain reduce high cortisol levels when you’re anxious or provide an extra energy boost when you feel sluggish.
Potential Health Benefits of Ashwagandha Extract
While further research is needed to unlock the true power of ashwagandha, some studies have been conducted into its validity as a medicinal ingredient. So far, research suggests that it may offer at least three health benefits.
- Ease stress and anxiety.
Most studies of Ashwagandha are centered around its adaptogenic properties. In 2021, a scientific review2 identified seven studies that confirmed Ashwagandha’s ability to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Other studies show that ashwagandha can improve sleep quality, reduce fatigue, and induce a sense of calm when taken regularly over prolonged periods. - Reduce inflammation.
Ashwagandha root extract contains bioactive compounds called Withanolides. This compound stimulates the immune system and has been shown to reduce inflammation in humans and animals. It has shown promise as an anti-inflammatory ingredient to help patients with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis soothe joint pain and stiffness. - Protect brain health.
Numerous studies3 have investigated ashwagandha extract’s neuroprotective effects. These studies suggest that it can prevent oxidative stress in the brain and guard against degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s Disease. Other studies4 have shown early evidence that the extract may enhance cognitive functions such as memory and attention span in older adults.
Novel Ways to Consume Ashwagandha Extract
Traditionally, followers of Ayurveda consumed ashwagandha as a rasayana or healing tonic. They would grind the roots into a powder, mix it into a drink, or steep them in hot water to make medicinal tea. Today, ashwagandha supplements in tablet form are more popular.
Some brands add the extract to ready-to-drink mocktails, juice shots, smoothies, and natural energy drinks. These functional beverages appeal to consumers who need convenient hydration products that support a healthy lifestyle. Other ways to consume the extract include instant drink powders, gummies, and sugar-free baked goods.
Pairing Ashwagandha With Other Functional Extracts
Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogen that is taking the Western supplements market by storm. Its potential as a natural stress reliever and anti-inflammatory has earned it a place alongside ginseng and CBD. New manufacturers can learn from established functional drinks brands such as Moment and Droplet, which have transformed taking plant extracts into trendy drinking experiences.
These manufacturers and others rely on high-quality natural flavors to enhance the taste of their ashwagandha-infused beverages. Advanced Biotech has the ingredients for your formulation.
1 https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/ashwagandha-extract-market-detailed-analysis-6oyif/
2 Lopresti AL, Smith SJ. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) for the treatment and enhancement of mental and physical conditions: A systematic review of human trials. Journal of Herbal Medicine 2021; 28:100434.
3 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874119339303
4 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31742775/