Best Ashwagandha Supplement for Stress
You’ve probably heard all about the adaptogenic properties of ashwagandha and how it can help you build stronger resilience to stress. But what is the best ashwagandha supplement for stress so you can take control? You’ve come to the right place.
There are a few main forms, and they are not created equal. Dosage matters, too. You also need to think about other ingredients in the supplement that can help round out the stress-busting benefits ashwagandha has to offer.
This guide will help you weigh your options and introduce you to the best supplement for stress with ashwagandha, cordyceps, L-theanine, lemon balm, and magnesium citrate: Snoozy’s Mellow Mind stress gummies. Learn more below!
Key Takeaways
- Ashwagandha is a clinically studied adaptogen that can bring cortisol levels down and impact how you perceive stress.
- The two main forms you’ll find are KSM-66 (root extract) and Sensoril (root + leaf).
- Most studies used dosages between 300-600mg daily, and the benefits came out over the course of a few weeks.
- The best ashwagandha supplement for stress has other ingredients pulling weight as well. Not JUST ashwagandha.
Overview of Ashwagandha
Known scientifically as Withania somnifera, this evergreen shrub comes from the nightshade family. It’s native to India, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. There, it has been a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine for over 3,000 years. The main uses were to help calm a racing mind, support energy, and help the body recover from both physical and psychological stress.
Most of the benefits from ashwagandha can be traced back to a few key compounds - withanolides. These naturally occurring steroids are most concentrated in the root. This will be relevant in just a moment when we get into the best ashwagandha supplement for stress. Just know that most products on the market extract and standardize ashwagandha to specific withanolide percentages (typically 5-10%). This way, you know exactly what you’re getting.
The research shows that this plant can be quite powerful in combating the harmful effects of stress. One study found that a group given ashwagandha reported a nearly 28% reduction in serum cortisol levels after 60 days of supplementation. They also had much lower scores on a stress assessment scale.1
The researchers were led to the conclusion that, “...high-concentration full-spectrum Ashwagandha root extract safely and effectively improves an individual's resistance towards stress.”1
The question is, how can YOU tap into the stress-busting benefits ashwagandha has to offer?
What is the Best Ashwagandha Supplement for Stress?
Not all ashwagandha supplements can really help you take control of the way stress impacts you. Let’s take a look at the main forms and all the most important factors to consider so you can set yourself up for success.
The Two Main Forms of Ashwagandha
There are two main forms most ashwagandha supplements use:
- KSM-66: A full-spectrum root extract standardized to at least 5% withanolides. It’s the most widely studied form of ashwagandha for stress and anxiety. The reason is likely that this is how Ayurvedic practitioners used the plant for centuries.
- Sensoril: A combination of root and leaf extract. It’s standardized to at least 10% withanolides. But don’t let that higher concentration be the only thing you take note of. The compound profile is different because leaf and root withanolides aren't identical.
You can get good results with either form. But if you’re looking for the BEST ashwagandha supplement for stress, it’d be hard to argue against using something containing KSM-66. There’s just more research behind it.
Other Factors to Consider
Ashwagandha form is just one piece of the puzzle. There are quite a few other things that go into picking the best supplement for your well-being. For example, what other ingredients are in the mix? These are some we like to combine with ashwagandha:
- L-theanine: This amino acid found in green tea is capable of promoting alpha brain wave activity, creating a sense of calm without leaving you drowsy. It’s perfect for easing stress during the day while keeping you alert.
- Lemon balm: A GABA-modulating herb from the mint family with its own well-documented stress-fighting effects.
- Magnesium: A vital mineral for human health in general. A deficiency in magnesium can leave you vulnerable to the harmful effects of stress.
There are many others you can seek out in a stress blend, too - such as cordyceps, for example, which can improve overall resilience.
But complementary ingredients aside, it’s imperative that you get a supplement that is lab-tested for two main reasons: potency and purity. On one hand, you want to make sure you’re getting the concentration you deserve. But you also want to avoid any harmful byproducts like heavy metals. Shopping with a brand that lab tests its products gives you peace of mind.
Why Snoozy’s Mellow Mind is the #1 Choice
Mellow Mind is the best ashwagandha supplement for stress backed by a satisfaction guarantee. It brings you the perfect combination of ashwagandha, L-theanine, lemon balm, magnesium citrate, and cordyceps to fight stress from every angle and help you conquer whatever the day throws your way. Try it today and put stress on pause, permanently!
Are Ashwagandha Supplements Safe?
You have little to worry about as far as side effects go. Ashwagandha supplements - especially those that are lab-tested and sold by trusted brands like Snoozy - are safe. Some people do encounter mild side effects, though - tummy troubles, drowsiness, and headaches.2 These are very rare and tend to get better as your body adjusts to the supplement.
That being said, there are a few situations where you should be a little more cautious with ashwagandha supplements. It can affect thyroid hormone levels, so talk to your doctor first if you’re on medication for your thyroid. You should avoid it altogether during pregnancy/breastfeeding, too.
Making the Most of Ashwagandha to Improve Stress Resilience
Getting your hands on the best ashwagandha supplement for stress is only the first step. You have to make sure you’re using it consistently. It’s not the type of thing that improves your stress response overnight. Skipping days will only hold you back. Make it a point to get your daily dose at the same time, every day.
Don’t skip the other stuff that helps keep stress at bay, either. Regular exercise, a good diet, ample sleep - all of these add up to help you stay resilient no matter what comes your way. Ashwagandha can’t do it all on its own!
When Will You Notice Ashwagandha Having a Positive Impact?
Most people notice something changing after 2 weeks of daily use. However, the benefits tend to compound. The studies we combed through showed that the most measurable impact was felt around the 4-8 week mark.1
Expect subtle changes at first. You might not spiral over an email the way you once did. You’re falling asleep better without replaying the day’s events over and over, or worrying about what tomorrow might bring. You’ll wish you started sooner once you experience the power of ashwagandha! So, take the next step today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I take ashwagandha if I'm stressed?
It’s certainly worth trying ashwagandha for stress. It has been shown to bring cortisol down to a healthier range and improve your resilience.
Which ashwagandha is best for stress?
The supplement should use either KSM-66 or Sensoril - ideally, KSM-66, as it has more evidence. On the other hand, Sensoril has a higher concentration of active compounds. Make sure the supplement has complementary ingredients as well.
How quickly does ashwagandha work for stress?
It’s not as fast as you may hope, but it’s worth waiting 4-8 weeks for the full range of benefits to emerge.
Related Resources
GABA vs ashwagandha for stress | L-theanine for stress | Lemon balm for stress relief
References
- Chandrasekhar K, Kapoor J, Anishetty S. "A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults." Indian J Psychol Med. 2012;34(3):255-262. PubMed
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. "Ashwagandha." NCCIH
