Ashwagandha is one of the most researched adaptogens on the market, and one of the most common ingredients in stress and sleep support formulas. Here is what it is, how it is traditionally used, and what the current evidence actually supports, in conjunction with a healthy diet and lifestyle.
What Is Ashwagandha?
The ashwagandha root is dried and ground into powder. It is also sold under names such as Indian ginseng (with no relation to true ginseng), winter cherry, poison gooseberry and desert berry, among others.
How Is Ashwagandha Used?
In modern supplements, ashwagandha is often combined with other ingredients to round out a formula. For example, it can be paired with ginseng or green tea extract for additional antioxidant support, or with other adaptogens like schisandra and rhodiola to build a broader stress-support blend.
What Does the Research Say?
Ashwagandha contains several compounds of research interest, including withanolides (considered the primary active constituents), alkaloids and saponins.
Supporting the body's response to everyday stress
Supporting sleep quality
Supporting a healthy inflammatory response
Supporting strength and stamina
Supporting healthy blood sugar and cardiovascular wellness
Supporting cognitive function and memory
Supporting healthy cortisol levels
Supporting fertility and vitality
Supporting thyroid wellness
Is It Healthy to Take Ashwagandha Daily?
Ashwagandha is generally well tolerated when taken daily in a dosage-controlled form, following the manufacturer's recommended dosage. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking prescribed medication or managing a pre-existing health condition, consult your doctor before starting any new supplement.
Recommended Ashwagandha-Containing Formula
Not sure where to start? Contact us for personalised advice and recommendations.
Inception Labs Reprieve
An advanced stress support formula featuring ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) alongside schisandra, turmeric and rhodiola, formulated to support the body's natural response to everyday stress, relaxation and balance, and overall wellbeing, in conjunction with a healthy diet and lifestyle.
See Product
Dr Matt Walley, PhD
CEO and Managing Director of the wider Inception Group (Supplement Solutions, Inception Labs, Inception Gym, Inception Nutrition), Matt holds a PhD in Structural Equation Modelling and Cognitive Psychology. With over 20 years of industry experience, Matt's expertise extends across supplementation, nutrition, and training, with a particular interest in neuropharmacology. Outside of the health and fitness space, Matt is Managing Director of a linguistics and consumer psychographics AI suite, and owner of a local martial arts school in Christchurch, New Zealand.