Ashwagandha supplements are a healthy and natural way to heal your spirit, mind, and body. The healing properties of this ancient medicinal herb continue to draw people in with promises of improving brain function, lowering stress levels, reducing inflammation, and much, much more.
If you’re interested in taking a natural approach to a healthier life, we’re here to help you take the first steps. In this guide, we’ll fill you in on exactly what you need to know before taking ashwagandha supplements and help you choose the right ones.
- Finding the Best Ashwagandha Supplements for You
- Top 10 Best Ashwagandha Supplements 2024
- 1. Best Overall Ashwagandha: NutriRise Ashwagandha Capsules
- 2. Best Premium Ashwagandha: Pure Encapsulations Ashwagandha Capsules
- 3. Best Ashwagandha for Insomnia: Gaia Herbs Ashwagandha Capsules
- 4. Best Kosher and Halal Ashwagandha: Organic India Ashwagandha Supplements
- 5. Best Ashwagandha for a Healthy Libido: Havasu Nutrition Ashwagandha Capsules
- 6. Best Ashwagandha for Men: Horbäach Ashwagandha Capsules
- 7. Best Ashwagandha Tablets: Planetary Herbals Ashwagandha Supplements
- 8. Best Ashwagandha for a Balanced Mood: Oregon’s Wild Harvest Ashwagandha Supplements
- 9. Best Ashwagandha for Energy: Himalaya Ashwagandha Caplets
- 10. Best Ashwagandha for a Healthy Immune System: NOW Ashwagandha Capsules
- Guide to Buying the Best Ashwagandha Supplements
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Final Thoughts
Finding the Best Ashwagandha Supplements for You
Ashwagandha has been helping people heal, in more ways than one, for over 5,000 years. There’s a lot to learn about this epic plant and its magical roots — like what it is, where it comes from, what it can do for you, and any potential side effects it might have.
With this in mind, we’d like to cover the basics before revealing our favorite ashwagandha supplements of the year. This way, you’ll know what to look for when making your pick.
What Is Ashwagandha?
The ashwagandha plant, most commonly known by its botanical name, Withania somnifera, is a shrub that belongs to the nightshade family. It is native to Asia and Africa, where it continues to be cultivated for its wide range of medicinal properties. However, its reputation precedes it all around the world.
Ashwagandha is a natural adaptogen that can be used to appease certain health conditions while also protecting the body from harmful components. Its roots and berries can be transformed into holistic tinctures and powders or in this case, supplements.
What Are Ashwagandha Supplements Used For?
Although ashwagandha has been used for thousands of years, few trials have been conducted to support its many health benefits. However, medical health experts have deduced that this ever-so-versatile herb can effectively reduce high blood pressure, stress, and inflammation.
Studies have also concluded that, if taken regularly, ashwagandha may be effective in fighting the following ailments:
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Chronic pain
- Fatigue
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Male infertility
- Cognitive decline
- Liver problems
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Obesity
- Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Ingesting ashwagandha has also been linked to reducing the production and activity of certain cancer cells. However, since most of these studies were conducted on animals and not humans, experts have yet to determine if ashwagandha is effective in fighting cancer. Nevertheless, ashwagandha has been deemed safe to use alongside cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation.
What We Considered When Picking the Best Ashwagandha Supplements
There’s a lot to consider when shopping around for the best ashwagandha supplements on the market. As we cover the products on our list, we’ll reveal what sets them apart from their competitors while also shining a light on the following factors.
Quantity
We’ll let you know how many capsules are included in every order of ashwagandha supplements. The quantity differs from bottle to bottle, but that isn’t always reflected in the price. This subsection can help you decipher which supplement offers you the most for the least.
Dosage
We’ll also let you know the dosage of each capsule we review. A typical daily dose of ashwagandha is around 500 mg, but some studies suggest that certain benefits may not occur until you’ve reached high dosages of up to five grams per day, so be sure to match your dosage to the benefits you’re looking for.
Suggested Use
Lastly, we’ll fill you in on the suggested use of each ashwagandha supplement bottle while also covering when you should take it.
If you wish to find out more about ashwagandha supplements, we invite you to check out our full buyer’s guide, where you can find answers to some frequently asked questions amongst many other things.
Now that we know a little more about the benefits and origins of the ashwagandha plant, it’s time to reveal our favorite ashwagandha supplements of 2024. However, before we do, we’d like to point out that before taking a new supplement, it’s always a good idea to consult your doctor. Now, let’s get right to it.
Top 10 Best Ashwagandha Supplements 2024
1. Best Overall Ashwagandha: NutriRise Ashwagandha Capsules
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Quantity: 120 capsules
- Dosage: 650 mg
- Suggested Use: Take 2 capsules once a day, about half an hour before a meal
Taking two NutriRise capsules a day can positively impact your life — whether you’re craving a good night’s sleep, trying to up your performance at work, or looking to kick your anxiety to the curb. NutriRise offers a high dose of ashwagandha, which is surprising considering its low price point. It works its magic very quickly, and you should notice a significant change in your everyday behavior within the first 3 days.
NutriRise is made in the USA with 100% organic ashwagandha root powder. It also contains black pepper extract which helps the body absorb it better. Each serving of 2 vegetable capsules with a superior shelf-life potency contains a total of 1300 mg of ashwagandha.
This is considered to be a very high dosage so it isn’t uncommon to opt for 1 capsule a day instead of 2, as results can still be felt — especially if you’re on the small-side.
NutriRise Ashwagandha Supplements are very effective but if there’s one thing we would change about them, it’s the size of their capsules. If you’re someone who has trouble swallowing large pills, you might find these supplements a little too large for comfort. Should this be the case, we highly recommend checking out the Organic India Ashwagandha Supplements instead.
Pros
- Fast-acting
- Affordable
- 100% certified organic
- Superior shelf-life potency
Cons
- The capsules are quite large
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Quantity: 120 capsules
- Dosage: 500 mg
- Suggested Use: Take 1 capsule daily, with food or between meals
Pure Encapsulations offers a medium-strength ashwagandha supplement that supports overall health while also helping to improve cognitive function. It’s made with pure ingredients and is free of allergens such as wheat, gluten, eggs, and artificial sweeteners and colors. It’s non-GMO, too, so if you’re prone to allergic reactions or sensitivities, this supplement has been designed to be as gentle as can be.
Pure Encapsulations has been delivering quality supplements for over 3 decades and their ashwagandha capsules can help with anything from mood support to insomnia. This supplement is perfect for anyone who wishes to take a smaller daily dose of ashwagandha or anyone prone to side effects.
If you’re interested in taking ashwagandha supplements to reduce high levels of anxiety, we recommend choosing another product, as this one is best for individuals who are prone to feeling light to medium levels of anxiety and stress. For something a little more heavy-duty, check out NutriRise Ashwagandha Capsules.
Pros
- Supreme quality
- Fast-acting
- Hypoallergenic
- Gluten-free
- Non-GMO
Cons
- A little pricey
- Fairly small if you’re taking large doses
3. Best Ashwagandha for Insomnia: Gaia Herbs Ashwagandha Capsules
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Quantity: 60 capsules
- Dosage: 350 mg
- Suggested Use: Take 1 capsule twice a day
The ashwagandha used in Gaia Herbs is grown on an organic farm and is certified organic by Oregon Tilth. However, they are not tested for purity by a third party, which may be concerning for some. Luckily, Gaia Herbs takes things a step further to offer their clients some peace of mind. They give you the option to input your product’s number on their website, allowing you to view the screening process of the product at hand.
Gaia Herbs Ashwagandha Capsules do not contain any allergens and are 100% non-GMO. These liquid capsules only contain 350 mg of ashwagandha, which is considered to be a light dose. As a result, these supplements are better suited for those of you who are closer to the 100-pound mark than the 200-pound mark.
If you’re looking for something stronger, take a look at Horbäach Ashwagandha Capsules — it’s the strongest ashwagandha supplement on our list.
One thing to note is that, if you’re prone to stomach cramps, Gaia Herbs supplements may cause you some discomfort. However, this is very rare. To prevent this from happening, be sure to take this supplement with some food. However, if you aren’t prone to stomach aches, you can consume these supplements on an empty stomach no problem.
Pros
- Certified organic
- Non-GMO
- Doesn’t contain allergens
- Made on a certified organic farm in America
Cons
- Only 350 mg of ashwagandha per capsule
- Not suitable for people with very sensitive stomachs
4. Best Kosher and Halal Ashwagandha: Organic India Ashwagandha Supplements
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Quantity: 90 capsules
- Dosage: 800 mg
- Suggested Use: Take 1-2 capsules twice daily, with food and water
There’s a lot to love about Organic India Ashwagandha Supplements, like how they can turn a stressful work or home environment into a calm one. These supplements are made in India, where the ashwagandha is grown sustainably using regenerative agriculture. Like many other ashwagandha supplements on this list, Organic India is USDA certified organic and made with non-GMO and gluten-free ingredients. Better yet, they are kosher and halal certified — which isn’t always easy to find.
We love how effective Organic India Ashwagandha Supplements are when it comes to combating stress, anxiety, and insomnia. They are fast-acting and easy to swallow, too!
However, keep in mind that Organic India is the strongest ashwagandha supplement on our list. Each capsule contains 800mg, and the producer recommends that you take up to 4 a day. So, if you have a sensitive stomach or are prone to experiencing side effects, it may be best to limit your daily intake to 1 capsule, twice a day. After all, taking the recommended dose may cause you to feel sleepy instead of energized.
Pros
- USDA certified organic
- Kosher and Halal certified
- GMO and gluten-free
- Fast-acting
Cons
- Supplements are very strong, taking too many can lead to side effects
- May cause fatigue
5. Best Ashwagandha for a Healthy Libido: Havasu Nutrition Ashwagandha Capsules
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Quantity: 90 capsules
- Dosage:
- Suggested Use: Take 2 capsules, once daily
Havasu Nutrition Ashwagandha Capsules are sought-after for several reasons, the most common one being stress. The capsules are easy to swallow and offer great value for the price. For an amazing sleep, take two capsules before bedtime and let the lucid dreams begin. Or, take them in the morning before work to keep stress and anxiety at bay throughout your workday. Once your stress levels diminish, you’ll notice a change in your libido, which is why many couples choose to seek this brand out.
Taking a large dose of ashwagandha may upset your stomach, which is why Havasu Nutrition thought to add artichoke leaf extract to their supplements. This helps the body quickly absorb the nutrients, preventing digestion issues from taking place. Unfortunately, these ashwagandha supplements are not certified organic. Nevertheless, they are made with quality ingredients and meet the expectations set by Good Manufacturing Practices.
It takes about 2 weeks before you begin to feel the full effects of ashwagandha. So hold tight! If 2 weeks is too long for you, however, we highly recommend looking into Himalaya Ashwagandha Supplements instead. These supplements are fast-acting, and their effects can be felt on the very first day of your ashwagandha journey.
Pros
- Contains artichoke leaf extract for increased absorption and digestion
- Increases libido in men and women
- Allergen-free
- Great quality
Cons
- It can take up to 2 weeks to notice results
- Non-organic
6. Best Ashwagandha for Men: Horbäach Ashwagandha Capsules
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Quantity: 120 capsules
- Dosage: 1,500 mg
- Suggested Use: Take 2 capsules daily, with a meal
Review
Horbäach Ashwagandha Capsules offer a very large dose (3,000mg) of ashwagandha which can affect testosterone levels, hence why these are better suited for men. These ashwagandha supplements are very effective when it comes to calming anxieties, lowering stress levels, and boosting physical endurance. They pump you up with energy, but not enough to stop you from sleeping the night away. Horbäach Ashwagandha Capsules aren’t organic but they are made in the USA where they are tested for quality.
The ashwagandha powder is encompassed by a gelatin capsule that promotes a very quick release. Unlike many of the ashwagandha supplements on our list, Horbäach supplements contain a few ingredients other than ashwagandha, which is something to look out for. Each capsule contains ashwagandha, black pepper extract, rice powder, vegetable magnesium stearate, and silica.
If you do not wish to consume a gelatin capsule or any of these other ingredients, we’d point you towards the Himalaya Ashwagandha Caplets instead.
Pros
- Non-GMO
- Quick-release capsules
- Tested for quality
Cons
- Made with a gelatin capsule
- Made with more than one ingredient
- Not organic
7. Best Ashwagandha Tablets: Planetary Herbals Ashwagandha Supplements
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts
- Quantity: 120 tablets
- Strength: Medium (570mg)
- Suggested Use: Take 1 tablet twice daily with meals
Review
Thanks to Planetary Herbals, you can get 120 tablets of ashwagandha for a very affordable price. These medium-strength supplements are ideal for professionals who need a boost of energy mid-way through their workdays. If you’re someone who experiences mood swings and wants to mellow out, these ashwagandha supplements can have you feeling yourself again in just a few days. They’re easy to swallow, too, and can be divided into smaller pieces for easy consumption.
Before you order Planetary Herbals, however, be sure to take a look at the list of ingredients, as these supplements contain the most added ingredients than any other supplements on our list. Although they are not organic, doctors still see this brand as safe which is why they continue to prescribe these supplements to their patients. All in all, these ashwagandha supplements work like a charm and offer an amazing value. If you’re currently taking sedatives, speak to your doctor before consuming Planetary Herbals, as sedatives can clash with this brand.
Pros
- Easy to swallow
- Fast-acting tablets
- Amazing value
Cons
- Many added ingredients
- Not organic
- Not compatible with sedatives
8. Best Ashwagandha for a Balanced Mood: Oregon’s Wild Harvest Ashwagandha Supplements
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Quantity: 90 capsules
- Dosage: 400 mg
- Suggested Use: Take 3 capsules daily with food
Oregon’s Wild Harvest is a trusted brand that is ethically sourced and made with clean ingredients. It’s certified organic and non-GMO. We love how the ashwagandha plants used for these supplements are grown in America by a registered surgical nurse and a farmer who pride themselves on quality.
To get the full serving of 1,200mg, you need to take 3 capsules a day. However, should you experience side effects like nausea or stomach cramps, you can decide to take 1-2 capsules a day instead.
If you do take 3 capsules a day, a bottle of Wild Harvest should last you a month, which isn’t ideal considering the price point. However, these ashwagandha supplements are made with quality ingredients, making them well worth the price.
If you’re interested in finding a similar product that offers a better value, we suggest looking into Organic India Ashwagandha Supplements instead.
Pros
- Made with clean ingredients
- Certified organic
- Grown from non-GMO seeds
- Grown in America
Cons
- Not the best value
9. Best Ashwagandha for Energy: Himalaya Ashwagandha Caplets
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Quantity: 60 caplets
- Strength: 670 mg
- Suggested Use: Take 1-2 capsules, twice daily with meals.
Review
Himalaya Ashwagandha Supplements work like a charm. You’ll notice a difference in your energy levels within just half an hour of taking them. These supplements are great for boosting performance, be it at work or the gym. They’re also very effective at combating stress and anxiety, making for a very comfortable sleep.
These plant-based caplets are USDA certified organic and contain ashwagandha root powder, root extract, and CO2 extract. Each capsule contains 670 mg of ashwagandha, making for a strong dose if you follow the suggested use.
The Himalaya Ashwagandha Supplements come in a caplet instead of a capsule — setting them apart from their competitors. So, if you’re not a fan of vegetable-based capsules, these are for you. They’re very affordable and can last up to 2 months if you choose to take 1 capsule a day, which is more than enough for anyone who requires a minimal dosage of ashwagandha.
The caplets are quite large and may be difficult for some people to swallow. But luckily, they can be broken in half for easy consumption. Unfortunately, however, these caplets are prone to breaking in the bottle which isn’t always a welcomed sight — unless you planned on breaking them up in the first place!
Pros
- USDA certified organic
- Very affordable
- Fast-acting
- Comes in a caplet and not a capsule
Cons
- Supplements may come broken
- Large supplement may be hard to swallow
10. Best Ashwagandha for a Healthy Immune System: NOW Ashwagandha Capsules
Editor’s Rating:
Quick Facts:
- Quantity: 90 capsules
- Dosage: 450 mg
- Suggested Use: Take 1 capsule up to 3 times a day
Review
NOW Ashwagandha Supplements are super affordable, which is what typically draws people in. However, there are a few things you should know about these supplements before ordering your first round. NOW supplements are no longer certified organic. But they make up for this by promoting their GMP certification, which confirms that the production of their supplements have met the sanitation and safety standards.
These ashwagandha supplements are made in the USA and do not contain any GMOs or allergens. They are very effective in reducing high levels of stress and anxiety but commonly, they are used to improve your immune system. So, you can take 1-3 of these a day during flu season to keep your chances of getting sick at bay.
Each capsule contains 450mg of ashwagandha extract, as opposed to root powder, which can cause digestion issues in some people. So speak to your doctor before consuming the full dosage, especially if you have hormonal issues. Women with PCOS are better off taking an organic ashwagandha supplement made from root powder, like the NutriRise Ashwagandha Capsules, as these can prevent their hormone levels from fluctuating.
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- Non-GMO and allergen-free
- GMP certified
Cons
- Not certified organic
- Not recommended for women with PCOS
- May cause digestion issues
Guide to Buying the Best Ashwagandha Supplements
Taking ashwagandha can change your life for the better but there are still many things you need to know about this medicinal herb before taking the plunge. In this guide, we’ll go through the most common side effects of ashwagandha, while also answering some of the most frequently asked questions.
Factors to Consider Before Taking Ashwagandha Supplements
Before taking a supplement, even one as natural as ashwagandha, it’s always best to consider your current lifestyle to determine if it will bring upon a positive change. Here are a few factors to consider before making your order.
Pregnancy
Before taking ashwagandha, it’s important to determine if you are pregnant or not. Pregnancy and ashwagandha do not go hand in hand. Although ashwagandha can balance hormones, therefore, helping conceive, it’s best to talk to your doctor before using ashwagandha to boost your chances of conception.
Breastfeeding
Since the effects of ashwagandha on babies have yet to be studied, it’s important to refrain from taking ashwagandha while breastfeeding.
Overall Health
A healthy person can choose to take ashwagandha supplements without consulting their doctor, but the same cannot be said about someone with severe health complications or comorbidities. Consider your health profile before taking ashwagandha supplements.
Medications
Another thing to consider is whether or not you’re taking medications. Some ashwagandha supplements like Planetary Herbals should not be taken alongside sedatives and this is just one example. To be sure, talk to your doctor before taking ashwagandha if you are currently taking medications.
How Do I Take Ashwagandha?
To experience the full effects of ashwagandha, its root powder (or an extract) must be ingested. You can accomplish this by taking tablets, supplements, teas, or powders.
Due to limited clinical trials, there isn’t a standard dosage when it comes to taking ashwagandha. Typically, consuming anything from 250 mg to 5 g a day is considered to standard and safe. However, if you’re trying ashwagandha supplements for the first time, it’s best to start small and take note of how you feel before choosing to up your dosage.
Side Effects of Ashwagandha
It’s perfectly common to experience side effects when trying a new medication, even one as natural and holistic as ashwagandha. Despite its many health benefits, ashwagandha can cause side effects to arise, especially if you’re taking too big of a dose. For this reason, it’s always best to speak to your doctor before taking a supplement. Below are some of the most common side effects of ashwagandha.
Headaches
Headaches are one of the most common side effects of ashwagandha. Headaches can occur as a result of low blood pressure, which ashwagandha promotes.
Upset Stomach
High doses of ashwagandha root powder can cause some people to experience an upset stomach. This usually occurs in people who are prone to upset stomachs in the first place. However, this isn’t to say that a healthy person won’t experience this side effect. To lower your chances of feeling discomfort, be sure to eat a well-balanced meal or snack before taking supplements.
Nausea and Vomiting
In rare cases, nausea and/or vomiting can occur due to the intestinal mucosa becoming disturbed or irritated.
Diarrhea
If you take a large amount of ashwagandha on your first try, you may experience diarrhea due to your gastrointestinal becoming upset. If you have a sensitive stomach, we recommend taking a small to medium dose of ashwagandha on a day that you do not have to leave the house — just in case it does not agree with you.
Sleepiness
Ashwagandha supplements are known for their energy-boosting qualities. Strangely enough, some people have reported feeling extremely tired after ingesting this medicinal herb.
Immune System Activity
Ashwagandha does a lot to boost the immune system of a healthy person. However, if you are someone who has an autoimmune disease, it’s best to avoid taking ashwagandha altogether, as it can negatively affect your immune system.
Miscarriages or Early Pregnancies
It’s always important to talk to your doctor before taking new medications or supplements — especially when you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Ashwagandha contains compounds that may cause miscarriages and premature births.
Should any of these side effects occur, it’s best to discontinue the supplement and call your doctor for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Take Ashwagandha Every Day?
To receive the full effects of ashwagandha, it’s recommended to take the same dosage every day. However, some supplements are fast-acting while others are not. Every single ashwagandha supplement on our list is safe to take daily.
If you’re someone who wants to take ashwagandha only on days when you feel particularly stressed, we recommend siding with Himalaya Ashwagandha Supplements. This supplement can relieve stress and anxiety in just a few hours, allowing you to take it when you need it instead of making a habit out of it.
Does Ashwagandha Really Work?
When it comes to keeping stress and anxiety at bay, ashwagandha works like a charm, and almost immediately, too. However, if you’re looking to take ashwagandha to increase your muscle mass and overall strength, it can take a few months before you notice a change in your body. Ashwagandha supplements really do work, but their effectiveness depends on the dosage you’re taking. If you are not feeling any benefits, it’s safe to up your dosage — provided that you have not encountered any side effects.
Who Should Not Use Ashwagandha?
Although ashwagandha is a relatively safe herb to use, it should not be consumed by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is also the case for those who have hyperthyroidism and autoimmune disorders, as ashwagandha may worsen their conditions. Ashwagandha may also clash with certain medications but this isn’t always the case. Talk to your doctor before combining ashwagandha with other medications.
Should I Take Ashwagandha in the Morning or at Night?
There is no right time to take ashwagandha supplements, as they can be taken at any time of the day. In the end, it all depends on your preferences and the instructions given by the ashwagandha supplement company. Some individuals prefer taking these supplements before bed to improve their quality of sleep, and others enjoy taking them before work to lower their stress levels.
Can Ashwagandha Help With Male Infertility?
Yes it can! If you’re a male who is interested in taking ashwagandha to manage infertility or erectile dysfunction, it’s recommended that you take ashwagandha root powder with milk in the morning.
Final Thoughts
If you’re interested in healing your body and rejuvenating your spirit, ashwagandha can lift you up where you belong. Taking ashwagandha on the daily can transform your life, turning you into a more relaxed and positive person, while also encouraging your body to heal from certain ailments. There’s a lot ashwagandha can do for you, and we sincerely hope that it changes your life for the better. Good luck with everything!