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It’s commonly said that stress can be detrimental to health. While it may not be possible to eliminate stress completely, strategies can be implemented to manage it effectively, and adaptogens like ashwagandha can play a key role. The most effective ashwagandha supplements complement a healthy lifestyle, which can help mitigate stress through actions such as maintaining stable blood sugar levels, enjoying outdoor walks, practicing breathwork, spending time in nature, meditating, journaling, and more. “Ashwagandha is a significant rejuvenating herb in Ayurvedic practice due to its capacity to nourish, restore, and enhance longevity,” states Ayurvedic nutritionist and wellbeing specialist Jasmine Hemsley. Although ashwagandha has been a staple in Ayurvedic medicine for ages, its popularity is on the rise.
Vogue’s Top Picks for Ashwagandha Supplements:
This surge in interest is attributed to its adaptogenic properties, making it a natural solution for helping the body adapt to stress. “It’s traditionally utilized to support the body’s stress management and soothe the nervous system by adjusting the body’s stress response over time,” explains naturopath and functional medicine practitioner AG1‘s Chief Science and Nutrition Officer, Dr. Ralph Esposito. “Numerous clinical studies endorse its efficacy for creating relaxation and enhancing sleep quality.”
Improved sleep, reduced stress, and overall relaxation? Count us in. If you’re eager to explore the numerous advantages of this natural stress alleviator, there are several factors to consider. We consulted with nutritionists, Ayurvedic wellbeing professionals, and naturopathic doctors to gather comprehensive insights on the best ashwagandha supplements available now. Here’s everything you should know.
Contents:
- What is ashwagandha?
- What are the benefits of ashwagandha?
- Which form of ashwagandha is the most effective?
- How to Take Ashwagandha for Optimal Benefits
- Our Testing Methodology
- Meet Our Experts
Best Overall: Integrative Therapeutics Cortisol Manager
Integrative Therapeutics
Cortisol Manager
- Why We Recommend It: Taylor Fazio, a registered dietitian and wellness advisor for The Lanby, frequently suggests Integrative Therapeutics’ Cortisol Manager to clients grappling with high cortisol levels or trouble falling asleep. “It contains Sensoril, a patented root and leaf extract that’s higher in withanolide concentration, making it excellent for stress reduction and sleep enhancement,” she notes. Sensoril is a well-studied form of ashwagandha that’s been well-researched for cognitive health support. “Individuals facing persistent stress, mild anxiety, fatigue, or sleep disturbances are likely to find benefits from ashwagandha,” adds Fazio. Always consult with a healthcare professional before introducing any new supplement to confirm it aligns with your health goals and medical profile. This gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan tablet is also enriched with L-theanine, another adaptogen that fosters relaxation amid even the most hectic days.
- Ingredients: Sensoril, L-theanine,
- Form: Tablet
- Serving Size: 2 tablets
- Certifications: NSF-certified, cGMP-certified, ISO accredited
Best for Stress: Ritual Stress Relief
- Why We Love It: In today’s fast-paced world, stress is an unavoidable fact of life, permeating nearly every activity. Constant stimulation coupled with limited downtime results in increased cortisol production, which can be detrimental when sustained over long periods. While cortisol is often viewed negatively, balanced levels are essential for functions such as metabolic health and blood pressure regulation. Thankfully, Ritual’s capsule serves as a remarkable line of defense against stress—utilizing a specialized time-released capsule that delivers a unique blend of ashwagandha, L-theanine, and saffron both instantaneously and over a period of 4 to 8 hours to maintain steady cortisol levels overall. “Ashwagandha has been proven to lower cortisol levels, alleviate perceived stress and anxiety, and enhance sleep quality,” states Fazio. “It may also aid in boosting energy, focus, and immune function through the same stress relief pathways.”
- Ingredients: Shoden® Ashwagandha, Suntheanine® L-theanine, affron® Saffron Extract
- Form: Capsule
- Serving Size: 1 capsule
- Certifications: Non-GMO Project verified, ClimeCo certified, Clean Label Project certified
Best for Sleep: AG1 Greens AGZ Nightly Sleep Support
AG1 Greens
AGZ Nightly Sleep Support
- Why We Recommend It: By examining sleep biology, the AG1 team pinpointed the fundamental systems influencing sound sleep, utilizing clinically-proven nutrients and botanicals to support them. “For AGZ, we identified six key systems impacting sleep and matched them with appropriate ingredients, including the HPA axis supported by ashwagandha,” explains Esposito. “This holistic approach promotes sleep via calming the body in the evenings, optimizing nightly sleep quality, and aiding in waking refreshed.” Formulated with ashwagandha (5% withanolides), saffron, L-theanine, Magtein magnesium L-threonate, and chamomile extract, it’s basically the recipe for a restful night in a small packet. Available in three delicious flavors—mixed berry, chocolate, and chocolate mint—there’s something for everyone. Simply blend one packet with 4 ounces of your preferred water or milk temperature before bed to signal to your body that it’s time to unwind and drift off.
- Ingredients: Ashwagandha, saffron, L-theanine, Magtein magnesium L-threonate
- Form: Powder
- Serving Size: 1 packet
- Certifications: NSF-certified, third-party tested
Best for Emotional Well-Being: Thorne Ashwagandha
- Why We Love It: Featuring a concentrated dose of Shoden ashwagandha bioactive components (roots and leaves), this extract is standardized to 35% withanolide glycosides. “When selecting ashwagandha for stress or sleep support, it’s crucial to opt for one that is standardized to withanolides,” notes Esposito. “These active components have been shown to support restoration and promote sleep.” Thorne is highly regarded by medical professionals for its transparency and stringent testing protocols, making it a trusted choice for those seeking support for mental, emotional, and physical health. “This selection from Thorne is a high-quality, reliable formula offering standardized ashwagandha in a trustworthy supplement,” Fazio emphasizes.
- Ingredients: Ashwagandha extract (root, leaf)
- Form: Capsule
- Serving Size: One capsule
- Certifications: NSF-certified, third-party tested
Best for Anxiety: Moon Juice Ashwagandha
- Why We Recommend It: Moon Juice offers several adaptogen formulations, but none substantiate the power of this pure, finely milled 100% ashwagandha powder. Crafted with just one ingredient—organic super concentrated KSM-66 root-only extract—this formulation has demonstrated effectiveness in lowering cortisol (the stress hormone) and combating anxiety and agitation. KSM-66 has been clinically researched for its capacity to assist with stress management and sleep enhancement over time. For optimal results, consistent usage is key—this isn’t a one-time fix. “Most users won’t notice immediate effects but rather accumulate benefits through regular intake,” Esposito advises. “I recommend allowing several weeks to fully gauge its impacts.”
- Ingredients: Organic KSM-66 ashwagandha
- Form: Powder
- Serving Size: 1/4–1/2 tsp
- Certifications: Non-GMO, gluten-free, vegan
Best Ashwagandha Gummy: Gaia Herbs Organic Ashwagandha Gummies
Gaia Herbs
Ashwagandha Gummies
- Why We Recommend It: For a plant-based boost, these organic gummies are flavored like an apple cinnamon donut and are naturally sweetened with apple, date, and blueberry extracts. Three gummies deliver a 600mg serving of ashwagandha root extract. “The most scientifically supported dosage is 300–600 mg per day of standardized root extract, taken with food,” says Fazio. “You can consume them in the morning for energy and focus or in the evening to aid relaxation and sleep.” Their delicious taste makes it easy to stay consistent with your routine. “Regularity is essential to achieve optimal results: use them daily for at least 6–8 weeks to observe their effects,” she adds. It should be noted that they contain 4 grams of added sugars, which may be a consideration for those monitoring their sugar intake.
- Ingredients: Organic ashwagandha root extract, cinnamon bark, ginger
- Form: Gummy
- Serving Size: 3 gummies
- Certifications: USDA organic, Non-GMO Project Verified
Best Liquid Ashwagandha: MaryRuth Organics Ashwagandha Root
MaryRuth Organics
Ashwagandha Root
- Why We Recommend It: For those who struggle with swallowing pills, liquid supplements can be easier and more enjoyable to consume. This formulation uses glycerin and water instead of alcohol and includes a handy dropper for accurate dosing. MaryRuth’s conforms to strict quality and testing standards, making it an excellent option for anyone trying ashwagandha for the first time. “Selecting supplements from trusted brands that have clinical studies and third-party certifications is critical to ensure ingredient quality,” emphasizes Esposito. “This not only verifies the ingredient quality but confirms its identity as true ashwagandha.”
- Ingredients: Organic ashwagandha root extract
- Form: Liquid
- Serving Size: 0.5mL
- Certifications: USDA organic, Non-GMO Project verified, B Corp certified, Clean Label Project certified, cGMP certified
Best Ashwagandha Combination: Needed Cognitive Support
- Why We Recommend It: Tailored specifically to support women’s health through all stages of life, this thoughtfully crafted capsule delivers research-based benefits that are ideal for combating brain fog and fatigue. Having 125mg of the innovative ashwagandha blend Sensoril, along with nootropics like lion’s mane and reishi, it provides comprehensive support. “In Ayurvedic traditions and supported by modern studies, ashwagandha is recognized for reducing anxiety and stress by nurturing the nervous system,” says Hemsley. Modern ashwagandha is typically available in capsule and tablet forms which are convenient, however, traditional usage involves mixing the herbs with warm milk, ghee, or unpasteurized honey for better absorption. If you’re interested in traditional consumption methods, Hemsley suggests using the capsules to dose precisely into your preferred “carrier.”
- Ingredients: Ashwagandha, coffee fruit extract, lion’s mane, reishi
- Form: Capsule
- Serving Size: 2 capsules
- Certifications: The Climate Label certified, B Corp certified, Clean Label Project certified, certified plastic neutral
Essential Information
Ashwagandha is a nightshade plant commonly used in the form of supplements made from its roots and leaves. “The plant’s Latin name—Withania somnifera—its root and leaves reflect its potential usage as a sleep aid, leading to the association with somnolence,” remarks Esposito.
What are the benefits of ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is associated with a vast array of benefits—such as lowering levels of cortisol, promoting sleep, alleviating anxiety, and enhancing cognitive abilities. “Robust clinical trials confirm that ashwagandha root extract can significantly decrease stress and anxiety levels, as well as improve sleep when consumed regularly,” notes Fazio. “Of course, further extensive and enduring research is required.” Emerging studies also suggest ashwagandha may assist with energy, focus, and immune function by interacting with stress-reduction pathways. In Ayurvedic practice, it aids seasonal transitions during autumn and winter. “As seasons shift and impact our internal climate, ashwagandha becomes particularly effective in strengthening ‘Ojas’ (the essential energy or vitality that supports physical and mental wellness),” notes Hemsley. Some studies indicate ashwagandha may enhance thyroid function in those with hypothyroidism, alongside improving cognition in adults experiencing mild cognitive impairment and individuals with schizophrenia.
What form of ashwagandha is the most effective?
Ashwagandha is available in various forms, and efficacy can depend greatly on its intended use. “When seeking ashwagandha for relaxation or sleep support, you should choose a variety standardized to withanolides,” notes Esposito. The plant is rich in phytochemicals—including alkaloids and withanolides, which are thought to be chiefly responsible for its effects.
While ashwagandha is generally acceptable for most individuals, it’s vital to consult with a healthcare professional prior to beginning any new supplement—including ashwagandha. “This way, you can inquire about its compatibility with other medications, any specific health concerns you may have, and additional considerations,” Esposito suggests.
How to Take Ashwagandha for Maximum Benefits
Similar to many supplements, regularity is essential to truly observe benefits from ashwagandha. “Most studies indicate the greatest advantages occur with consistent use for at least 6–8 weeks,” explains Fazio. She recommends standardized root extracts in capsule or tablet forms containing at least 5% withanolides. “Even though tinctures and gummies are convenient, their potency and absorption can vary,” Fazio adds.
In our examination of products, we employ a thorough methodology to ensure well-rounded recommendations. We rely on Vogue‘s vast roster of experts—including board-certified dermatologists and celebrity estheticians—to gain authoritative insights on notable industry products, the ones these professionals would utilize with their clients. This expertise is paired with our editorial practices to deliver the insightful content you see on our platform.
With respect to ashwagandha supplements, we identified the best options based on specific factors: form, third-party testing, standardized extracts, clinical backing, and the potential issues they aim to address. This was achieved by assessing our trials of each product alongside insights from experts and reviewer feedback to determine which we would recommend.
- Dr. Ralph Esposito is a licensed naturopathic physician, certified functional medicine expert (IFMCP), and the Chief Science and Nutrition Officer at AG1.
- Taylor Fazio is a registered dietitian and wellness consultant based in New York, working with The Lanby.
- Jasmine Hemsley is an expert in Ayurvedic nutrition and wellbeing as well as the author of East By West.
