What Is Ashwagandha Tincture?
Written by Irina Webb
Herbal remedies are popular with many people because they offer a natural approach to health and wellness. One of them is Ashwagandha, a powerful adaptogenic herb that has been used for thousands of years in regions such as India, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. Ashwagandha is traditionally valued for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and stress-reducing qualities. Today, I want to dive into what Ashwagandha tincture is, what benefits it offers, and how you can use it.
What Is Ashwagandha Tincture?
To begin with, Ashwagandha tincture is an herbal extract made from the root of the Withania somnifera plant. It is commonly referred to as “Ashwagandha,” “Indian Ginseng,” and “Winter Cherry.” The plant comprises a broad spectrum of phytochemicals with a wide range of biological effects.
Reportedly, Withania somnifera has demonstrated various biological properties, including anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-microbial, anti-arthritic, anti-stress/adaptogenic, neuro-protective, cardio-protective, hepato-protective, and immunomodulatory properties (source).
Furthermore, Withania somnifera was found to be especially active against many neurological and psychological conditions like Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, Huntington’s disease, ischemic stroke, sleep deprivation, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia and obsessive-compulsive disorder (source and source).
Traditionally, the tincture is made by steeping the Ashwagandha root in alcohol or a mix of alcohol and spring water to extract the beneficial compounds. The resulting liquid is highly concentrated, allowing for easy and efficient consumption.
Typically, the Ashwagandha tincture is used as a supplement to help the body manage stress, improve energy, and promote overall wellness. As an adaptogenic herb, it helps the body adapt to physical, mental, and environmental stressors, promoting balance and stability. Ashwagandha tincture is common in alternative medicine as part of holistic health practices. However, an Ashwagandha product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Therefore, it is important to consult with a medical professional before taking this or any other supplement.
What Are The Ashwagandha Tincture Benefits You Should Know About?
Evidently, extensive research into this plant has shown that Ashwagandha tincture can offer a wide range of potential benefits. I’m going to walk you through a few of the most notable ones, including:
- stress and anxiety reduction
- help with insomnia and depression
- menopausal symptoms relief
- increased energy and stamina
- anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
- endocrine system support
- memory and cognitive functions improvement.
Stress And Anxiety Reduction
First, one of the most well-known benefits of Ashwagandha is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. As an adaptogenic herb, it helps regulate cortisol, the hormone produced in response to stress. By balancing cortisol levels, Ashwagandha may help reduce feelings of anxiety, promote relaxation, and support emotional well-being.
Specifically, a recent analysis of several studies examined the effects of Ashwagandha on stress and anxiety in 558 patients. The results showed that Ashwagandha significantly reduced perceived stress and anxiety in patients, as measured by tools like the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAS). In addition, Ashwagandha helped lower cortisol levels, the hormone linked to stress. Overall, participants who took Ashwagandha experienced noticeable improvements in their stress and anxiety levels compared to those who took a placebo. While there were a few mild side effects reported, Ashwagandha appeared to be safe for most people. These findings suggest that Ashwagandha could be an effective natural option for managing stress and anxiety.
Help With Insomnia And Depression
Second, Ashwagandha has the potential to help with symptoms of depression and insomnia. It likely works by balancing stress-related systems in the body and influencing chemicals in the brain that help regulate mood and sleep (source).
Additionally, this study showed that Ashwagandha significantly improved sleep quality in participants after six weeks of use. The treatment group reported a 72% increase in sleep quality, compared to just 29% in the placebo group. Ashwagandha also improved sleep efficiency, total sleep time, and reduced sleep latency (the time it takes to fall asleep), as well as wakefulness after sleep onset. Plus, participants in the Ashwagandha group experienced better physical, psychological, and environmental well-being. These results suggest that Ashwagandha can be an effective supplement for improving overall sleep quality.
Menopausal Symptoms Relief
Third, this study looked at the effects of Ashwagandha root on women’s health during perimenopause. The study involved 100 women who experienced climacteric symptoms, such as hot flashes and mood changes. Over 8 weeks, half of the women took 300 mg of Ashwagandha twice a day, while the other half received a placebo.
The results were impressive: women who took Ashwagandha experienced significant improvements in symptoms like mood swings, physical discomfort, and urogenital issues compared to those who took the placebo. Ashwagandha also helped balance hormone levels, including increasing estradiol (a key hormone for women) and lowering follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which are often elevated during menopause. These findings suggest that Ashwagandha can be a safe and effective way to help manage mild to moderate symptoms during perimenopause, offering women a natural option for relief.
Increased Energy And Stamina
Next, Ashwagandha is often used to support energy levels. By improving the body’s resistance to stress and enhancing overall vitality, Ashwagandha can help you feel more energized throughout the day. Many people find it useful for combatting fatigue, particularly when dealing with chronic stress or exhaustion.
For instance, this study tested whether Ashwagandha could boost stamina and energy in fifty healthy, athletic adults. Over 8 weeks, participants took either 300 mg of Ashwagandha or a placebo twice a day. The results showed that those who took Ashwagandha experienced significant improvements in their endurance, measured by maximum aerobic capacity (VO2 max), compared to the placebo group. Additionally, the Ashwagandha group reported better recovery from fatigue and increased energy, as well as improved overall fitness and stress management. Their antioxidant levels also showed a significant boost. This suggests that Ashwagandha can effectively enhance stamina, speed up recovery, and help athletes perform better, all without any negative side effects.
Anti-Inflammatory And Antioxidant Properties
Further, the Ashwagandha root is rich in compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is often linked to various health conditions, including cancer.
In fact, a review of studies on Ashwagandha highlighted its impressive anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Research has shown that Ashwagandha can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are key factors in many diseases, including cancer. In particular, it has demonstrated anti-apoptotic (preventing cell death), anti-metastatic (preventing cancer spread), and anti-invasive effects in breast cancer models. These findings suggest that Ashwagandha’s ability to fight inflammation and oxidative damage could be beneficial not only in treating cancer but also in improving overall health by reducing harmful stress on the body.
Endocrine System Support
Moreover, a recent review of research on Ashwagandha highlighted its potential to support and improve the functioning of the endocrine system, which regulates hormone production in the body. The study found that Ashwagandha may help balance the thyroid, adrenal, and reproductive systems. Specifically, it was shown to boost the secretion of important thyroid hormones like triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), while lowering thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which helps regulate metabolism. Additionally, Ashwagandha seems to support the adrenal glands by reducing cortisol (the stress hormone) levels and enhancing reproductive health by improving the secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in men, which may improve fertility and reduce stress. These findings suggest that Ashwagandha could be a valuable natural remedy for managing hormonal imbalances and related health issues.
Memory And Cognitive Functions Improvement
Finally, this study tested whether Ashwagandha could improve memory and cognitive function in fifty adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Over 8 weeks, participants took either Ashwagandha (300 mg twice daily) or a placebo. The results were promising: those who took Ashwagandha showed significant improvements in both immediate and general memory. They performed better on various memory tests, such as recalling faces, family pictures, and logical information.
In addition to memory, the Ashwagandha group also showed enhanced cognitive abilities like executive function, sustained attention, and information-processing speed. These findings suggest that Ashwagandha could be a helpful natural supplement for improving memory and mental performance, especially in people experiencing early signs of cognitive decline.
What Are The Potential Ashwagandha Tincture Side Effects To Consider?
While Ashwagandha tincture offers many benefits, it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects, particularly if you have underlying health conditions. This is why it is crucial to consult with your doctor first. Some side effects may include:
- gastrointestinal issues
- drowsiness or sedation
- interaction with medications
- liver damage.
Gastrointestinal Issues
Some people may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as an upset stomach or diarrhea, when taking Ashwagandha tincture. This can often be mitigated by starting with a small serving size and gradually increasing the dosage. If you experience persistent stomach issues, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider.
Drowsiness Or Sedation
Due to its calming effects, Ashwagandha may cause drowsiness in some individuals. If you’re planning to take Ashwagandha tincture during the day, it’s advisable to start with a lower dose or take it in the evening before bed to avoid unwanted sedative effects.
Interaction With Medications
Ashwagandha may interact with certain medications, particularly those used for thyroid conditions, blood pressure, or anxiety. If you’re on medication, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before adding Ashwagandha tincture to your regimen to ensure there are no adverse interactions.
Liver Damage
Five case studies have raised concerns about the potential liver side effects of Ashwagandha. In these cases, patients developed jaundice, nausea, fatigue, itching, and abdominal discomfort 2 to 12 weeks after taking the supplement. The liver injury was mostly cholestatic or mixed, causing elevated bilirubin levels and prolonged itching. However, none of the patients experienced liver failure, and liver function tests returned to normal within 1 to 5 months in most cases. These cases suggest that while liver damage from Ashwagandha is rare, it can cause self-limited liver issues in some individuals.
How To Take Ashwagandha Tincture
Generally speaking, when it comes to taking Ashwagandha tincture or any other supplement, the best way is to consult your health provider as well as follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Here are several tips that can help you maximize its benefits:
- Start with a small serving size.
- Take with water or a beverage.
- Be consistent.
Start With A Small Serving Size
For starters, it’s important to begin using Ashwagandha tincture with a small serving size. This allows your body to get used to the herb and minimizes the chance of experiencing side effects. Most tinctures recommend a serving size of about 1-2 droppers (around 1-2 milliliters) per day, but always check the label for guidance.
Take With Water Or A Beverage
Next, to make taking the tincture more palatable, you can mix it with a small glass of water or tea. The alcohol content in the tincture may have a strong taste, so blending it with a warm beverage can help mask the flavor.
Consistency Is Key
Above all, as with any herbal remedy, consistency is important. For best results, take the Ashwagandha tincture regularly over a period of time. This allows the herb to build up in your system and work effectively.
Ashwagandha Supplementation Options
Remember to consult with your medical provider before taking any supplements.
Ashwagandha Tinctures
| Ashwagandha Tinctures | Features |
| – Herb Farm Ashwagandha – Herb Farm Ashwagandha Alcohol-Free – Nature’s Craft Ashwagandha Alcohol-Free – Now Foods Ashwagandha Extract – Oregon’s Wild Harvest Biodynamic Ashwagandha Extract | – USDA-certified organic – Consist of no more than three ingredients: organic Ashwagandha root, water and organic cane alcohol or glycerin (in alcohol-free options). – No added colors – No added flavors – $10 or 10% off on iHerb |
| – Earthley Anxiety Relief – Earthley Master Tonic For Adrenal Health, Immune Health, and Total Body Wellness – Earthley Natural Balance For Hormone and Energy Support – Earthley Nourish Him Naturally For Men’s Health Alcohol-Free – Earthley Thyroid Support Alcohol-Free | – Each made with more than three ingredients: water, cane alcohol or glycerin (in alcohol-free options), organic Ashwagandha root plus additional organic ingredients, such as organic turmeric root, organic reishi mushroom, organic amla berry, organic shatavari root etc. – No added colors – No added flavors |
| Aspen Green Calm Organic Full Spectrum CBD Oil Alcohol-Free (click to access and find a 20% discount code) | – USDA-certified organic CBD tincture made with organic hemp extract, organic Ashwagandha extract, and additional organic ingredients, such as organic MCT oil, organic basil extract etc. – No added colors – Contains organic lemon flavor oil made with carrot, apple, water, citric acid, and sunflower oil. – Learn more about CBD in my blog post CBD Hemp Oil: Are You Deficient In It?. |
Ashwagandha Capsules & Gummies
If you prefer solid supplements to liquid ones, consider the following options:
| Ashwagandha Supplements | Features |
| Seeking Health Ashwagandha 60 Capsules | – Primarily Ashwagandha extract – No added colors – No added flavors – Learn more about Seeking Health Supplements. |
| Seeking Health Multivitamin Sensitive 120 Capsules | – Ashwagandha extract plus additional ingredients, such as vitamins A, C & E, American ginseng, zinc, magnesium etc. – No added colors – No added flavors – Read my Seeking Health Optimal Prenatal Review. |
| Seeking Health Stress Nutrients 90 Capsules | – Ashwagandha extract plus additional ingredients, such as schisandra extract, rhodiola extract, ginseng extract etc. – No added colors – No added flavors |
| Aspen Green Calm Organic Full Spectrum CBD Gummies (click to access and find a 20% discount code) | – USDA-certified organic – Made with organic hemp, organic Ashwagandha extract, and other organic ingredients, such as organic MCT oil, organic holy basil extract etc. – Contains organic flavor made with carrot, apple, water, citric acid, and sunflower oil. – Contains organic color made from fruits and vegetables. – Learn more in my blog post about Aspen Green CBD gummies. |
Conclusion: Is Ashwagandha Good For You?
Ashwagandha Has The Potential To Promote Relaxation, Boost Energy, And Support A Healthy Immune System. However, As With All Supplements, Be Sure To Consult With Your Health Care Provider First.
In conclusion, an Ashwagandha tincture can be a helpful addition to your wellness routine. As with any supplement, it’s important to start slow, be mindful of possible side effects, and consult a healthcare provider if you have any concerns. With regular use and proper care, this adaptogenic herb could offer valuable support in managing stress and improving overall well-being.
For some Ashwagandha tincture options, check out Earthley Supplements as well as the products listed above.
Note that all plant-based supplements can have residues of heavy metals because they come from soil. Therefore, keep in mind that consumption of supplements (and protein powders) can increase your total exposure to heavy metals. On the other hand, generally speaking, it should not be very concerning because the serving size of the supplement is very small—much smaller than what babies consume in baby food. Also, remember that an Ashwagandha product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Therefore, make sure to consult with a medical professional before taking these or any supplements.
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