High-Potency Ashwagandha Extract: Natural Support for Stress, Sleep, and Hormone Health
Hormonal fluctuations, poor sleep, stress, and fatigue can influence many aspects of women’s overall wellness. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an adaptogenic herb traditionally used in Ayurveda to help the body adapt to physical and emotional stress.
For those looking to support mood and cognitive well-being from multiple angles, pairing adaptogens like ashwagandha with targeted gut–brain support may offer complementary benefits.* Learn more about our Gut–Brain Axis supplement.
A standardized, high-potency ashwagandha extract containing 35% withanolide glycosides provides a much higher concentration of active compounds compared to typical extracts. This form has been studied at low daily dosages (60–120 mg) for its potential effects on stress response, sleep quality, immune health, vitality, and hormonal balance.¹
This article reviews published research on high-potency ashwagandha extract and how it may support overall wellness.
Stress and Mood Support
In a randomized, placebo-controlled trial involving adults with chronic stress, daily use of 60 mg or 120 mg of high-potency ashwagandha extract was associated with a ~59% reduction in self-reported anxiety scores compared to placebo. Morning cortisol levels also declined by approximately 67%.² Supporting a healthy stress response may help promote a balanced mood, sustained energy, and overall hormonal equilibrium.
For additional mood and cognitive support, see how our Gut–Brain Axis supplement is formulated to work alongside adaptogens for comprehensive mind–body wellness.*
Restful Sleep
Sleep quality is essential for overall health. In a six-week clinical trial of 150 adults with self-reported poor sleep, 120 mg daily of high-potency ashwagandha extract was linked to a 72% improvement in overall sleep quality compared to 29% in the placebo group.³ Participants also reported shorter time to fall asleep, longer total sleep duration, and more restorative rest.
Hormone Balance Support
Ashwagandha’s adaptogenic properties may help the body maintain healthy hormone levels. In adults experiencing chronic stress, supplementation with high-potency ashwagandha extract increased testosterone levels by 22–33% in men with low baseline levels.² While human research in women is limited, adaptogens are thought to help promote overall hormonal balance.
Immune Health
A 30-day randomized controlled trial found that 60 mg daily of high-potency ashwagandha extract supported immune system markers, including increased natural killer cells, T cells, and beneficial cytokines.⁴ A well-functioning immune system is important for resilience and vitality.
Skin Vitality
In an eight-week study, high-potency ashwagandha extract increased DHEA-S levels by 18% in older adults—a hormone associated with skin hydration and collagen maintenance.⁵ Supporting balanced DHEA-S levels may contribute to skin health and overall wellness.
Energy and Physical Endurance
In research with older men, high-potency ashwagandha extract was associated with reduced fatigue and increased vigor, potentially linked to healthier anabolic hormone status.⁵ Supporting energy levels can help encourage regular activity, which benefits long-term well-being.
Conclusion
High-potency ashwagandha extract is an adaptogen that has been clinically studied for its potential to support stress management, sleep quality, hormonal balance, immune function, skin vitality, and energy levels. It can be considered as part of a balanced lifestyle that includes healthy eating, regular physical activity, and stress-reducing practices.
For those seeking an integrative approach to mental clarity, stress resilience, and gut health, our Gut–Brain Axis supplement is designed to complement adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha.*
References
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NutriScience Innovations, LLC. High-Potency Ashwagandha: Product Technical Sheet. 2021.
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Mishra DN, Kumar M, et al. Ashwagandha extract relieves stress and anxiety in adults with high stress: A randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Heliyon. 2024;10(4):e036885.
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Deshpande A, Irani N, Balkrishnan R, et al. Effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) on sleep quality in healthy adults: A randomized controlled trial. Sleep Med. 2020;72:28-36.
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Tharakan A, Shukla H, Benny IR, et al. Immunomodulatory effect of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) extract—a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with an open-label extension in healthy subjects. J Clin Med. 2021;10(16):3644.
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Lopresti AL, Drummond PD, Smith SJ. Hormonal and vitality effects of Ashwagandha in aging, overweight males: A 16-week randomized, placebo-controlled crossover trial. Am J Mens Health. 2019;13(2):1557988319835985.
Important Notice
This article is for educational purposes only and summarizes research on high-potency ashwagandha extract. WrenLife’s ashwagandha product is coming soon and is not yet available for purchase. No orders are being accepted at this time.
FDA Disclaimer
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
