Ashwagandha Extract
Withania somnifera · Solanaceae family
A standardised root extract of Withania somnifera, India's most revered adaptogen. Concentrated for guaranteed withanolide content, supplied as a primary crude drug substance for Ayurvedic and pharmaceutical formulation.
2.5–5%
Withanolides
Powder
Physical Form
24 mo.
Shelf Life
What is Ashwagandha Extract?
Withania somnifera, commonly known as Ashwagandha, Indian Ginseng, or Winter Cherry, is a foundational herb in Ayurvedic medicine with a documented history spanning over 3,000 years. The name means "smell of horse" in Sanskrit — a reference to both its distinctive aroma and its traditional reputation for conferring the strength and vitality of a stallion.
The SDR Ashwagandha Extract is derived from the roots of organically cultivated plants, processed without chemical solvents to preserve the full spectrum of bioactive compounds. Standardised to a guaranteed minimum of 2.5–5% withanolides — the primary steroidal lactones responsible for its adaptogenic effects.
Supplied as a fine, light brown to off-white powder for incorporation into Ayurvedic formulations, nutraceutical capsules, functional foods, and pharmaceutical preparations by licensed manufacturers.
Sourcing & Origin
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Roots sourced from Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh — India's premier Ashwagandha cultivation regions
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Harvested at 1–2 years maturity when withanolide concentration peaks
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Cold-processed to protect heat-sensitive alkaloids and glycowithanolides
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Free from pesticide residues, heavy metals, and microbial contamination — verified by third-party CoA
Traditional Classification
In classical Ayurveda, Ashwagandha is classified as a Rasayana — a rejuvenating tonic that promotes longevity, enhances vitality, and strengthens the body's resistance to disease. Described in the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita as a premier adaptogen.
Rasayana
Ayurvedic Class
3,000+ yrs
In Traditional Use
Key Active Compounds
The therapeutic activity of Ashwagandha is attributed to a complex synergy of phytochemicals, each contributing distinct biological actions.
Withanolides
Steroidal lactones — the principal bioactive class. Withaferin A and Withanolide D are the most studied, demonstrating anti-inflammatory, anti-tumour, and neuroprotective properties in clinical research.
Withanine & Alkaloids
Isopelletierine, anaferine, and withanine contribute to sedative and anxiolytic effects. These compounds act on GABA receptors, supporting sleep quality and stress relief.
Sitoindosides
Sitoindosides VII–X promote neurogenesis and support acetylcholine signalling, contributing to the nootropic and memory-enhancing effects documented in clinical research.
Saponins
Support immune modulation, cholesterol regulation, and anti-inflammatory activity. Ashwagandha's saponins contribute to its broad-spectrum tonic and adaptogenic effect.
Iron & Choline
A natural source of bioavailable iron and choline, contributing to its traditional use as a haematinic and cognitive tonic in Ayurvedic preparations for anaemia and fatigue.
Polyphenols & Tannins
A broad spectrum of polyphenolic antioxidants scavenges free radicals, reduces oxidative stress, and contributes to the anti-ageing and hepatoprotective properties of the extract.
Health Benefits
Backed by over 200 clinical studies, Ashwagandha Extract delivers well-documented benefits across multiple systems.
Stress & Anxiety Relief
Clinically proven to reduce serum cortisol by up to 27%. Multiple double-blind RCTs demonstrate significant reduction in anxiety scores (Hamilton Anxiety Scale) with 300–600 mg standardised extract daily over 8 weeks.
Physical Strength & Endurance
Studies show a 1.5–2× increase in muscle strength and recovery speed in resistance-trained subjects. Enhances VO₂ max and reduces exercise-induced muscle damage through anti-inflammatory pathways.
Cognitive Function & Memory
Sitoindosides promote neurogenesis and protect against amyloid plaques. Demonstrated improvements in immediate memory, executive function, and processing speed in healthy adults.
Sleep Quality
Triethylene glycol content and GABAergic alkaloids promote sleep onset and improve sleep quality. A 2019 RCT showed significant improvement in sleep efficiency, latency, and total sleep time.
Testosterone & Male Vitality
Significantly increases serum testosterone and LH levels. Clinical evidence shows improved sperm quality — count, motility, morphology — and increased conception rates in infertile males.
Immune Modulation
Activates natural killer cell activity, increases haemoglobin and WBC counts, and modulates Th1/Th2 cytokine balance with no risk of overstimulation.
Technical Specifications
General Parameters
| Botanical Name | Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal |
| Plant Part Used | Root |
| Extraction Method | Aqueous / Hydroalcoholic (solvent-free) |
| Physical Form | Fine powder |
| Colour | Light brown to off-white |
| Odour | Characteristic earthy |
| Solubility | Partially soluble in water; soluble in ethanol |
Quality Parameters
| Withanolide Content | Min. 2.5% (standard) / Min. 5% (premium) |
| Alkaloid Content | Min. 0.3% |
| Loss on Drying | ≤ 5% |
| Heavy Metals (Total) | ≤ 10 ppm (WHO guidelines) |
| Microbial Load | Within API / IP limits |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from manufacture |
| Storage | Cool, dry place (<25°C), away from light |
Packaging & Supply
Standard Pack
1 kg, 5 kg, 25 kg
Packaging
HDPE drums / Food-grade pouches
Lead Time
3–7 working days
Formulation Applications
Suitable for a wide range of pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and Ayurvedic formulations.
Tablets & Capsules
Compressed tablets, hard/soft gel capsules, sachets — direct compression or wet granulation
Liquid Formulations
Tonics, syrups, Asava-Arishta preparations, and liquid nutraceuticals for Ayurvedic manufacturers
Functional Foods
Protein powders, health drinks, energy bars, and fortified foods targeting stress and performance
Cosmeceuticals
Anti-ageing creams, scalp serums, and skin-brightening formulations leveraging Withaferin A
Typical Formulation Dosage
Standard clinical dosage in finished formulations: 300–600 mg standardised extract per day (2.5% withanolides). Premium 5% standardised extract allows reduced-weight formulations. Consult a qualified Ayurvedic physician or pharmacist for final dosage in any licensed end-product.
These are primary crude drug substances — not for direct consumer use without further formulation.
Quality Assurance
GMP Certified
Good Manufacturing Practice
Ayurvedic Licence
Govt. of India certified
3rd Party Tested
Independent CoA per batch
ISO Certified
International quality standard
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Our team responds within 24 hours. CoA and product data sheet available on request.