• Scientifically confirmed adaptogenic properties
• One of the most popular adaptogens
• Noticeable anxiolytic effect
• Improvement of psychophysical abilities
• Normalizing influence on the organism
• Regulation of blood pressure
• Decrease of calcium loss from bones
• Decreased fatigue
• Increased resistance to stress
• Improvement of memory and concentration
• Herbal stimulating preparation
• Lowered cortisol level
• Antioxidant properties
• Positive influence on mood
• Anti-inflammatory effect
• Emotional balance
• Energy level increase
• Facilitation in falling asleep

Swanson Ashwagandha Extract is a natural dietary supplement, containing ashwagandha extract (Withania somnifera), standardized for the content of min. 1,5% withanolides. Ashwagandha is one of the oldest adaptogenic herbs with scientifically proven effect strengthening the organism. In Ayurveda, this plant is called a mood stabilizer.

Adaptogens belong to a rare group of plants, effectively used for thousands of years i.a. in traditional Chinese medicine, currently enjoying unremitting interest. Adaptogens owe such large popularity to its unusual properties, which were thoroughly researched and scientifically confirmed. Active substances contained in these plants influence the organism at the cellular level. They increase adaptive abilities of the organism, making it non-specifically resistant to stress, caused both by external and internal factors (psychological stress).

Ashwagandha, (Withania somnifera) is a plant belonging to the Solanaceae family, cultivated mainly on the terrains of India. The key active ingredients are mainly found in fruits and roots (Radix et Fructus Withaniae). The roots of ashwagandha contain alkaloids, phytosterols (beta-sitosterol), coumarins, phenolic acids, withanolides A-Y, withaferins and minerals.

Withanolides are mainly biologically active compounds, conditioning adaptogenic properties of ashwagandha. They are steroid lactones, ergostane derivatives. The mechanisms of the pharmacological activity of withanolides consists in increasing sensitivity of serotonin receptors (5-HT), especially 5-HT1 and 5-HT2. Sensitizing receptors causes the increase of strength of serotonin binding and the growth of frequency of nerve impulses, which results in the intensification of activity of this neurotransmitter.

By intensifying the activity of serotonin, the so-called hormone of happiness, Ashwagandha positively influences cognitive processes. Noticeable improvement of memory, concentration and logical thinking take place. Moreover, the improvement of mood, self-confidence and reduction of anxiety are observed. Many studies were carried out, which proved that Ashwagandha may reduce depression.

Active substances present in ashwagandha stimulate thyroid work. They stimulate this organ to produce active forms of hormones – triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). Thyroid hormones play very important functions in regulating metabolism, energy production and proper development of the organism. Ashwagandha may be therefore a valuable diet complementation in the therapy of ailments, in which deficiencies of these hormones appear, i.a. hypothyroidism. Apart from this, ashwagandha demonstrates immunomodulating properties, by stimulating the activity of lymphocytes Tc. Regular application improves blood parameters (decreases the level of total cholesterol, LDL and triglycerides).

Ashwagandha demonstrates properties lowering cortisol level. Cortisol is a corticosteroid hormone, which is produced in the adrenal cortex. Not without a reason it is called a stress hormone, as high levels of cortisol are observed in chronic stress. Excessive concentration of cortisol maintaining for a long time results in the disorders of the work of the organism. The symptoms may be i.a. abdominal obesity, osteoporosis and immunity drop. Ashwagandha, by influencing the drop of cortisol level supports the work of adrenals, minimizing the negative consequences of stress and decreases inflammations. The improvement of tissue sensitivity to insulin is also observed.

To sum up, Swanson Ashwagandha is an effective dietary supplement which helps to maintain emotional balance and decreases susceptibility to stress factors. The preparation is especially recommended to people complaining about chronic stress, leading an intensive lifestyle, performing intellectual work, overworked, dealing with low mood and having problems falling asleep.