The Top 5 Kava Root Supplements of 2018

One of the most popular natural supplements for relaxation is the kava root.

Used by natives of the Pacific islands for years, the root has become increasingly popular globally for its calming and soothing effects.

This root can treat a variety of medical issues including ADHD, epilepsy, migraines, and anxiety. But there are also important safety concerns regarding kava root that you should be aware of before trying it. 

But before we get into the benefits and side effects of kava root, we’ve ranked the top 5 kava root supplements according to price, product quality, and customer reviews.

So what’s the best kava root on the market?

1- Wakacon Kava

Lowest price on Amazon

Wakacon “Fijian Waka” Kava is a potent kava supplement in fine powder form, ready to be strained and brewed into a calming kava drink.

Once you purchase the bag of kava powder the company will email you a PDF with detailed instructions on how to properly and safely prepare and consume it.

It is important to note that this product requires a strainer in order to use it (you can check out Wakacon’s recommended strainer here).

So what makes this particular kava product so special?

Here’s what the company has to say:

“Our kava consist of Lateral and Crown Root only, we never use the stems or leaves in any of our products. We specifically hand pick our kava from known Noble growers. Our Kava is tested at University of the South Pacific and found to be Noble.”

Definitely not the cheapest kava supplement on the market, but the customer reviews are impressive regarding the product quality and potency, so it’s easy to see why it’s by far the best-selling kava product on Amazon.

Buy Wakacon Kava on Amazon

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2- Now Foods Kava Kava Extract

Lowest price on Amazon

Now Foods offers many popular supplements in the supplement space, and their kava kava extract is no exception.

With 250mg of kava root extract per capsule (standardized to contain min. 30% Kavalactones) and 100mg of organic eleuthero, it’s one of the most affordable kava supplements sold on the entire internet.

It is important to note that natural color may vary with this product, but product quality is ensured by Now Foods.

Recommended dosage instructions: Take 1 capsule 1 to 2 times daily as needed. Daily usage not to exceed 4 weeks.

Buy Now Foods Kava Kava Extract on Amazon

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3- Gaia Herbs Kava Kava Root

Lowest price on Amazon

Gaia Herbs offer a unique kava supplement – this one comes in liquid phyto-capsules.

The phyto-capsules offer better bio-availability and are sourced from kava root ecologically harvested from Vanuatu. Each capsule contains 75 mg of Kavalactones.

Recommended dosage instructions: Adults take 1 capsule 3 times daily between meals. Maximum time of use: one month.

This product is 100% vegan and free of pesticides and heavy metal toxicity.

Buy Gaia Herbs Kava Kava Root on Amazon

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4- DrinkRoot Premium Organic Kava

Lowest price on Amazon

One of the most convenient kava supplements out there, this kava supplement comes in ready-to-mix packets that don’t require any straining.

Simply pour the powder packet into warm or cold water (not hot), stir and enjoy.

Each packet contains 2-3 servings of kava, depending on your tolerance. If you are just trying kava out for the first time, start with a smaller dose and work your way up.

This product is 100% organic, non-GMO, and non-toxic – free of harsh chemicals, pesticides, and additives.

Buy DrinkRoot Premium Organic Kava on Amazon

5- Source Naturals Kava

Lowest price on Amazon

Using kava root sourced from the island of Vanuatu, Source Naturals offers a great kava supplement for “occasional anxiety”.

Loaded with 500mg of kava extract per tablet (yielding 150mg of Kavalactones), makes this a powerful, premium kava supplement.

Here’s what separates the Source Naturals company from their competition:

“Our commitment to quality begins with sourcing botanical powders and extracts and other raw materials, including organic and non-GMO verified ingredients when available. Unlike many other brands, we do our own manufacturing and have complete control over all aspects of raw material procurement, formulation, and quality testing.”

Take 1-2 tablets daily – 30 tablets total in the bottle.

Buy Source Naturals Kava on Amazon

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What is kava root?

Kava root is a plant that is native to the western Pacific. The extract taken from the root or stump of the Kava shrub (Piper methysticum).

It can be taken orally or applied to the skin to treat various ailments. Kava root extract is added to beverages and it is a popular social drink in the South Pacific where it is consumed similar to alcohol in the West. The word “Kava” is from the Polynesian word “Awa”, which means bitter.

Kava is a depressant drug, which means that it slows down the delivery of signals between the body and the brain (pretty much the opposite of a nootropic). For that reason, it is used as treatment for anxiety, stress, restlessness, and sleep disorders. It can be used to treat ADHD, drug withdrawals, psychosis, depression, and chronic fatigue syndrome.

Kava works by affecting the function of the brain and other parts of our central nervous system. The kava-lactones in the extract are believed to be the active ingredient and responsible for these effects.

What are the benefits of kava root?

Although there are several side effects associated with the popular extract, there is also a substantial amount of evidence showing the positive effects of kava root when used to treat the following:

• Helps with anxiety

In 2003, German researchers compared using 400 mg of Kava a day with the standard doses of two popular anti-anxiety medications in a case study that involved 129 people. After eight weeks of treatment, all three groups had equally effective results.

Another group of German scientists compared the use of 100mg of Kava three times a day with the standard doses of two drugs in the same family as Valiums. The case study involved 172 people. After six weeks of treatment, all three groups also had equally effective results.

Kava has been shown to treat the effects of anxiety such as dizziness, nervousness, and restlessness. There have been many studies performed on the benefits of taking kava for anxiety relief and the majority of these studies have been positive [1].

• Helps with benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms

Early research on the extract has shown that a gradual dose of kava over the course of a week while simultaneously decreasing the dose of benzodiazepines over the course of two weeks could help reduce the withdrawal symptoms while also reducing anxiety in those who have been taking the drugs for a number of years.

While there is not much evidence out there regarding this benefit, the results of the studies we do have shown very positive results.

• Helps prevent cancer

Kava root contains Flavokawains which are believed to have cancer fighting properties [2].  Studies that compared the toxicity of kava and the cellular adaption of the human hepatocyte cell line showed a decrease in oxidative stress.

Some results even showed a significant amount of cell death, allowing experts to believe that kava could potentially be used as a chemopreventive or as a chemotherapeutic agent [3].

• Helps with sleep disorders

Since kava is a sedative, it can effectively be used to treat various sleep disorders including insomnia. Research shows that taking kava extract daily for 4 weeks can reduce sleeping problems in individuals with anxiety issues.

• Helps with menstrual and menopause symptoms

A small amount of research performed on the extract shows that taking kava every day for 8 weeks can reduce hot flashes in menopausal women and decrease feelings of stress or anxiety. Taking the extract daily for three months could also reduce feeling of depression.

• Helps manage stress

Taking a single dose of kava extract by mouth could help relieve the symptoms associated with stress and promote a feeling of calmness and overall well-being (similar to chamomile tea).

• Helps with tobacco withdrawal symptoms

Kava can help to eliminate the challenges associated with drug and alcohol addiction. Because it has a relaxing effect, kava can help individuals cope with the cravings and anxiety associated with quitting.

Additional health conditions that Kava is believed to treat include:

• Restlessness
• ADHD
• Epilepsy
• Psychosis
• Depression
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Common Cold
• Respiratory Tract Infection
• Tuberculosis
• Sexual Arousal
• Muscle Pain
• Urinary Tract Infection
• Swelling of the Uterus
• Wound Healing
• Skin Disease

What are the side effects of kava root?

Kava is a controversial supplement because of its severe side effects. Since it can be used as a sedative and is considered an alternative to alcohol, it should be taken responsibly and as directed.

One of the most serious issues associated with taking kava orally is liver damage. This has occurred with both short and long-term use of the extract in normal doses. Individuals who have used kava for as little as three months have resulted in the need for liver transplants while others had fatal results.

The early signs of liver damage to look for when taking kava include

• Jaundice
• Fatigue
• Dark Urine

If you choose to take Kava despite these warnings, it is important that you have your liver function tested frequently. The extract is known to cause liver issues even in healthy individuals. Those who already have liver disease or have a history of liver problems should avoid taking kava as it will only increase their risk of developing severe issues.

Additional side effects to taking kava can include:

• Disorientation
• Depression
• May worsen the effects of Parkinson’s Disease
• May increase the effects of anesthesia, do not take kava at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take kava (prenatal vitamins would be a better choice). There are concerns that it may have a negative effect on the uterus. Plus, some of the dangerous chemicals in the extract can pass into breast milk.

Why is kava root so toxic to the liver?

Kava’s effect on the liver is a great mystery to many. The root has been used traditionally in the South Pacific for centuries without any record of causing the islanders liver problems. However, there have been one hundred people throughout the world diagnosed with liver toxicity associated with taking kava.

It is questionable that the reason for liver damage with these individuals could have been the result of another drugs they were taking the same time as taking kava. Research shows that out of the 100 cases, there were only 14 individuals with liver toxicity cases deemed to be a direct result of kava use [4]. To put that into perspective, that means kava causes liver damage for every 100 million doses of kava sold.

One observation concerning the link between kava root and liver damage is that the kava used during the time of these cases may have been harvested incorrectly.

Kava is a slow-growing plant and when it first become popular in the Western world, there wasn’t enough of the plant produced to meet the demand. The suppliers may have decided to use the leaves and stems of the plant at the time to make up for their loss.

However, the leaves and stems of kava plants contain alkaloids and should not be used during the extraction process [5] .  While this could be the answer to the debate over the safety of taking kava, the side effects and warnings should still be considered by all who take the extract.

How do you take kava root?

In the Pacific Islands, Kava root is crushed, ground down or chewed. Then it is soaked in cold water to create a beverage that is used for ceremonies and cultural rituals.

These rituals are believed to strengthen the bond among groups on the islands and help people communicate with the spirits. Kava has been a popular drink for generations among the Pacific Islanders. Those who have now settled in Australia continue to drink Kava and use the extract for healing purposes.

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander tribes first started using Kava when it was introduced to Australian communities in the 1980s. It was intended to be used as an alternative to alcohol and reduce the harmful effects of drinking alcohol within the community. The drink is often used as a sedative by the aboriginal tribes, as well as a muscle relaxer and hypnotic.

Kava extract is also used in herbs as a supplement. You can purchase capsules over the counter to use as treatment for anxiety, stress, and insomnia. While the extract has been removed from the markets in Canada and Europe, Kava is currently not banned in the United States.

To take Kava for anxiety, it is recommended that users take 50 to 100 mg three times a day for up to 25 weeks.

Recap

Kava is an extract taken from the root of a shrub native to the Pacific Islands. This extract has been used by the islanders for centuries as an alternative to alcohol and a stress reliever.

As kava root gained popularity in the Western world, the concerns about the harmful side effects of this sedative were on the rise. There were several reports of harmful and even fatal liver damage in users who had also taken kava extract. However, there is also belief that poor harvesting of the root caused the liver damage.

While there may be serious risks linked to taking kava root, there are many who believe that the advantages of this extract far outweigh the risks.

Kava has been shown to help decrease the symptoms associated with anxiety, sleep disorders, and drug withdrawals. It is also known to be effective in eliminating cancer cells (much like turmeric).

The post The Top 5 Kava Root Supplements of 2018 appeared first on HealthRanks.org.

This article first appeared on Health Ranks - https://healthranks.org/kava-root/

The Top 5 Turmeric Supplements of 2018

Turmeric is a bright orange root from the ginger family and has become quite popular for its natural anti-inflammatory and brain boosting properties.

When you find a natural supplement that can help relieve pain, boost energy, and help you to remain in good health, it can be a great relief, especially for those who want to limit the amount of prescription drugs they take.

What makes this versatile superfood so great? We’ll cover all the benefits of turmeric, along with how it works and how to take turmeric supplements.

But first, we’ve ranked the top 5 turmeric supplements according to the product quality, pricing, and the customer reviews.

So what’s the best turmeric supplement on the market?

1- Vitabalance Turmeric Plus

Lowest price we found

Vitabalance offers one of the purest and most potent turmeric supplements the market has ever seen.

With a triple combination of turmeric root, turmeric curcuminoids, and BioPerine (a patented product sourced from peperine proven to increase bioavailability of nutritional compounds), Vitabalance offers a versatile turmeric supplement for all-around nutrition.

Here are the official supplement facts:

This product is made in the USA in an FDA registered facility that follows strict GMP guidelines, however ingredients used in the formula are both domestic and imported.

Recommended dosage instructions: Take 2 capsules daily with a meal (for best results, take one capsule during the day and one during the evening).

Buy Vitabalance Turmeric Plus Online

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2- BioSchwartz Turmeric Curcumin

Lowest price on Amazon

BioSchwartz Turmeric Curcumin is a powerful turmeric supplement, loaded with 1350mg of turmeric root in each 3 capsule serving.

This product also contains 10mg of black pepper extract to enhance the nutritional properties of the turmeric.

What separates BioSchwartz from their competition? Here’s what the company says:

“No other brand looks at quality quite the way we do. We devote the time and personnel to verify ingredient safety, and test for purity and quality at multiple steps, all to make sure our pure turmeric powder is tested for solvent residues, heavy metals, pesticides, and toxins.

The result? We created a higher level of purity, safety, and quality for a superior turmeric product.

While most companies only use 1 or 2 seals, our Turmeric Curcumin has 3 seals: an integrity and tamper proof seal to close the box, a pre-perforated neck-band and a heat-induction inner seal.”

The company goes above and beyond to ensure product quality and safety, so it’s no surprise that their product is one of the top selling turmeric supplements on Amazon.

It is important to note that this turmeric product is 100% free of gluten, soy, milk, egg, shellfish, corn, wheat, and peanuts.

Buy BioSchwartz Turmeric Curcumin on Amazon

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3- Nature’s Nutrition Turmeric Curcumin

Lowest price on Amazon

With one of the most affordable turmeric supplements out there, Nature’s Nutrition offers a great turmeric solution.

In each 3 capsule serving you get a whopping 1800mg dose of turmeric, along with 15 mg of black pepper extract. The turmeric root powder is made from natural turmeric roots that have been boiled, dried, and ground.

This product also comes with a 60-day 100% money back guarantee which is nice for any skeptical customers who might want to give it a try before determining if it’s the right turmeric supplement for them.

Recommended dosage instructions: As a dietary supplement, take one (1) capsule three (3) times per day. For best results take 20-30 min before a meal or as directed by your doctor.

Buy Nature’s Nutrition Turmeric on Amazon

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4- Gaia Herbs Turmeric Supreme

Lowest price on Amazon

This unique turmeric supplement promotes “curcumin synergy” with both organic and ecologically harvested turmeric ingredients.

Here’s what Gaia Herbs has to say about their curcumin synergy:

“Turmeric Supreme represents full Curcumin Synergy. Our unique formulation creates a powerful whole plant profile of Turmeric’s valuable properties. Turmeric Supreme provides more curcumin per capsule than other products in our Curcumin Synergy line.

It may be taken alone or combined with one of these targeted formulations. Curcumin Synergy: For thousands of years Turmeric has been valued in Ayurveda.

Today, science has identified compounds in Turmeric, curcumins in particular, which support healthy inflammatory function — maintaining overall health and vitality. The Turmeric Supreme family of products represents full Curcumin Synergy by delivering better absorption, better support.”

Each capsule contains 406mg of organic turmeric root extract, 42mg of turmeric extract (36mg of Curcumins from total EtOH extract) and there are 120 capsules in the bottle.

Buy Gaia Herbs Turmeric Supreme on Amazon

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5- Naturewise Curcumin

Lowest price on Amazon

Naturewise is a popular brand in the supplement industry (primarily in weight loss supplement categories like raspberry ketones, garcinia cambogia, and green coffee bean extract).

Their Curcumin product is almost just as popular, and for a good reason.

Each capsule contains 750mg of their proprietary turmeric blend, along with 35mg of organic ginger and 15mg of BioPerine.

Here’s what separates this product from other leading turmeric supplements:

“Curcumin is an active polyphenol in turmeric. Polyphenols are plant-based antioxidants, and evidence for their role in preventing degenerative conditions is increasing. NatureWise Organic Curcumin additionally includes organic ginger, a polyphenol with complementary antioxidant properties.

The combined support of curcumin and ginger may assist in several protective functions in the GI tract and in the liver, and in several studies curcumin has demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity.”

This product is 100% free of wheat, dairy, gluten, corn, soy, eggs, tree nuts, peanuts, fish, and shellfish.

Buy Naturewise Curcumin on Amazon

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What is turmeric?

Turmeric is commonly used as a spice that is part of the ginger family. It is native to the East India and Middle East area where it has been used for centuries as a flavor enhancer and for medicinal purposes.

The name “Turmeric” comes from the Persian word “Saffron”. It is a domesticated plant mainly found in India where most of today’s turmeric powder is produced. Other producers of turmeric are located in China, Taiwan, Japan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Jamaica, and Haiti.

It has a strong, peppery flavor and is often added to curry and similar foods. It is also used to make yellow mustard.

When it was first used as an anti-inflammatory many years ago, it was discovered that turmeric could be used to treat a broad range of health conditions. Those include:

• Jaundice
• Blood in urine
• Menstrual ussues
• Hemorrhaging
• Toothaches
• Bruises
• Chest pain
• Flatulence
• Colic

Turmeric is still used today to treat these and other medical conditions. As studies reveal more benefits of this powerful supplement, more people choose to add it to their daily dietary supplements.

How does turmeric work?

Many people wonder how a simple root can improve our health in so many ways. Turmeric contains an active ingredient known as curcumin, which is the key factor in how the supplement works.

Curcumin has several therapeutic benefits, including the ability to fight cancerous cells by slowing their growth [1].

While there isn’t enough evidence at this time to say for sure that turmeric can cure cancer, or reduce its effects, research is still ongoing and experts are hopeful that they can find more proof.

Since curcumin has antioxidant properties that can decrease inflammation, it is believed that it can be used as a form of cancer treatment. That is because inflammation plays a prominent role in cancer cells.

Lab tests have shown that curcumin could slow the spread of cancer. And make chemo more effective. It could also be used to protect good cells from damage due to radiation therapy. At this time, curcumin is under research to treat various types of cancer. Regardless of whether we have proof or not, many cancer patients are already using the supplement on a daily basis in hopes to improve their health and overall well-being.

Tests on turmeric extract showed that the spice could be helpful with improving the look and feel of our skin. During a study, turmeric was used on skin damaged from UV rays. Over a six-week time period, researchers saw a positive change in the test subject’s skin. It was more hydrated and had a higher sebum content [2]. 

What are the benefits of turmeric?

While slowing the growth of cancer cells is a miraculous benefit, it is still not 100% proven at this time.

But, there are many other known benefits of turmeric that have helped make this powder a popular dietary supplement.

Here are some of those benefits:

• Improves Skin Conditions

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric have been proven effective in treating various types of skin conditions. Some of the benefits include faster healing time, reducing the size of pores, decreasing acne, and controlling psoriasis flaring.

If you choose to use turmeric for your skin condition, keep in mind that it can stain the skin, and can cause an allergic reaction with some users. The first time you use it, apply a small amount of powder to your forearm, and wait 24 to 48 hours to check for any allergic reaction before applying the powder to other areas.

• Has Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Chronic, long-term inflammation can be destructive to our body tissues. Inflammation is believed to play a role in many of today’s diseases such as cancer, metabolic syndrome, Alzheimer’s disease, and heart disease.

Curcumin contains strong anti-inflammatory properties, just like camu camu berries. It is so powerful that it is believed to be just as effective as prescription anti-inflammatory drugs. Curcumin works by blocking the inflammatory path at a molecular level.

Several studies have shown that curcumin can successfully eliminate inflammation just as well as prescription drugs, without the harsh side effects [3].

• Joint Pain Relief

Since turmeric is an anti-inflammatory and pain-reducer, it can he used to treat joint pain associated with all types of arthritis. A study was conducted on patients with rheumatoid arthritis and compared the results of using curcumin in turmeric against the arthritis drug Diclofenac sodium.

The drug has harmful side effects that have put some users at risk of leaky gut and cardiovascular disease. The results of the study showed that the patients who took curcumin had a higher percentage of improvement in their pain level than those who took Diclofenac sodium [4].

• Lowers Cholesterol Levels

Curcumin can help relive the oxidative stress and the consistent inflammation to treat high cholesterol levels. Oxidative stress affects many people, but is most commonly seen in diabetics.

This condition damages blood vessels which leads to the build up of cholesterol and a rise in LDL levels. A recent study showed that curcumin was just as effective than diabetes medications at lowering oxidative stress and inflammation in efforts to treat high cholesterol [5].

• Helps Improve Gastrointestinal Conditions

Many times people who have stomach issues or digestive problems become intolerant to medical treatment. This is because their stomach flora has been compromised and the drugs basically destroy the mucosal lining of the stomach instead of solve the problem.

An analysis of all research performed on curcumin’s ability to alleviate symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases such as IBS, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease showed that many patients had stopped taking their prescribed medication because they found that taking turmeric supplements helped them more.

For many IBD patients, the medication they were prescribed, which was usually corticosteroids, damaged their intestinal lining. Yet supplementing with curcumin provided them with the same positive results, without the damaging side effects.

It helped to heal their gut while also supporting the growth of healthy bacteria (like the healthy bacteria found in probiotic supplements).

Other benefits of taking turmeric include:

• Improves Digestion
• Reduce Gas & Bloating
• Eliminates Congestion
• Promotes Heart Health
• Relieves Indigestion
• Improves Liver Function
• Prevents Alzheimer’s Disease

What are the side effects of turmeric?

Some individuals have reported side effects such as allergic reactions after applying the powder to their skin, or a mild, itchy rash.

Some other common side effects associated with turmeric use include:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Increased liver function
• Increased risk of bleeding
• Hyperactive gallbladder contractions
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Uterine contractions (in pregnant women)
• Increased menstrual flow

Individuals on certain types of medication should use caution when taking turmeric.

The supplement is known to interfere with anti-coagulants such as warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel. It is also known to affect non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs. Always be sure to use turmeric and any other herb or supplement (like ashwagandha or chamomile) as directed.

How do you take turmeric supplements?

Since turmeric is available in powder form, it can be used in several ways.

You can use it to make a refreshing golden tea, or add it to your eggs for breakfast. It is also an excellent spice to add to curries and soups.

Turmeric is also available in supplement form and may be taken in a CO2 extracted form. A recent study showed that taking turmeric mixed with black pepper can improve how your body absorbs the supplement. That is because of the piperine in black pepper.

By adding 20mg of piperine to 2mg of turmeric, you can increase the bioavailability of this product by as much as 154%.

Recap

After examining numerous studies on the supplement, results show that turmeric and its active ingredient curcumin is effective in treating issues such as high cholesterol, joint pain, and possibly even cancer.

You can add turmeric powder to several types of food such as soups and curries. Users can choose to add it to their diet in powder form, or by taking a dietary supplement.

There are some common side effects associated with turmeric such as skin irritation, diarrhea, nausea, and low blood pressure. If you are taking any prescription or over-the-counter medications, you should use turmeric with caution.

Many believe that it can slow down the progression of cancer cells, however more research is needed to confirm turmeric’s cancer fighting abilities.

The post The Top 5 Turmeric Supplements of 2018 appeared first on HealthRanks.org.

This article first appeared on Health Ranks - https://healthranks.org/turmeric/

The Top 5 Ashwagandha Supplements of 2018

Ashwagandha is a plant with roots and berries that contain ingredients that are believed to be beneficial for various health issues such as anxiety, insomnia, skin issues, tuberculosis, and asthma, just to name a few.

Research has also shown that it can be used to threat various thyroid and adrenal diseases. The herb had been used since ancient times as a part of Ayurvedic healing.

The name “Ashwagandha” means “The smell of a horse” which indicates that the herb can provide the user with the strength and vigor of a stallion. It has also been said that the root has a very strong aroma.

Traditionally, the herb is used to strengthen the immune system, usually following an illness that caused it to become weak.

So what’s the best ashwagandha supplement on the market?

1- NaturaLife Labs Organic Ashwagandha

Lowest price on Amazon

With a nice 1300 mg of organic ashwagandha per serving, NutraLife Labs makes one of the most potent and pure ashwagandha supplements out there.

This supplement contains both organic ashwagandha root powder and organic ashwagandha root extract, for a powerful premium blend.

Also included in each serving is 5 mg of black pepper extract to enhance the absorption process while still being gentle on your stomach.

Recommended dosage instructions: take two capsules daily with meals – 100 capsules total in the bottle.

This product is 100% free of fillers, magnesium stearate, dioxides, preservatives, gluten, soy, sugar, yeast, and starch.

Buy NaturaLife Labs Ashwagandha on Amazon

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2- Havasu Nutrition Ashwagandha

Lowest price on Amazon

This supplement contains 1000 mg of ashwagandha root powder per serving, along with 100 mg of artichoke leaf extract to enhance the digestion.

What makes this particular supplement so special? Here’s what the guys at Havasu Nutrition have to say:

“Our natural Ashwagandha helps your body adapt to and manage stress. Known for its ability to calm and balance “edgy” nerves, ashwagandha is the perfect natural solution for anyone who can feel overwhelmed, tired and easily irritated. Our formula contains NO preservatives, chemicals, or sugars so you can trust that you are using a natural supplement.”

They also put all of their products through a rigorous testing process that includes testing the raw materials along with the finished product.

Made in the USA and this product also comes with a hassle-free 60-day money back guarantee.

2 capsules per serving, 45 capsules total in the bottle.

Buy Havasu Nutrition Ashwagandha on Amazon

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3- EBYSU Ashwagandha

Lowest price on Amazon

Ashwagandha powder and black pepper extract, and 180 capsules in the bottle.

That’s what you get with this ashwagandha supplement made by EBYSU, a supplement company that uses cheaper ingredients but also maintains a high standard of quality.

Made in the USA using vegan and non-GMO capsules and produced in FDA compliant facilities.

With 1300 mg of ashwagandha per serving and 90 total servings in the bottle, EBYSU offers one of the most inexpensive ashwagandha supplements out there.

Buy EBYSU Ashwagandha on Amazon

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4- Sun Potion Pure Ashwagandha Root Powder

Lowest price on Amazon

If you’re looking for just pure, clean ashwagandha rood powder extract, Sun Potion has the product for you.

Using a cold water extract process, Sun Potion is able to produce a premium ashwagandha powder that maintains both potency and purity.

It’s not the cheapest ashwagandha supplement on the market, but 111 g of powder in the container should last you a while, depending on how you use it. Here are some serving suggestions offered by the guys at Sun Potion:

“Add a 1/2 teaspoons (2 grams) to warm water or tea. An excellent addition to milk potions, elixirs, smoothies, raw chocolate, busy schedules and more.”

This product is 100% organic, GMO free, and vegan safe with no additives.

Buy Sun Potion Ashwagandha on Amazon

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5- Nature’s Answer Ashwagandha

Lowest price on Amazon

If you prefer taking your supplements in liquid form, Nature’s Answer has the perfect ashwagandha supplement for you.

This convenient liquid product contains just ashwagandha root (Withania somnifera) extract, purified water, and vegetable glycerin.

It is important to note that while this product is alcohol-free, the product is produced using alcohol, water and natural extractants.

Recommended dosage instructions: take 1–2 mL (approx. 28–56 drops) 3 times a day in a small amount of water – 2 fl oz in the bottle.

Buy Nature’s Answer Ashwagandha on Amazon

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What is ashwagandha?

Often referred to as Indian Ginseng because the benefits are similar, Ashwagandha is a shrub that features yellow flowers and oval-shaped leaves.

The shrub bears a red fruit that is about the same size as a raisin. These berries and the root of the shrub are used for their medicinal benefits.

The Ashwagandha root has been used in ancient medicine for thousands of years. The shrub is native to the dry regions of India, as well as the Middle East and the northern part of Africa. Today it can also be grown in milder climates, such as parts of the United States.

How does ashwagandha work?

Ashwagandha root has been used to treat symptoms such as fatigue, poor focus, and stress.

The herb is known to help lessen the occurrence of these symptoms and provide more energy to the user, as well as an overall sense of well-being. It can be very useful for someone who has recently been ill with the flu, a severe cold, or virus because it can help them recover and feel better much faster.

Ashwagandha root can provide these benefits because of the chemicals it contains. These chemicals can help to calm the brain, reduce inflammation which can cause discomfort, and lower high blood pressure levels.

These useful chemicals include withanolides such as steroidal lactones, alkaloids, fatty acids, amino acids, choline, and various sugars.

Although the leaves and fruit of the Ashwagandha shrub contain therapeutic properties, the root is the part that is most commonly used in Western herbal medicines.

Research and studies have shown that Ashwagandha root can have a remarkable impact on your thyroid health. While scientists and medical experts still don’t fully understand how this ancient herb works or all the benefits that it provides, they are aware of the fact that it can help with balancing hormones.

Ashwagandha root can help those diagnosed with both hypo- and hyperthyroidism. It has been shown to provide support to those who have an inactive or slow-functioning thyroid gland such as those who have the less-common disease Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. Yet at the same time it has also shown to be effective in helping those who have the opposite condition, an over-active thyroid, or Graves disease.

In the majority of studies performed on the effectiveness of the root, it’s revealed that Ashwagandha has a positive effect in bringing balance back to the thyroid gland. In a 20-day trial performed on mice who were administered Ashwagandha, the T3 and T4 levels were observed.

The results showed that the Ashwagandha helped increase the T4 serum, which suggests that it can help stimulate a poor functioning thyroid.

With millions of people all over the world living with some form of thyroid disease, the use of this ancient herb could be very useful in providing these people with better overall health and well-being. Patients who have used Ashwagandha root for just a short time reported that they noticed some relief from the common symptoms associated with thyroid disease such as chronic fatigue and a decrease in libido [1].

The powerful root can also help with the renewal of the adrenal glands. Those who suffer from adrenal fatigue and ongoing stress can benefit from taking this helpful herb.

The adrenal glands release the hormones adrenaline and cortisol that respond to stress. If your adrenal glands are overworked, you can endure an emotional unbalance that can cause both physical and mental stress.

What are the benefits of ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha root has been used in ancient Indian medicine for generations. While science is still working to find out more about this unique herb, there are a few benefits that we already know about.

• Helps with Anxiety and ADHD

When combined with a healthy diet and relaxation methods such as deep breathing, Ashwagandha root has been shown to help alleviate the symptoms associated with anxiety.

It has also been used in children who have attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder. Some research has sown that the root could improve impulse control and help children to maintain focus. Exactly how the root is able to treat these disorders is unknown [2].

• Improves Cerebellar Ataxia

Limited research has shown that Ashwagandha root can relive the symptoms associated with the brain condition known as cerebellar ataxia. When combined with other medications, the root could help improve balance for people with this condition [3].

• Helps with Diabetes

There is some evidence available which shows that the root can help reduce high blood glucose levels in individuals who have diabetes [4].

• Improves Cholesterol Levels

Some evidence shows that people who have high cholesterol levels noticed improvements when they took the herbal root.

• Resolve Fertility Issues

Men who experience issues with fertility and libido could see positive results after taking an Ashwagandha root supplement. Preliminary clinical evidence has shown that the root could help improve sperm quality, but not sperm count, in men who are infertile [5].

• Helps with Arthritis

When taken in the supplement form along with other helpful ingredients, research has shown that Ashwagandha can be useful in improving symptoms of arthritis. It is still unknown if the root can help with symptoms of osteoarthritis.

What are the side effects of ashwagandha?

You should always use caution when taking a new herbal supplement. Many will have side effects that can interact with other types of medication. Ashwagandha root is considered to be safe for most individuals when taken for a short term. The long-term effects of this herb are unknown.

Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding shouldn’t take use any type of Ashwagandha supplement. There is some evidence that the herb could cause miscarriages. At this time, there isn’t enough information to conclude if the root is safe to use while breastfeeding. Therefore, it is best to avoid use.

Since Ashwagandha can help lower blood sugar levels, diabetics who use the supplement in excess could end up with very low readings which could be dangerous. Be sure to check your blood sugar frequently when taking Ashwagandha to avoid this issue.

Ashwagandha can also help to regulate blood pressure levels, therefore taking too much could lead to lower than normal blood pressure readings. Always use with caution if you have low blood pressure or are taking other medications to help lower your blood pressure.

The herb has been known to irritate the GI tract. Do not use if you have a stomach ulcer. It’s been said that large doses of the herb can cause stomach discomfort and diarrhea.

Ashwagandha root could cause the immune system to become more active for individuals with auto-immune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis.

Do not take Ashwagandha if you plan to have surgery any time soon. It could slow down the central nervous system and reduce the effects of anesthesia.

While Ashwagandha could help regulate thyroid levels in those who have a high or low functioning thyroid gland, those with the disease should use it with caution and have their levels checked regularly by their doctor.

How do you take ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha root is available in various forms such as powder, tablet, or liquid extract. Traditionally, it is used in powder form and mixed with honey and warm milk to implement a healthy sleep pattern. A typical dose of the herb is between ¼ to ½ tsp. once or twice per day. 

Ashwagandha powder can be taken with equal parts ghee and honey. You may also add sugar to give it a cooling effect.

Ashwagandha is also available to take in tablet form which can be more convenient, especially for those who don’t like the taste of the root.

Recap

The native Indian herb known as Ashwagandha has been used for centuries to create various types of medicine. The berries and the root are made into powder or liquid extract to treat a variety of health conditions such as insomnia, infertility, and arthritis.

Many studies have shown that this herb has the ability to regulate the thyroid gland which can be useful for those living with thyroid disease. Ashwagandha can also be used to regulate blood glucose levels in diabetics, and blood pressure levels.

Since the herb can have such an effect on our bodies, its important to only take the daily recommended dose and not exceed that amount. Ashwagandha is generally safe to use if it is taken as directed. It is available to take in powder, liquid, or tablet form.

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