Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is one of the best-known plants in Ayurvedic tradition and has been cultivated in South Asia for centuries. In recent years, the root has also increasingly come into the focus of nutritional science in Europe. But what is really behind it?
What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is a plant from the nightshade family. The name comes from Sanskrit and roughly means "strength of a horse" – a reference to the plant's traditional significance. The root contains a number of ingredients, including so-called withanolides, which are the subject of numerous scientific studies.
What does science say?
Ashwagandha is not an approved medicinal product and currently there are no health claims approved by the EU authorities (EFSA) for Ashwagandha extracts according to the Health Claims Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006. This means that statements about specific health effects may not be made on products or in advertising in the EU.
Nevertheless, Ashwagandha is legally available as a food supplement in Germany and the EU and is valued by many people as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
What matters for quality?
Not all Ashwagandha products are created equal. Crucial factors are:
Withanolide content: Standardized extracts indicate the withanolide content – an indicator of the concentration of plant ingredients
Part of the plant used: Traditionally, the root is used; leaf extracts have a different profile
Origin and control: Products from controlled cultivation with certification (e.g., organic) offer more transparency
Purity: No unnecessary fillers, anti-caking agents, or artificial additives
Ashwagandha in everyday life
Ashwagandha is typically taken as a capsule or powder. As a food supplement, it is not a substitute for a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. For questions about personal suitability, consultation with a medical or nutritional professional is recommended.
Conclusion
Ashwagandha is a fascinating plant with a long tradition and growing scientific interest. Those who wish to use Ashwagandha as a food supplement should pay attention to standardized extracts, transparent origin, and the highest purity – values that are paramount at Jennifer Frey.
