Shoden (Ashwagandha, 35% Withanolides)
Shoden is a standardized ashwagandha extract containing 35% withanolides that reduces cortisol levels by up to 32% through modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. This patented extract demonstrates superior bioavailability compared to standard ashwagandha supplements.
Origin & History
Shoden is a high-potency extract of Ashwagandha standardized to contain 35% withanolides, derived from the roots of the plant using a proprietary extraction process.
Historical & Cultural Context
Ashwagandha has been used in traditional Indian medicine for centuries, valued for its adaptogenic properties and ability to enhance mental and physical health.
Health Benefits
- Reduces stress and anxiety: Shoden lowers cortisol levels by up to 32%, fostering a sense of calm and relaxation. This supports mental well-being and stress resilience. - Enhances cognitive function: It improves memory and concentration, enhancing mental clarity and reducing cognitive decline risks. This aids in maintaining sharp cognitive abilities. - Boosts energy and vitality: Shoden increases energy levels and reduces fatigue, supporting an active and vibrant lifestyle. This leads to improved physical performance. - Supports immune health: It enhances immune response by modulating immune cell activity, reducing the risk of infections. This strengthens the body's defense against illnesses. - Promotes restful sleep: Shoden improves sleep quality by regulating sleep cycles, leading to deeper, more restorative rest. This enhances overall well-being and daytime alertness. - Balances hormones: It regulates hormone levels, supporting reproductive health and overall hormonal balance. This leads to improved mood and vitality. - Supports cardiovascular health: Shoden reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, lowering the risk of heart disease. This promotes a healthier heart and circulatory system.
How It Works
Shoden's concentrated withanolides, particularly withanoside IV and withanoside VI, modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis by inhibiting cortisol release and enhancing GABA signaling. The extract's bioactive compounds cross the blood-brain barrier more effectively than standard ashwagandha, allowing for enhanced interaction with cortisol receptors and neurotransmitter pathways. This leads to downregulation of stress-responsive genes and improved neuroplasticity markers.
Scientific Research
Studies, including RCTs, have demonstrated Shoden's efficacy in reducing stress and improving sleep and cognitive function, attributed to its high withanolide content.
Clinical Summary
Clinical trials on Shoden have primarily involved small to medium-sized studies with 50-100 participants over 8-12 week periods. Research demonstrates significant cortisol reduction of up to 32% compared to placebo groups, with additional improvements in stress perception scores and sleep quality metrics. Cognitive function studies show moderate improvements in attention and memory tasks, though larger long-term trials are needed to confirm these effects. The evidence quality is considered moderate, with most studies being randomized controlled trials but limited by sample size.
Nutritional Profile
Shoden is a highly concentrated ashwagandha extract standardized to 35% withanolides by HPLC, making it one of the highest withanolide-concentration extracts commercially available. Primary bioactive compounds include withanolides (35% concentration, primarily withaferin A, withanolide D, withanolide A, and withanosides), which are steroidal lactones responsible for the majority of adaptogenic effects. Withanosides (notably withanosides IV and VI) contribute to neuroprotective and nootropic activity. The extract also contains alkaloids including isopelletierine, anaferine, and cuscohygrine at trace levels (<1%). Saponins are present contributing to bioavailability enhancement. Iron content is naturally present in ashwagandha root at approximately 3.3 mg per 100g of raw root, though concentrated in extract form at lower functional doses (120mg typical serving). Protein-derived amino acids including tryptophan are present in minor quantities. Starch and fiber content are minimal in this concentrated extract form due to purification processing. The glycowithanolides in Shoden demonstrate enhanced oral bioavailability compared to standard ashwagandha root powder due to the extraction and concentration process. At the studied clinical dose of 120mg daily, the 35% standardization delivers approximately 42mg of active withanolides per serving, compared to 300-600mg doses required with standard 5% extracts for equivalent effect.
Preparation & Dosage
The recommended dosage for Shoden is typically 120 milligrams per day. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Synergy & Pairings
L-Theanine, Valerian Root, Chamomile
Safety & Interactions
Shoden is generally well-tolerated with mild side effects including drowsiness, stomach upset, and headaches in some users. It may interact with medications for diabetes, blood pressure, and immunosuppressants due to ashwagandha's effects on blood sugar and immune function. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid Shoden as safety data is insufficient. Individuals with autoimmune conditions should consult healthcare providers before use as ashwagandha may stimulate immune system activity.