Ashwagandha, also called Indian ginseng or winter cherry, is a natural adaptogen that aids stress management. Two of the most popular forms of Ashwagandha extracts found in supplements are Sensoril vs KSM 66.
Ashwagandha extract is used to produce Sensoril and KSM-66 Ashwagandha supplements. “Ashwagandha” means “smell of the horse” and refers to the strong scent of the root extracts and the belief that it gives one the strength of a horse.
The Latin name for Ashwagandha is Withania somnifera, which translates to “sleep-inducing.” You can therefore use an Ashwagandha supplement to assist with stress relief and provide clean energy.
Below we will look at the differences between Sensoril Aswagandha and KSM-66 Ashwagandha extracts to help you determine which one is right for you.
What Is Sensoril Ashwagandha?
Sensoril Ashwagandha is produced by Nutragenesis and uses extracts from both the leaf and the roots. This supplement has plenty of health benefits, as it incorporates Glycowithanolides, which help with sleep and stress management.
Sensoril is USDA certified organic, Vegetarian, Non-GMO, and GRAS Affirmed.
How does Sensoril Ashwagandha work?
Sensoril Ashwagandha has been standardized to have a minimum of 10% withanolides glycosides. This is the highest concentration that can be purchased over the counter and exceeds root-only extract supplements.
When we become stressed, our “fight or flight” system kicks in through the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Sensoril Ashwagandha works by restoring balance in the HPA axis, regulating hormones, reducing stress, and improving cognitive function.
When is the best time to take Sensoril Ashwagandha?
The capsules can be taken twice a day – the first dose with breakfast and the second dose after lunch or in the afternoon.
How much Sensoril Ashwagandha should I take?
The recommended dosage is 450 mg a day.
The Benefits of Sensoril Ashwagandha
- Reduce stress
- Improve cognitive function
- Enhance sleep
- Improve mood
- Reduce pain
- Regulate blood sugar
- Improved cardiovascular health
What are the side effects of Sensoril Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha has been used for thousands of years, and its side effects are mild. Some individuals may experience a stimulating effect, although it is unusual.
Ashwagandha contains high iron levels, and this supplement should not be taken by those who retain iron.
Consult your physician before use during pregnancy.
What Is KSM-66 Ashwagandha?
KSM-66, produced by Ixoreal, is a supplement with natural ratios of specialized root extract. The extraction process uses milk to treat the roots by traditional Ayurvedic medicine practices.
Using this milk extraction process, KSM-66 is a full spectrum extract with 5% withanolides glycosides that can improve brain function, reduce stress, and help sleep and recovery.
How does KSM-66 Ashwagandha work?
As it is an adaptogen, this supplement helps the body to adapt to stressors through the bioactive constituents withanolide and saponin. These compounds balance hormones and calm cognitive processes to allow the body to relax.
When is the best time to take KSM-66 Ashwagandha?
KSM-66 Ashwagandha should be taken once a day with meals or before bedtime.
How much KSM-66 Ashwagandha should I take?
The recommended dosage is 300 – 500 mg of root-only extracts per day.
The Benefits of KSM-66 Ashwagandha
- Improves sleep and fights insomnia
- Reduces anxiety and stress
- Enhances libido in males because of increased testosterone
- Improves memory
- Lowers cortisol levels and regulates hormones
- Improved endurance and strength
What are the side effects of KSM-66 Ashwagandha?
The only reported side-effect of KSM-66 is drowsiness.
Which Ashwagandha Extract Is Right For Me?
With Sensoril and KSM-66 having many of the same benefits, you may be wondering how to decide which is the best Ashwagandha extract for you, especially since they use different parts of the Ashwagandha plant.
Deciding on the best Ashwagandha supplement will depend on your needs.
If you are looking for something 100% organic, KSM-66 could be the right choice, as Sensoril is only 95% organic. If you have a lactose allergy, then Sensoril would be best as KSM-66 uses milk. KSM-66 comes in powder form, which you can use in smoothies.
The best would be to give both supplements a try and see which your body reacts to the best.
FAQs
What is the difference between Ashwagandha root and leaf extracts?
Traditionally the roots were used internally while leaves were used topically. Roots are harvested in winter, as leaves wither and die during this season, and more nutrients are stored in the roots.
However, leaf extract and roots contain bioactive compounds that make Ashwagandha a relaxant. Leaves and roots both have high levels of withanone, which helps with stress relief and improved memory.
Which form of Ashwagandha is the best?
The best Ashwagandha supplements are potent, thoughtfully extracted, and available in a form that is easy to take. It will be up to you to decide whether you want to take daily capsules or use a powder form to mix into food and drinks.
Just keep the dosage in mind and make sure you do not exceed the recommended daily dosage.
Related: Greens powders with Ashwagandha
Is KSM-66 Ashwagandha safe?
Yes, KSM-66 is safe and has undergone clinical studies to verify its safety. It is produced without alcohol or chemicals, making it safe for the body and environment.
Who should not take Ashwagandha?
Pregnant women should not take Ashwagandha without consulting their physician.
Adults should also avoid it with stomach ulcers, an autoimmune disease, people who have surgery scheduled, or those taking other chronic medications, like immunosuppressants or thyroid drugs.
The Bottom Line: Sensoril vs KSM 66?
No matter the brand you prefer, the best Ashwagandha extract is the one that makes you feel your best. Whether you prefer the KSM-66 Ashwagandha root extract or the Sensoril extract that uses leaf and root extracts, the Ashwagandha benefits are undisputed.
The active constituents in Ashwagandha will help alleviate stress and improve sleep while supporting your immune system and balancing hormones.
The benefits of Ashwagandha have been enjoyed by people and those practicing Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. The products offered by Sensoril and KSM-66 mean you can now enjoy these benefits too.
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Ahh, the drowsiness side-effect really is at work when taking KSM-66 in my case. I wonder if I should go back to the supplement that contained Ashwagandha among other stuff, but it bothers me that they use titanium oxide for coloring the supplement, which is not needed and not healthy. It’s just that I don’t recall that supplement making me tired, but it’s difficult to compare overall effects.
Great article
Thanks PD.