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Taken from the online Press Release of the latest study on Ashwagandha At 35% withanolide glycosides, Shoden® ashwagandha extract by Arjuna Naturals outperforms other commercial ashwagandha products in a clinical study Kerala, India — A new clinical study identified withanolide glycosides as the key drivers of superior bioavailability in ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extracts. This marks the first direct evidence in humans that the type of withanolide—not just the total content —significantly influences absorption and efficacy. Shoden® ashwagandha extract, the innovation of nutraceutical pioneers Arjuna Natural Pvt., Ltd., demonstrated superior performance in uptake in the volunteer subjects. The randomized, open-label, crossover clinical study, led by Priyank Rathi, MD, was published in the science journal last July. It evaluated the bioavailability in 16 healthy human volunteers of four commercially available, standardized ashwagandha extracts with varying compositions, including: Shoden standardized to 35% Withania somnifera withanolide glycosides (WS-35), 10% (WS-10), 5% (WS-5), or 2.5% (WS-2.5). Each sample was standardized to deliver 185mg of total withanolides. Seventeen blood samples were collected over a 24-hour period after dosing. Plasma concentrations of withanolide A, withanoside IV, withaferin A, and total withanolides were quantified, and pharmacokinetic parameters—how the body metabolizes a substance over time—were calculated. Results of the study revealed striking differences in their pharmacokinetic profiles. Extracts rich in withanolide glycosides—particularly those derived from the plant—demonstrated markedly higher systemic exposure. With Shoden in the lead, these extracts showed longer half-lives, indicating prolonged circulation of active compounds in the body. New gold standard -“Clinical data now confirm that withanolide glycosides stand out not just for quantity but for quality, with higher bioavailable than other withanolide types,” reveals Benny Antony, PhD, Joint Managing Director of Arjuna Natural. “Our findings suggest that the strength of ashwagandha is in its withanolide profile, specifically the chemical nature of the withanolides—and not their total amount. This plays a critical role in determining the uptake and metabolism of ashwagandha extracts in the body for optimal effect. This study emphasized the importance of extract composition and the plant parts used.” Shoden® is a highly bioactive extract of ashwagandha, with an industry-leading 35% withanolide glycosides, the key active compounds in the plant. Derived from carefully chosen and validated ashwagandha sources, Arjuna employs a proprietary extraction process to deliver a potent holistic charge of the popular adaptogenic, even at a uniquely low dose of 60 mg. Also known as “Indian ginseng,” the botanical powerhouse has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries as a “rasayana,” a rejuvenator, due to its scientifically validated capacity to enhance overall resilience and vitality and promote longevity and mental wellness. Ashwagandha is also noted for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. Yet Withania extracts available in the market differ considerably in their active compound profiles, analytical methods, plant parts used, manufacturing processes, and recommended dosages. These variables can potentially affect the absorption and therapeutic efficacy of the extracts. This study marks the latest milestone in Arjuna’s robust collection of 12 clinical studies of Shoden. They showcase Shoden’s positive role in relieving stress and anxiety and improving sleep quality. Research indicates its mechanisms of action include the ability to regulate the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis, reducing the stress hormone cortisol and increasing relaxing GABA neurotransmitters. One clinical study highlighting its immunomodulating benefits revealed natural improvements in immune cell markers. And toxicity studies have endorsed its safety. “Shoden outperformed other dominant formulations” “These findings have major implications for both consumers and supplement manufacturers. As ashwagandha continues to gain popularity for its adaptogenic, cognitive, and stress-relieving benefits, the current research underscores the need for more detailed labeling and standardization that goes beyond total withanolide content. Future clinical studies and product formulations should consider the specific withanolide profile—particularly the presence of glycosides—to deliver ashwagandha extracts with maximum efficacy and consistency,” concludes Antony. Shoden has been internationally recognized for the 23 patents attributed to its unique formulation and manufacturing process. It is available in three doses and in various supplement formats, including pills, capsules, and powders. Its low-dose capabilities allow for its seamless integration into functional foods and beverages. Arjuna exhibit at Vitafoods Asia 2025, Booth #H34 and also at SupplySide West, Booth #6517. Nutraingredients  Nutrition Insight  NBR Nutritional Outlook   Nutraceuticals World   Others  

A NEW CLINICAL study of Somin-On™, an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) withanolide extract standardized to Sominone, highlights its potential for improving memory and cognitive function in adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Arjuna Natural will showcase Somin-On at Vitafoods Europe, Barcelona, 20-22nd May 2025, Booth 4J2. Somin-on is the newest addition to Arjuna Natural, Pvt. Ltd.’s prized portfolio of branded botanical formulations. Unique to this ashwagandha formulation is that it is standardized to NLT 2% content Sominone (established via HPLC) and is designed to focus primarily on enhancing specific cognitive functions, such as attention and memory retention. Plant-powered cognitive support. “Our new ashwagandha formulation was developed in direct response to the rising concerns of cognitive decline among today’s aging population,” exclaims Benny Antony, PhD, Joint Managing Director of Arjuna Natural. “This group is actively seeking natural solutions to maintain mental clarityand focus, and help prevent any potential onset of dementia as its members age. Somin-On offers a promising, safe, and natural approach for supporting brain function helping older adults stay sharp and mentally agile.” MCI is a condition where individuals experience noticeable memory and cognition difficulties, although not yet severe enough to interfere with daily life. Globally, some 16% of people older than 70 years experience some type of MCI. However, research has shown that approximately 50% of people diagnosed with MCI will develop Alzheimer’s disease within 5 years. MCI is also considered an early indicator of other forms of dementia. “There currently is no approved standard oftreatment available for MCI in the allopathic medical world,” informs Antony. “Somin-On is our answer to this unmet need and to help address the issue ofcognitive decline using natural agents.” Led by Hari Prakash Rai, PhD, this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology in March 2025 and enrolled 40 adults with MCI. Conducted at the Hi-Tech Hospital and Trauma Center, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, India, the participants were divided into two groups: one received 250mg of Somin-On daily, while the other received a placebo over a period of 60 days, with assessments conducted at 30 and 60 days. Fuel for focusThe study subjects taking Somin-On showed significant improvements in multiple areas of cognitive function compared to the placebo. Improvements were observed in immediate memory, general memory, and working memory, as assessed by the Wechsler Memory Scale-III (WMS-III). Somin-On clearly outperformed the placebo in other mental parameters. Visuospatial processing was improved significantly between days 30 and 60 in the Somin-On group, according to scores of theShepard Mental Rotation Test. Moreover, Somin-On supplementation was associated with significant improvement in additional memory assessments, including the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), which examines various memory functions, including repeating listsof words, arithmetic, language use, and comprehension, as well as basic motor skills. The results suggest a potential role for Somin-On in enhancing attention, accelerating information processing, and improving overall cognitive performance, while reducing cognitive impairment. “Sominone, derived from Withania somnifera, is identified as the main active metabolite responsible for these specific effects,” explains Antony. “Ashwagandha is a traditional Ayurvedic herb thathas been widely used for centuries to manage stress and anxiety, and cognitive support function. This compound has been identified and extensively analyzed for its potential benefits in enhancing memory and cognitive functions.” Sominone has been shown to repair nerve cells and neural connections in rat brain cells damaged by amyloid-beta, a plaque-forming protein known to damage brain cells when it builds up in the brain. In animal models, it has been shown to enhance neurite outgrowth and improve spatial memory as well as nerve cell growth and repair, leading to cognitive enhancement. Moreover, the ashwagandha extract is known to reduce oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, contributing to its neuroprotective and anti-degenerative properties. Somin-On was crafted as a sequel to Arjuna’s flagship ashwagandha extract, Shoden. Standardized to 35% withanolide glycosides, Shoden is designed to alleviate stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and is supported by multiple clinical studies.Taken from the magazine – Innovation in Food Technology | Issue I 07, May 2025