Shoden® Ashwagandha Capsules In Kenya

Superior Bioavailability for Sleep, Stress & Vitality

Shoden® breaks new ground in ashwagandha effectiveness. This innovative extract delivers 35% withanolide glycosides, the industry's highest concentration of the most bioavailable ashwagandha compounds. Clinical research confirms withanolide glycosides provide superior absorption and extended circulation compared to standard withanolides. 

Time to Notice Full Effects: 1-2 Weeks (with sleep improvements often within days)

Perfect For:

Non-restorative sleep and sleep quality | Acute stress and anxiety relief | Cortisol management and hormonal balance | Low-dose, high-potency supplementation | Cognitive function and mental clarity | Overall vitality and well-being

Product Specifications

Active Ingredient

Shoden® Ashwagandha Extract (Withania somnifera root and leaf) - 120mg per capsule, standardized to contain 35% withanolide glycosides (42mg per capsule) measured by advanced HPLC/UPLC methods. Full-spectrum extract containing 21 identified bioactive withanolide compounds including the newly discovered Ashwanoside.,

Other Ingredients

Vegetable cellulose capsule, microcrystalline cellulose (plant fiber), magnesium stearate (vegetable source), silicon dioxide.

Quality Certifications

Manufactured in cGMP-certified facility following pharmaceutical-grade standards. Third-party tested by ISO-accredited laboratories using advanced analytical methods. GRAS-affirmed (Generally Recognized As Safe). Non-GMO verified, vegan-friendly, gluten-free, allergen-free.

What is Shoden Ashwagandha?

Shoden® represents a breakthrough in ashwagandha science. Developed by Arjuna Natural after years of research, this extract delivers an unprecedented 35% withanolide glycosides. Glycosides are withanolides bound to sugar molecules, significantly enhancing bioavailability and absorption compared to standard withanolide forms.

A 2025 clinical bioavailability study compared four commercial ashwagandha extracts in 16 healthy volunteers. Shoden demonstrated superior systemic exposure and longer circulation time of active compounds. This marked the first direct evidence in humans that the type of withanolide matters more than total withanolide content. Glycoside forms absorb better, circulate longer, and produce effects at lower doses.

The extract combines carefully selected roots and leaves, capturing the full spectrum of withanolide glycosides from both plant parts. Advanced extraction technology isolates 21 major bioactive compounds in their most bioavailable forms. This comprehensive profile delivers balanced, full-spectrum benefits at doses as low as 60-120mg.

The Shoden Advantage

Unmatched Bioavailability

Traditional ashwagandha extracts require 600-1000mg daily for therapeutic effects. Shoden achieves comparable results at 60-120mg due to superior withanolide glycoside bioavailability. Clinical trials confirm significant levels of active compounds remain in the bloodstream even six hours after ingestion. This extended circulation time provides sustained benefits from minimal dosing.

The bioavailability advantage comes from the glycoside structure. The attached sugar molecules improve water solubility and intestinal absorption. Once absorbed, glycosides remain stable in circulation longer than non-glycoside withanolides. This translates to more powerful effects from smaller doses.

Full Spectrum of Bioactive Compounds

While many extracts measure only 8-10 withanolides using standard USP methods, Shoden contains over 40 different withanolide types. Advanced HPLC/UPLC analysis identifies 21 major peaks on the chromatogram, including:

• Traditional withanolides (withaferin A, withanolide A, withanone)
• Withanolide glycosides (the primary active compounds)
• Ashwanoside (a newly discovered bioactive unique to Shoden)
• Supporting oligosaccharides and alkaloids

This comprehensive profile creates synergistic effects. The compounds work together more effectively than isolated withanolides, delivering balanced benefits for sleep, stress, hormones, and cognition.

Root and Leaf Synergy

Shoden's extraction uses both roots and leaves. Roots provide concentrated withanolide glycosides. Leaves contain additional glycoside compounds not found in roots. This combination creates a broader spectrum of bioactives than root-only extracts. The result is a well-rounded adaptogenic profile effective for multiple health concerns at low doses.

How Shoden Works

Optimizing Sleep Architecture

Shoden improves sleep through multiple mechanisms validated in clinical research. Laboratory studies show the extract modulates GABA receptors, promoting relaxation and sleep onset. Withanolide glycosides also affect histamine H3 receptors, which regulate sleep-wake cycles.

At the hormonal level, Shoden reduces evening cortisol. Elevated nighttime cortisol disrupts natural sleep patterns, preventing deep restorative sleep. By normalizing cortisol rhythms, Shoden allows your body to follow its natural circadian patterns. You fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and experience more restorative sleep cycles.

Modulating the Stress Response

Withanolide glycosides regulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, your central stress control system. When stress activates the HPA axis, cortisol floods your system. Short-term cortisol elevation helps you respond to challenges. Chronic elevation causes anxiety, poor sleep, hormonal imbalances, and cognitive impairment.

Shoden's glycosides modulate cortisol production at the source. Clinical trials show 22-33% reduction in morning cortisol levels after 60 days of supplementation. This creates resilience to stress. Daily challenges feel manageable rather than overwhelming. Anxiety decreases. Mood stabilizes. Energy improves as your body exits constant stress mode.

Supporting Hormonal Balance

Lower cortisol removes the primary inhibitor of testosterone production. Studies show Shoden increases testosterone levels in men by 22-33% over 60 days. This occurs through normalized HPA axis function and increased luteinizing hormone signaling. The result is natural testosterone optimization, particularly beneficial for men under chronic stress.

In women, Shoden supports hormonal balance without masculinizing effects. The extract helps regulate estrogen and progesterone patterns. Women report improved mood stability, better energy, and enhanced overall vitality.

What To Expect:

Days 1-7: Sleep improvements often appear within the first week. Many users notice faster sleep onset, fewer nighttime awakenings, and feeling more refreshed upon waking. Stress feels slightly more manageable. Some experience immediate calming effects.

Weeks 2-4: Full sleep benefits emerge. Sleep quality improves dramatically with deeper, more restorative sleep cycles. Stress resilience becomes pronounced. Anxiety decreases noticeably. Mood stabilizes and improves. Energy levels rise as sleep quality and cortisol normalization support natural vitality.

Weeks 4-8: Complete adaptogenic benefits reach peak effectiveness. Cortisol levels drop significantly. Testosterone increases in men. Cognitive performance improves with better focus, memory, and mental clarity. Overall sense of well-being maximizes. Physical and mental energy remain steady throughout the day.

Beyond 8 Weeks: Benefits maintain and often strengthen with continued use. Your body achieves optimal adaptation, providing sustained sleep quality, stable stress resilience, balanced hormonal function, and consistent vitality. Many users report Shoden becomes more effective over time as the body fully adapts.

Key Benefits

Superior Sleep Quality

Shoden excels at improving sleep through multiple validated mechanisms. Clinical trials show 72% improvement in self-reported sleep quality within 6 weeks. You fall asleep 35% faster as racing thoughts quiet and evening anxiety diminishes. Total sleep time increases by nearly 20%, giving your body more time for restoration. Sleep efficiency improves, meaning you spend more time in deep, restorative sleep stages rather than light, fragmented sleep. You wake fewer times during the night, with 22% reduction in wake after sleep onset. Morning alertness improves because Shoden promotes natural restorative sleep, not drug-induced sedation.

Unlike pharmaceutical sleep aids or even sedating supplements, Shoden addresses the root cause of poor sleep: dysregulated stress hormones. By normalizing cortisol rhythms, the extract allows your natural circadian patterns to function optimally. Sleep improvements often begin within the first week and reach full effectiveness by week 4-6.

Powerful Stress and Anxiety Relief

Shoden provides significant stress reduction at remarkably low doses. Clinical trials show meaningful improvements with just 60mg daily (half a capsule). At 120mg daily (one capsule), benefits increase substantially. Hamilton Anxiety Scale scores decrease significantly compared to placebo. Perceived stress drops markedly. Clinical Global Impressions ratings improve.

The mechanism involves direct cortisol modulation. Morning cortisol levels, often elevated in chronically stressed individuals, decrease by 20-35% within 60 days. This hormonal normalization translates to real-world improvements. Daily pressures feel manageable. Emotional reactivity decreases. Resilience to stressors improves. Anxiety and worry diminish.

Users report feeling calmer yet alert, relaxed yet energized. The adaptogenic effects create balance rather than sedation. You maintain mental sharpness and physical energy while experiencing reduced stress and anxiety. These benefits emerge within 1-2 weeks and strengthen through 8 weeks of consistent use.

Testosterone and Hormonal Optimization

Men experience significant testosterone increases from Shoden supplementation. Clinical trials show 22% increase at 60mg daily and 33% increase at 120mg daily over 60 days. Another study found 14.7% increase with lower withanolide glycoside doses. The testosterone boost occurs through normalized HPA axis function and increased luteinizing hormone.

This hormonal optimization provides multiple benefits:

• Enhanced libido and sexual function
• Improved energy and motivation
• Better mood and emotional stability
• Increased muscle mass and strength potential
• Enhanced vitality and overall well-being

Women experience hormonal balance without masculinization. The extract supports healthy estrogen patterns, progesterone balance, and overall endocrine function. Women report improved mood stability, better energy, reduced PMS symptoms, and enhanced vitality.

Cognitive Enhancement and Mental Clarity

Shoden sharpens cognitive function through multiple pathways. Reduced cortisol removes a primary inhibitor of memory and learning. Better sleep quality allows proper memory consolidation during rest. Withanolide glycosides provide neuroprotective effects, supporting long-term brain health. Enhanced mitochondrial function in brain cells improves neural energy availability.

Users experience:

• Improved focus and concentration
• Faster information processing
• Better working memory and recall
• Enhanced executive function for complex problem-solving
• Reduced brain fog and mental fatigue
• Sharper overall mental clarity

Cognitive improvements typically emerge after 2-4 weeks of consistent supplementation and continue strengthening through 8 weeks.

Natural Energy and Vitality

Unlike stimulants that force energy release followed by crashes, Shoden optimizes natural vitality. The extract enhances mitochondrial function and ATP production at the cellular level. Reduced cortisol prevents the energy-draining effects of chronic stress. Better sleep quality ensures you wake refreshed and energized.

Users report:

• Steady energy throughout the day
• No jitters or anxiety
• Improved physical and mental stamina
• Enhanced motivation and drive
• Consistent vitality without crashes
• Better stress-related fatigue resistance

Energy improvements become noticeable within 1-2 weeks as sleep quality improves and cortisol normalizes. Full energizing effects emerge by week 4-6.

Low-Dose Convenience

Shoden's exceptional bioavailability means therapeutic benefits at minimal doses. Where other ashwagandha extracts require 600-1000mg daily, Shoden achieves comparable effects at 60-120mg. This makes supplementation:

• More convenient (smaller capsules)
• More cost-effective (less product needed)
• Easier to stack with other supplements
• Suitable for those sensitive to higher doses
• Ideal for long-term daily use

The low-dose effectiveness stems from the superior absorption and extended circulation of withanolide glycosides. You get more benefit from less product.

Usage Guidelines

Standard Dosing

Take one 120mg capsule 1-2 times daily. Clinical research validates both approaches:

120mg once daily (one capsule): Effective for sleep quality, mild-moderate stress, general well-being, and maintenance support. Most users take their capsule in the evening 1-2 hours before bedtime for optimal sleep benefits.

240mg daily (two capsules): Provides maximum benefits for significant stress/anxiety, hormonal optimization, enhanced cognitive function, and comprehensive support. Take one capsule in the morning and one in the evening, or both capsules together in the evening.

Timing Recommendations:

For Sleep Quality: Take one capsule 1-2 hours before bedtime. The sleep-promoting effects will help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer without morning grogginess. Sleep improvements often appear within the first week.

For Stress and Anxiety: Take one capsule in the evening for general stress management. For acute or significant anxiety, take one capsule in the morning and one in the evening (total 240mg daily). Stress benefits emerge within 1-2 weeks.

For Testosterone Support (Men): Take 120mg daily, preferably in the evening. For maximum testosterone optimization, take 60mg in the morning and 60mg in the evening (split dosing). Hormonal changes become apparent after 4-8 weeks.

For Cognitive Function: Take one capsule in the morning or early afternoon. The cognitive benefits develop after 2-4 weeks of consistent daily use. Timing matters less than consistency.

For All-Day Benefits: Take one capsule in the evening. The long-lasting effects provide benefits through the following day, including improved stress resilience, better energy, and enhanced mental clarity.

Food Considerations

Shoden absorbs well with or without food. The water-soluble withanolide glycosides maintain high bioavailability regardless of meal timing. Some users prefer taking capsules with a light snack to prevent any minor stomach sensitivity, though this rarely occurs. Consistency matters more than precise food timing.

Duration of Use

Shoden is safe for long-term daily use. Clinical studies demonstrate safety and efficacy for up to 6 months of continuous supplementation. Many users take Shoden year-round for ongoing sleep support and stress management. As an adaptogen, it supports natural body functions without causing tolerance or dependence.

Building Your Stack

Shoden pairs synergistically with complementary supplements:

For Enhanced Sleep: Combine with Magnesium Glycinate (300-400mg before bed) for deeper sleep and muscle relaxation. L-Theanine (200mg) enhances calming effects without drowsiness.

For Stress Management: Stack with Sensoril Ashwagandha for comprehensive stress support, or combine with Rhodiola Rosea for adaptogenic synergy.

For Cognitive Performance: Add Lion's Mane mushroom (500-1000mg) for neurogenesis support or Alpha-GPC (300mg) for acetylcholine enhancement.

For Hormonal Support (Men): Combine with Tongkat Ali (200-400mg) for additional testosterone support or Cistanche (200mg) for vitality enhancement.

Space different supplements by 30-60 minutes for optimal absorption. Shoden's low dose makes it easy to incorporate into any supplement regimen.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep bottle tightly sealed when not in use to prevent humidity exposure. Avoid temperatures above 25°C (77°F). Keep out of reach of children. Use before expiration date printed on bottle for guaranteed potency. Properly stored Shoden maintains full potency for 24 months from manufacturing date.

Shoden vs KSM-66 vs Sensoril:

Shoden: Root and leaf extract with 35% withanolide glycosides. Superior bioavailability allowing low-dose effectiveness (60-120mg daily). Ideal for sleep quality, stress relief, hormonal balance. Best taken in the evening, though morning use also effective. Provides powerful benefits from minimal dosing.

KSM-66: Root-only extract with 5% withanolides. Energizing and performance-oriented. Requires higher doses (300-600mg daily). Ideal for daytime energy, athletic performance, testosterone support. Best taken in the morning or before workouts. Provides stimulating effects without jitters.

Sensoril: Root and leaf extract with 10% withanolides and 32% oligosaccharides. Calming and relaxing. Requires moderate doses (125-250mg daily). Ideal for evening relaxation, sleep support, gentle stress relief. Best taken 1-2 hours before bed. Provides smooth, sustained calming effects.

Your choice depends on primary goals:

• For sleep quality and stress relief: Shoden excels with superior bioavailability and proven sleep benefits
• For energy and athletic performance: KSM-66 provides stimulating, performance-enhancing effects
• For evening relaxation and anxiety: Sensoril offers smooth, calming support

Many users combine extracts strategically: KSM-66 in the morning for energy and performance, Shoden in the evening for sleep and recovery.

Safety Information & Warnings

Consult Healthcare Provider Before Use If:

You are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Ashwagandha may affect hormonal balance and has not been studied for safety during pregnancy. You are breastfeeding or nursing. Safety during lactation remains unestablished in clinical research. You have thyroid disorders (hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism). Ashwagandha may influence thyroid hormone production. You take thyroid medications (levothyroxine, liothyronine, etc.). Ashwagandha may enhance medication effects, requiring dose adjustments. Monitor thyroid levels closely. 

When to Discontinue Use:

Stop taking Shoden and consult your healthcare provider if you experience:

Persistent digestive discomfort beyond the first week of use. Excessive drowsiness or fatigue that interferes with daily functioning. Skin rash, hives, itching, or other allergic symptoms. Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice), which may indicate rare liver problems (seek immediate medical attention). Rapid or irregular heartbeat, chest discomfort, or breathing difficulties. Unusual mood changes, depression, or emotional instability. Any other concerning or unusual symptoms.

Dietary Supplement Classification

This product is classified as a dietary supplement, not a pharmaceutical drug. It is intended for wellness support and should not replace prescribed medications or professional medical treatment. Consult qualified healthcare providers regarding medical conditions or before beginning supplementation regimens, particularly for chronic conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long before I notice sleep improvements?

Many users experience better sleep within the first week. You may notice faster sleep onset, fewer nighttime awakenings, and feeling more refreshed upon waking within 3-7 days. Full sleep optimization typically occurs by week 4-6 of consistent daily use. Sleep improvements are often the first noticeable benefit with Shoden.

Should I take Shoden in the morning or evening?

Evening use works best for most people, particularly for sleep support. Take one capsule 1-2 hours before bedtime to promote restful sleep without morning grogginess. However, morning use is also effective for all-day stress resilience and cognitive support. The adaptogenic benefits provide sustained effects regardless of timing. Some users take one capsule in the morning and one in the evening for comprehensive 24-hour support.

Will Shoden make me drowsy during the day?

When taken in the evening at recommended doses, Shoden promotes restful sleep without next-day drowsiness. The extract supports natural sleep architecture rather than forcing sedation. Most users wake feeling refreshed and energized. If morning use causes any drowsiness (which is uncommon), switch to evening-only dosing.

How does the low dose work as well as higher-dose ashwagandha?

Shoden contains 35% withanolide glycosides, the most bioavailable form of ashwagandha compounds. Glycosides absorb better, circulate longer, and produce stronger effects than standard withanolides. A 2025 clinical study confirmed that withanolide glycosides provide superior systemic exposure compared to non-glycoside forms. This explains why 120mg Shoden achieves effects comparable to 600-1000mg of standard ashwagandha extracts.

Can I take Shoden with other supplements?

Yes. Shoden combines well with most supplements. For enhanced sleep, pair with Magnesium Glycinate or L-Theanine. For stress support, combine with B-complex vitamins or adaptogenic herbs. For testosterone support in men, stack with Tongkat Ali or Cistanche. Space different supplements by 30-60 minutes for optimal absorption. The low dose makes Shoden easy to incorporate into any supplement regimen.

Is Shoden safe for long-term daily use?

Yes. Clinical studies demonstrate safety for up to 6 months of continuous daily supplementation. Many users take Shoden year-round for ongoing sleep support and stress management. As an adaptogen supporting natural body functions, it does not cause tolerance, dependence, or require cycling. Long-term use maintains optimal sleep quality and stress resilience.

How does Shoden compare to prescription sleep medications?

Shoden promotes natural sleep through cortisol normalization and GABA/histamine receptor modulation. Unlike prescription sleep drugs that force sedation, Shoden supports your body's natural sleep mechanisms. Clinical trials show no morning grogginess, no dependence, and no withdrawal symptoms. However, Shoden is a supplement, not a medication. For severe insomnia or sleep disorders, consult a healthcare provider about appropriate medical treatment.

Can I take Shoden if I have anxiety?

Yes, many users with anxiety benefit from Shoden. Clinical trials show significant reductions in Hamilton Anxiety Scale scores after 60 days at 60-120mg daily. The extract reduces cortisol and supports calm neurotransmitter function. However, consult your healthcare provider before using supplements for anxiety, especially if you take anxiety medications. Shoden may enhance the effects of sedating anti-anxiety drugs.

Will Shoden help me build muscle or improve athletic performance?

Shoden supports testosterone increases in men (22-33% in clinical trials), which may benefit muscle growth indirectly. The stress-reducing and sleep-promoting effects also aid recovery and performance. However, for primary athletic performance benefits, KSM-66 ashwagandha is more suitable. KSM-66's root-only, energizing profile directly enhances strength, endurance, and muscle development. Many athletes use KSM-66 during the day for performance and Shoden at night for recovery.

Can women take Shoden?

Absolutely. Clinical research includes both men and women. While testosterone increases occur primarily in men, women experience significant benefits including improved sleep quality, reduced stress and anxiety, enhanced mood and emotional balance, better energy and vitality, and hormonal balance support. The testosterone increases studied in men do not cause masculinizing effects in women at recommended doses.

About Shoden®

Trusted Innovation from Arjuna Natural

Shoden® is manufactured by Arjuna Natural, a pioneer in standardized botanical extracts with over 35 years of experience. Based in Kerala, India, the company specializes in evidence-based, scientifically validated herbal ingredients for the global nutraceutical industry.

Research & Development:

Arjuna Natural invests heavily in research and innovation. The company developed advanced analytical methods in collaboration with ISO-accredited laboratories to accurately measure withanolide content. Standard USP methods test only 8-10 withanolides. Arjuna's HPLC/UPLC methods identify over 40 different withanolide types, providing complete compositional analysis.

This research led to the discovery that withanolide glycosides provide superior bioavailability compared to standard withanolides. Shoden was formulated specifically to maximize these highly bioavailable compounds, resulting in the industry's first 35% withanolide glycoside extract.