Ashwagandha

Botanical Extracts & Additives
Written By Tori Thomas

Ashwagandha Extract – Withania somnifera

Why we love it at The Mindful Gem

Ashwagandha is a rejuvenating adaptogenic herb that helps the skin adapt to stress, restore balance, and maintain vitality. Rich in withanolides and alkaloids, it supports the body’s natural resilience while providing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and protective effects for the skin. Studies show that topical and oral applications of ashwagandha can reduce oxidative stress, enhance collagen production, and promote skin renewal (Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 2021, DOI: 10.1016/j.jaim.2021.100429).
At The Mindful Gem, we use ashwagandha extract in select formulas to fortify the skin’s barrier, support elasticity, and calm stress-related irritation — bringing grounding energy and radiant balance to your ritual.

Plant Overview

A small shrub native to India, North Africa, and the Middle East, ashwagandha has been used for over 3,000 years in Ayurvedic medicine as a rasayana — a rejuvenator that promotes longevity and strength.
Its roots and leaves are the primary sources of bioactive compounds.

Parts Used & Traditional Uses:

The roots are dried and extracted for their adaptogenic and restorative properties.
Traditionally used in Ayurveda to restore energy, balance hormones, and strengthen the body’s response to stress — both physically and emotionally.

Skin Benefits & Mechanism:

  • Withanolides provide potent antioxidant protection, defending against environmental stress.

  • Promotes collagen synthesis and helps maintain firmness and elasticity.

  • Calms inflammation and reduces visible signs of fatigue or stress on the skin.

  • Enhances skin tone and resilience through improved microcirculation and renewal.

Key Benefits:

  • Antioxidant + anti-stress adaptogen

  • Supports collagen + elasticity

  • Reduces inflammation + redness

  • Balances stressed or fatigued skin

Sources:

  • Durg, S. et al. (2021). “Withania somnifera: A botanical adaptogen with dermatological applications.” Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine. DOI: 10.1016/j.jaim.2021.100429

  • Panda, S. et al. (2010). “Role of Withania somnifera in anti-aging and antioxidant activity.” Phytomedicine.

  • Singh, N. et al. (2011). “Biological properties of Withania somnifera: An overview.” Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences.

© The Mindful Gem. All product formulations, recipes, and proprietary blends are the intellectual property of The Mindful Gem and Cosmictoria Natural Wellness. Reproduction, duplication, or use of these formulas for commercial purposes is strictly prohibited and may result in legal action.
Tori Thomas
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