Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root is one of the most in-demand botanicals for supplement manufacturers, and it is where specification really matters. Buyers choose between whole root powder and standardised extract, and they care about withanolides, purity and whether the material is root-only. This guide covers how to specify it cleanly.
Root powder or extract?
Whole root powder is the milled root, suited to whole-herb capsules, tablets and traditional formulations. An extract is concentrated and typically standardised to a withanolides percentage, which suits brands that want consistent, defined dosing. The right choice depends on your product and label, so decide this first.
Withanolides: the standardisation marker
Withanolides are the naturally occurring compounds used as the marker for ashwagandha standardisation. Supplement manufacturers commonly specify a withanolides percentage on the purchase order, and because it varies by material and processing, the figure is confirmed on the COA for the lot rather than assumed.
Root-only and purity
Many premium buyers specify root-only material rather than root-and-leaf blends. If that is your requirement, state it explicitly. Beyond that, specify sieve mesh, moisture, ash and microbial limits appropriate to a supplement ingredient.
| Attribute | What to specify |
|---|---|
| Form | Root powder or standardised extract |
| Withanolides | Target percentage, confirmed on COA |
| Composition | Root-only if required |
| Mesh and limits | Mesh, moisture, ash, microbial to your standard |
Documentation and order
Every lot ships with a COA. For the import document set, see how to import herbal ingredients. Send your form, withanolides target, mesh, volume and destination and our export desk will confirm MOQ and price.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between ashwagandha root powder and extract?
Root powder is the milled whole root. An extract is concentrated and usually standardised to a withanolides percentage. Powder suits whole-herb formulations; extract suits standardised dosing. We supply both.
What are withanolides and why do buyers specify them?
Withanolides are naturally occurring compounds used as the standardisation marker for ashwagandha. Supplement manufacturers often specify a withanolides percentage, which is confirmed on the COA for the lot.
Should I buy root-only powder?
Many buyers specify root-only material (rather than root and leaf blends) for premium supplement lines. State root-only on your specification if that is your requirement.
What is the MOQ for bulk ashwagandha?
MOQ depends on form, grade and destination. Share your form, withanolides target, mesh, volume and country for a quote.
Specifications vary by crop, season and grade. For current lot specifications, sennosides or lawsone levels, MOQ and pricing to your destination, ask our export desk for a live COA.