Sabinsa’s Shagandha Earns Alkemist Assured Seal

Sabinsa announced that its Shagandha ashwagandha root extract has earned the Alkemist Assured seal from Alkemist Labs.

The ingredient, derived from the dried roots of Withania somnifera, is standardized to a minimum of 2.5% withanolides and 0.25% withaferin A, and is analyzed using the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) method via high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The extract is 100% free from aerial plant parts.

According to the company, meeting the USP-NF monograph standard ensures transparency in standardization, and while it does not argue that ashwagandha leaves are unsafe, they can be included in ingredients via undisclosed adulteration. Adding lower-cost leaf or aerial plant material to products labeled as root-only ingredients cannot be detected through withanolide-based testing alone.

Alkemist Labs conducted two independent tests on the ingredient: an HPTLC identity test confirming consistency with ashwagandha root, and an HPLC quantitative test validating its 2.5% withanolide specification. Each test used USP methods.

“Sabinsa’s participation in the Alkemist Assured program with Shagandha reflects exactly why this program exists: to help quality-focused brands demonstrate, not merely claim, their commitment to verified ingredients. At a time when ashwagandha quality is receiving well-deserved scrutiny, rigorous third-party testing and transparency are what allow responsible suppliers to stand apart. We’re proud to support Sabinsa in bringing that standard forward,” said Elan Sudberg, CEO of Alkemist Labs.