Shoden by Arjuna Natural approved by Health Canada as a Natural Health Product

Image | adobe.stock/Andrii Fanta

In a March 25, 2025, press release, Arjuna Natural announced that its ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract, Shoden, has been approved by Health Canada as a Natural Health Product (NHP), confirming the botanical extract’s safety and efficacy. The botanical is known for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, and in traditional Ayurvedic medicine is considered to be a rejuvenating herb. Shoden is standardized to contain more than 35% withanolide glycosides.

“Our potent ashwagandha extract of the whole plant is derived from carefully chosen and validated sources using a proprietary extraction process,” stated Benny Antony, PhD, joint managing director for Arjuna Natural, in the press release.“This ensures exceptional absorption and maximum utilization of the full spectrum of withanolide compounds, even at an unusually low dose of 60-120mg. Shoden holds a string of 23 patents for its unique formulation and manufacturing methods.”

As explained in the press release, to obtain certification, NHPs must first complete testing for purity and potency, along with a review of clinical studies and scientific research. Shoden has been tested in 11 clinical studies and four animal studies. The studies connect Shoden with hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis regulation, demonstrate its benefits for immune cell markers, and establish its bioavailability and safety.

With this new certification, manufacturers can add label recommendations for Shoden’s health claims. Some of the claims include:

• When used over time, Shoden helps improve sleep onset, duration, and quality
• Shoden helps increase resistance to stress, helps reduce symptoms of stress, and helps reduce cortisol
• In males, Shoden helps promote healthy testosterone production

“Troublingly, there are numerous unregulated ashwagandha extracts on the market that are failing to deliver what they promise,” added Antony. “This recognition by Health Canada confirms Shoden as a reliable, scientifically backed source of the extract that delivers the distinct wellness benefits of ashwagandha. It underscores Arjuna Natural’s commitment to supplying regulatory compliant, high-quality ingredients that consumers in Canada and internationally can trust.”

Shoden comes in three doses and formats of pills, capsules, and powders. It can be added to soft drinks, energy shots, and other sports nutritional products.

“We are excited to bring Shoden to the Canadian nutraceutical space and look forward to collaborating with researchers and product developers, not only in Canada but internationally, helping them to create innovative solutions for stress management and overall well-being,” Antony also stated. “The US, and countries in Europe and Asia view Health Canada approval as a highly reliable benchmark for quality, which will fast-track Shoden’s expansion into those markets.”