June 30, 2025

#171: The Shoden Revolution: How Arjuna Naturals Made Ashwagandha 10X More Effective

1 hour 15 minutes

In this major episode of the PricePlow Podcast, Mike and Ben visit Arjuna Natural’s Dallas headquarters for an in-depth exploration of botanical innovation and scientific excellence. Joined by Nipen Lavingia (VP of Brand Innovation), Bennito Russo (Head of Sales), and Keely Johnson (VP of Sales & Marketing), this conversation reveals why Arjuna Natural has become a leader in standardized botanical extracts, particularly with their groundbreaking Shoden ashwagandha and industry-standard BCM-95 turmeric.

Shoden: The Experiential Ashwagandha with Withanolide Glycosides

The discussion spans from the fundamental challenges of botanical standardization to the cutting-edge science behind withanolide glycosides and enhanced bioavailability. With over 95 clinical studies on BCM-95 and multiple international trials on Shoden, Arjuna Natural demonstrates how rigorous science and innovative extraction methods can transform traditional botanicals into precise, effective ingredients.

At the end, the team also previews exciting future developments, including women’s health research and their upcoming OkraVive ingredient for mitochondrial support.

https://blog.priceplow.com/podcast/arjuna-naturals-shoden-ashwagandha-171

Video: Inside Arjuna Natural’s Botanical Innovation

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QIXZjS0RC1A

Detailed Show Notes: The Science Behind Standardized Botanicals

(0:00) – Introduction: Welcome to Arjuna Natural

(1:45) – The Evolution of Botanical Extracts

(4:00) – Ashwagandha Market Evolution and Consumer Education

(8:15) – Introducing Shoden: The Science Behind the Name

(12:00) – Glycosides vs. Aglycones: The Bioavailability Revolution

(17:15) – Pharmacokinetic Studies: Head-to-Head Comparisons

(21:30) – International Clinical Research Strategy

(27:45) – Women’s Health Focus and Hormonal Research

(33:15) – Dosage Evolution: From High to Low

(38:00) – Safety Profile and Addressing Liver Toxicity Concerns

(43:30) – Introducing Shoden-R: Root-Only Innovation

(47:45) – BCM-95: The Gold Standard in Turmeric

(52:00) – Generic vs. Branded Botanicals: Quality Considerations

(56:15) – Future Innovation: OkraVive and Mitochondrial Health

(1:00:30) – Applications and Market Opportunities

(1:04:00) – Trade Shows and Industry Engagement

Where to Follow Arjuna Natural

Nipen Lavingia: LinkedIn

Bennito Russo: LinkedIn

Keely Johnson: LinkedIn

Arjuna Natural: Website, LinkedIn, and @arjuna_natural on Instagram

Follow Arjuna Natural on PricePlow: PricePlow.com/arjuna-natural

Key articles:

Ashwagandha Evolution: Shoden and the Rise of Glycoside-Enhanced Extracts

…