Does Mudwtr Have Ashwagandha? A Guide to the Different Blends

December 3, 2025 •

3 min read

MUD\WTR has gained significant attention in the wellness community as an alternative to coffee, with its products often containing adaptogenic mushrooms and herbs. However, a common point of confusion is whether the brand's popular blends include ashwagandha, a well-known adaptogen. While the original :rise blend does not contain this herb, a different formulation, :rest, specifically includes ashwagandha to promote relaxation.

Quick Summary

MUD\WTR's evening Rest blend contains ashwagandha for relaxation, while the flagship Original and :rise blends do not, focusing instead on other adaptogenic mushrooms and chai for sustained energy.

Key Points

Rest Blend Contains Ashwagandha: MUD\WTR's caffeine-free :rest blend is the only product that includes ashwagandha, specifically for relaxation and stress relief.
Original/Rise Blends Do Not: The standard Original and :rise blends do not have ashwagandha, using other mushrooms and chai spices for energy and focus.
Check the Label: Always check the product label to confirm ingredients, as MUD\WTR offers different formulations for different wellness goals.
Different Goals: Choose the :rest blend for its calming, cortisol-reducing effects, and the Original blend for sustained, jitter-free energy.
Safety First: Consult a healthcare provider before taking ashwagandha, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing an autoimmune or thyroid condition.
Ingredient Sourcing: MUD\WTR's functional mushrooms are U.S.-grown and undergo third-party testing for safety and potency.
Avoid Medication Interactions: Ashwagandha and other adaptogens can interact with certain medications, including sedatives and immunosuppressants, so professional advice is crucial.

Does MUD\WTR Original or :rise Contain Ashwagandha?

No, the flagship MUD\WTR Original and :rise blends do not contain ashwagandha. These popular blends are designed to provide a gentle, sustained lift in energy and focus, using a different combination of adaptogenic mushrooms and spices. The primary functional ingredients in these daytime blends are a combination of Lion's Mane, Chaga, Reishi, and Cordyceps mushrooms, along with cacao, chai spices, and turmeric. Ashwagandha is notably absent from the ingredient list for these specific products.

Ashwagandha in MUD\WTR's Rest Blend

In contrast to its energizing blends, MUD\WTR offers a specific caffeine-free product called :rest, which is formulated for relaxation and winding down in the evening. This is the product that does contain ashwagandha. The inclusion of this potent adaptogen aligns with its traditional use in Ayurvedic medicine for stress reduction and improving sleep quality. The :rest blend combines ashwagandha with other calming herbs and mushrooms to help the body de-stress and prepare for sleep.

The Importance of Reading the Label

This distinction highlights the importance of carefully reading the ingredient list for any MUD\WTR product you purchase. The company clearly labels its blends based on their intended use, and the ingredients reflect those purposes. Assuming all MUD\WTR products are the same can lead to confusion or using the wrong product for your needs.

Understanding the Differences: Original vs. Rest

To help clarify the differences, here is a comparison table outlining the key ingredients and intended effects of the two primary MUD\WTR blends:


Feature	MUD\WTR Original / :rise	MUD\WTR :rest
Primary Adaptogens	Lion's Mane, Chaga, Reishi, Cordyceps	Ashwagandha, Reishi, Turkey Tail
Key Flavorings	Cacao, Masala Chai Spices	Rooibos Chai, Chamomile, Cinnamon
Caffeine Content	Approximately 35mg (from black tea)	Caffeine-free
Intended Effect	Sustained energy, focus, and immunity support	Relaxation, stress support, and improved sleep
Best Time to Drink	Morning or throughout the day	Evening

Benefits of Ashwagandha vs. MUD\WTR's Standard Blend Ingredients

For those seeking the specific benefits of ashwagandha, like stress and anxiety reduction, sleep improvement, and hormonal balance, the :rest blend is the right choice. For example, studies suggest ashwagandha can lower cortisol levels, a key stress hormone. However, if your goal is sustained mental clarity and energy without the jitters of coffee, the Original blend's combination of Lion's Mane and Cordyceps is what delivers that effect. The various mushroom and herbal blends are tailored to different wellness goals.

Other MUD\WTR Ingredients

In addition to the main functional ingredients, MUD\WTR often includes a range of other components to enhance flavor and effect. Some of these include:

Cacao: For its rich flavor and mood-boosting properties.
Masala Chai Spices: Cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, cardamom, black pepper, nutmeg, and cloves are used for taste and antioxidant benefits.
Himalayan Pink Salt: For electrolytes and flavor balance.
Rooibos Tea: A caffeine-free base in the :rest blend.
Chamomile: A traditional herb known for its calming properties, included in the :rest blend.
Valerian Root: Another natural sedative found in the :rest blend.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether MUD\WTR contains ashwagandha depends entirely on the specific product blend. The energizing Original and :rise blends, intended as coffee alternatives for focus and energy, do not include ashwagandha. However, the relaxing :rest blend, specifically formulated for evening use, does list ashwagandha as a key ingredient for its calming properties. Always check the label to ensure you are purchasing the correct product for your desired health benefits. For more information on ashwagandha, visit the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health at NCCIH.NIH.gov.

Potential Health and Safety Considerations

While ashwagandha is generally considered safe for short-term use, it's not appropriate for everyone. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with autoimmune diseases, or those on certain medications should consult a healthcare professional before use. High doses of ashwagandha can cause side effects such as stomach upset, diarrhea, and nausea. Furthermore, some adaptogenic herbs and functional mushrooms can interact with medications. It is important to discuss any new supplement with a medical professional, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.

The MUD\WTR Commitment to Quality

MUD\WTR prides itself on using high-quality ingredients, with its functional mushrooms grown in the U.S. and undergoing third-party lab testing and DNA verification to ensure safety and potency. The company's transparency about its ingredient sourcing and testing provides a level of reassurance for consumers seeking reliable wellness products.

Frequently Asked Questions

The MUD\WTR :rest blend, designed for evening use, contains ashwagandha along with other relaxing ingredients like chamomile and valerian root.

No, the original MUD\WTR blend (also called :rise) does not contain ashwagandha. It is formulated with other adaptogenic mushrooms like Lion's Mane and Cordyceps for energy and focus.

The main difference is the ingredients and intended effect. The Original blend provides sustained energy, while :rest promotes relaxation and includes ashwagandha, rooibos tea, and chamomile.

Ashwagandha is known for its adaptogenic properties that help the body manage stress, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality. It is included in the :rest blend for its calming effects.

While generally safe for many, individuals with pre-existing conditions or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional before regular consumption. High doses can cause side effects.

Certain ingredients in MUD\WTR, including ashwagandha in the :rest blend, can interact with medications like sedatives or immunosuppressants. It is crucial to speak with a doctor before use.

MUD\WTR sources its functional mushrooms from the U.S. and subjects them to third-party testing for contaminants. Other ingredients are sourced from around the world.