Ashwagandha “extract” is a concentrated form made from the plant. Its advantage is potential standardization of key compounds (especially withanolides), offering more predictable content in capsules/tablets. Quality still varies by standardization level, raw material source, manufacturing method, and testing. Powder is closer to the raw plant; standardized extract offers more controlled dosing. What matters is what the label states and whether it is supported by testing. For stress/sleep goals, standardized extracts can be more consistent, but personal tolerance and safety profile still matter.