Ashwagandha

What is ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha is an ancient medicinal plant that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine since antiquity. It originates from India and the Middle East and is known by many names, including Withania somnifera, winter cherry, Indian ginseng and Ayurvedic ginseng.

It has been used for centuries as a tonic for general health and wellbeing. Its benefits are increasingly recognised in modern Western medicine.

You can buy ashwagandha in our shop, both as a powder and in capsule form.

Ashwagandha in the wild

Ashwagandha is a hardy shrub native to India, the Middle East and parts of Africa. It grows in dry, sandy soils and is commonly found in the wild. The plant belongs to the Withania somnifera family and has yellow flowers and reddish-orange fruits. The leaves, root and fruits of the plant are used for medicinal purposes.

The history of ashwagandha

The history of ashwagandha stretches far back into antiquity. This powerful Ayurvedic herb has been used for centuries in India and the Middle East to treat a wide range of ailments. In Sanskrit, Ashwagandha means ‘the smell of a horse’, a reference to the plant’s distinctive earthy aroma. Ancient texts describe how it was given to warriors to increase their strength and virility. In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, it has been used for centuries as an adaptogen to support the body’s natural processes and improve its response to physical and mental stress.

Daily dosage

The recommended daily dose of ashwagandha depends on the individual and the desired effect. Generally, most people take between 1,000 and 3,000 milligrams (mg) per day. The recommended daily dose is always stated on the product packaging and should not be exceeded.

When taking ashwagandha, it is important to consider the form you are taking. The extract is more potent than the powdered root, so you may need to take a smaller amount of the extract.

We stock both ashwagandha capsules and powder.

Possible side effects

There are some side effects that may occur when taking this herb. These include upset stomach, diarrhoea and nausea. Some people may also experience skin irritation or allergic reactions.

It is important to note that ashwagandha should not be taken by pregnant or breastfeeding women, as it may affect foetal development. It is also not recommended for use by children, as there is insufficient research to determine whether it is safe for them.

If you are taking other medicines, you should definitely discuss this with your doctor. This is particularly important if you are taking medicines for high blood pressure, diabetes or heart disease, as ashwagandha may interact with these medicines.