Herb library

Ashwagandha

Withania somnifera

Ashwagandha, Withania somnifera, is a warming root long used in household herbal practice to support steadying the nervous system and to nourish when someone feels run down. It is prepared as teas, glycerin or honey syrups, and milky infusions in family use.

Traditionally used for.

• •Traditionally used as a gentle, warming tonic for nervous exhaustion and to support restful sleep.
• •Traditionally used as a restorative after long illness or during periods of prolonged fatigue, given in small regular doses.
• •A long-standing household remedy for calming mild tension and supporting a calm, steady mood in adults.

Simple preparations.

• •Milky infusion: simmer 1 teaspoon dried ashwagandha root in 1 cup milk or plant milk with a slice of fresh ginger and a pinch of cinnamon for 10 to 15 minutes, strain, sweeten with honey if liked. Take 1/4 to 1/2 cup in the evening, not for children under one year if sweetened with honey.
• •Glycerin or honey syrup: simmer 2 tablespoons dried root in 2 cups water until reduced by about one third, strain and mix with an equal part edible glycerin or honey to make a sweet syrup. Take 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon once or twice daily.
• •Powdered tea: steep 1/2 to 1 teaspoon ashwagandha powder or coarsely chopped root in 1 cup boiling water for 10 minutes, strain and drink warm, once or twice daily.

Cautions.

• !Can cause mild stomach upset or loose stools in some people, start with a small dose to test tolerance.
• !May lower blood pressure or add to the effects of sedative herbs; use caution if you have low blood pressure or take other calming medicines.
• !Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding without advice from your doctor, check with your doctor about safety if you are pregnant or nursing.
• !If you take prescription medications, especially for blood pressure, thyroid function, or sedatives, check with your doctor before using ashwagandha.

Often kept beside.