Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Ayurveda’s most popular adaptogen is one of the most popular Ayurvedic herbs in the Western world too. Used in Ayurveda for thousands of years as a rasayana (rejuvenative), it helps the body resist physiological and psychological stress by adapting to the needs of the body.
Health Benefits of Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is used to tone, support, and revitalize bodily functions. It has been revered over time for its dual capacity to energize and calm at the same time. Stress can cause fatigue, often manifesting as “hyper” signs like agitation and difficulty sleeping. By providing a nourishing, yet energizing effect, ashwagandha can support a healthy nervous system. With the use of ashwagandha, stress doesn’t impact the nervous system with such intensity, and the “hyper” signs of stress and agitation will naturally resolve over time.
The following are a few advantages of this herb:
- Supports a healthy immune system
- Calms mental processes
- Fosters healthy sleep patterns
- Benefits a healthy reproductive system in both males and females
- Supports sustained energy levels, strength, and vitality, including with physical activity
- Supports a healthy back and joints
- Promotes thyroid health
- Promotes healthy functioning of the adrenals
Scientific study of Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha has become of interest to a number of researchers, particularly as it grows in popularity. It has been the subject of studies looking at the benefit on the immune system, including possible support of the immune system during radiation and chemotherapy.
Ashwagandha is used in combination with licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), safed musli (Chlorophytum borivillanum), and sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum), ashwagandha has been shown to support healthy cholesterol levels and antioxidant properties.
Ashwagandha in Ayurveda
Ashwagandha is used in Ayurveda to balance vata and kapha1 in excess, and because of its heating, unctuous, building nature, it can imbalance pitta, and also worsen ama (toxic build-up).5 Ayurveda recognizes ashwagandha particularly for its building, strengthening, and nourishing nature. It is used for the same reasons as listed in the benefits section above, particularly to support healthy muscles and reproductive systems and to balance vata.
How to Use Ashwagandha
- Traditionally used as a powder, ashwagandha can be mixed with water or warm milk and honey. Taken before bed, this mixture calms vata and fosters healthy sleep patterns, supports the reproductive system, and bolsters strength. A general serving is ¼–½ teaspoon once or twice daily.
- Ashwagandha is traditionally taken with ghee and honey (equal parts), as an anupan (a medium for carrying herbs deeper into the tissues) for overall nourishment and rejuvenation. While combining equal measurements such as ½ a teaspoon each is fine, be sure you are not putting in equal weights of honey and ghee (such as 1 gram each) as this is considered toxic.
- Taking ashwagandha with sugar (cane or sugar candy) adds a cooling effect and can even be substituted for the honey, particularly in the summer months. It can also be used with ghee and sugar as a supplement to support the female reproductive system and joints. The Ayurveda’s Carrier Substances guide is a great resource for determining which anupan is most appropriate to use.
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