What Is Ashwagandha Root?
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a small evergreen shrub of the nightshade family, native to India, the Middle East and parts of Africa. It is also known as Indian ginseng and winter cherry, after the small orange-red berries it carries inside papery husks. In herbal trade the dried root is called Withania somnifera radix.
The name ashwagandha comes from Sanskrit and means smell of the horse, a reference to the root’s distinctive, earthy aroma. The roots are pale tan, fibrous and slightly bitter in taste.
Ashwagandha is one of the best-known plants of Ayurveda, the traditional system of Indian herbal practice, where it has been used for more than three thousand years. It is traditionally simmered in milk with honey or ghee, or prepared as a root tea.
Today ashwagandha root is used by people who follow Ayurvedic traditions, by herbalists and by home cooks who prepare their own warm milk drinks and powders. The whole dried root gives you a less processed alternative to capsules: you can simmer it, grind it yourself or blend it with spices such as cinnamon, cardamom and ginger.
Our ashwagandha root contains only dried Withania somnifera root with nothing added. It is sold by weight, from small packs to bulk.
How to Use Ashwagandha Root
- Root tea: Simmer 1 to 2 teaspoons (about 3 to 5 g) of root in 1 1/2 cups (12 fl oz / 350 ml) of water for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain and sweeten with honey if you like.
- Ashwagandha milk: Simmer the same amount of root in a cup of milk or plant milk with a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for 10 minutes, then strain.
- Homemade powder: Grind the dried root in a strong spice grinder and store the powder in an airtight jar.
Safety
Do not use during pregnancy or while nursing. Avoid if you have a thyroid or autoimmune condition, liver problems, are allergic to nightshade plants, or are scheduled for surgery. Ashwagandha may interact with some medications, including sedatives and thyroid, blood sugar or blood pressure medication. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before use. Keep out of reach of children.
Read our full guide: How to prepare ashwagandha root: our step-by-step guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Withania somnifera radix mean?
It is the Latin herbal name for ashwagandha root. Radix means root.
Is this whole root or powder?
This is the dried root. You can simmer it as is or grind it into powder at home.
What does ashwagandha root taste like?
It is earthy and slightly bitter, with a strong, distinctive aroma. Milk, honey and warm spices balance the taste.
Why is ashwagandha called Indian ginseng?
The name is a traditional comparison to ginseng. Botanically, the two plants are not related.
How should I store ashwagandha root?
Keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dry and dark place.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.