Ashwagandha Root

Ashwagandha Root

Latin name: Withania somnifera

Health Benefits of Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha often referred to as the "Indian Ginseng" as it is often used in the same manner as Ginseng.  is a great all around body builder that has been used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic medicinal practices.  Used mainly as a calming herb, Ashwagandha not only has a wonderfully interesting name, but more health benefits include: 

• Great relief for stress and anxiety. It helps to calm nerves and has a great soothing effect on the body.  It increases the body's overall ability to adapt to and resist stress.    
• Works wonderfully to help clarity of the mind and memory.  This helps facilitate learning. 
• Energizing and soothing.
• Has anti-inflammatory properties that help in the treatment of arthritis and rheumatism. 
• Because of its stress relieving properties, it can be a good treatment for hypertension. 
• Is good for sexual health as it is a known aphrodisiac.  
• Classic reproductive tonic.
• Enhances stamina, which makes this herb popular with athletes.
• Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, it is sometimes a good treatment for urinary tract infections. 
• Can be used to help stimulate memory in those suffering from different forms of dementia. 
• Is currently being tested as an anti-cancer drug because of its effectiveness in test animals to kill tumors cell by cell. 

How to Use Ashwagandha

• Can be used in tinctures, teas, or in encapsulated form.
• Mix with other more flavorful herbs such as Sarsaparilla Root, Ginger Root Powder, and Cinnamon Powder to make a suitable tea.
• Mix with milk for a classic Indian rejuvenating drink.
• Try blending it with Chai tea. 

Cautions and Side Effects of Ashwagandha

• People who suffer from thyroid or liver ailments should not take this herb.
• Do not use if pregnant or if you are nursing.
• Do not use with other sedatives.