Withania somnifera - Ashwagandha Roots
Ashwagandha is a plant native to India, better known in herbal medicine as Withania somnifera. The most important part of the plant is the root, which has been used in Indian Ayurvedic tradition for centuries, among other things as a rasayana and as one of the herbs within the aphrodisiac tradition. The root contains withanolides, a group of steroidal plant compounds that is the subject of ongoing scientific research. In March 2024 the Dutch RIVM advised caution with ashwagandha products, since conclusive research into its effects in humans is lacking; these roots are therefore sold as an herbal product, not as a medicine.
In the Ayurvedic classification of herbs, ashwagandha falls under the rasayanas, a category traditionally associated with vitality and recovery after exertion. The root is usually harvested after the plant has grown for several months, then dried and either cut small or ground into a powder, so the active compounds are released well during steeping or boiling.
Dosage
For a decoction, a small amount of dried root (a few grams) per cup of water is usually used. When trying it for the first time, start with a low amount and pay attention to how your body responds.
Usage
Bring water to the boil, add the dried root and let it simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain out the solid material before drinking the decoction. The root can also be ground into a powder to add to a smoothie.
Storage
Store the dried root in a dark, dry, airtight place, out of reach of children.
Also see the liquid Ashwaganda 1:1 extract by Fit-UP in the assortment for those who prefer a ready-made tincture.
