Ashwagandha 1:1 Extract - background
Withania somnifera, sometimes called winter cherry, is a shrub from the nightshade family native to India, parts of Africa and the Mediterranean region. The name ashwagandha comes from Sanskrit: "ashva" means horse and "gandha" means smell, a reference to the distinctive scent of the fresh root. In Ayurveda the plant has been used for centuries as a rasayana, a category of restorative herbs.
This Fit-UP product is a 1:1 extract: the root is processed into a tincture in which root material and solvent are present in equal proportion, resulting in a concentrated extract that is easy to dose drop by drop. The root's main compounds are withanolides, a group of steroidal compounds that is the focus of ongoing scientific research. Its effects in humans are not conclusively established: in March 2024 the Dutch RIVM advised caution with ashwagandha products, since conclusive research into its effects in humans is still lacking.
Dosage
A tincture is usually dosed drop by drop and mixed with some water or juice. Follow the dosing instructions on the label and, when trying a new herbal extract, start with a low amount and build up gradually.
Usage
Shake the bottle well before use, add the desired number of drops under the tongue or into a glass of water, and take it that way. If you use medication, or have a thyroid condition or liver problems, consult a doctor or pharmacist before using an herbal extract like this one.
Storage
Store the tincture in a dark, dry place with the cap closed tightly, out of reach of children. Check the expiration date on the packaging.
Part of the Fit-UP range of herbal extracts at Dutch-Smart. Also see the dried Ashwagandha Roots in the assortment for those who prefer to make their own tea or decoction.