Ashwagandha has been treasured for its ability to revitalise and rejuvenate for more than six thousand years; this Indian root strikes a delicate balance between strengthening and fortifying the body while bringing a calm, parasympathetic embodiment.
 
This potent herb is still a staple within the Ayurvedic system and by the general population as a tonic of India; it is considered one of the most important herbs in the tradition.
 
Ashwagandha is used in Ayurvedic medicine to promote healthy sleep patterns, support reproductive hormones and foster a healthy stress response in the body.
 
As a rasayana, ashwagandha is given to children (in milk) to support healthy development and the elderly as it helps to promote ease, calms the mind, and supports healthy ageing.
 
Ashwagandha's botanical name, Withania somnifera, provides a bit of a clue to its powers; the species name somnifera means 'sleep-inducing.'
 
The Hindi name ashwagandha is derived from the word ashva, referring to the horse sweat-like smell of the root!
 
This translates to granting the strength of a horse to those that use ashwagandha. 
 
Ashwagandha holds a similar place in the Ayurvedic pharmacopeia as ginseng does in the Traditional Chinese healing system, however, it has a softer energy. 
 
Traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to:
Support healthy emotional/mood balance
Support healthy sleeping patterns 
Support healthy stress response in the body
 
Not for use in pregnancy except under the supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner. In Ayurvedic medicine, ashwagandha is traditionally used to promote lactation (Kapoor, 1990), though it is best to check with your healthcare provider to ensure there are no contraindications in your unique case. It is not recommended to consume ashwagandha if you are hyperthyroid, unless under the supervision of a practitioner.