Feeling flat? Tired? Unmotivated? Lacking spark and enthusiasm? Consider trying Ashwagandha, a tried and tested Ayurvedic root with powerful adaptogenic properties.

What is Ashwagandha?
Also known as Withania and Indian Ginseng, Ashwagandha (pronounced ash-wah-gand-a) is an ancient ayurvedic herb, highly revered for its unique ability to help the body adapt to both physical and emotional stressors, hence the term ‘ADAPTogen’.

Historically, it has been used for over 3000 years in parts of Asian and Africa to help those suffering malnutrition, respiratory and digestive complaints and to promote longevity and overall wellbeing.

More recently, ashwagandha has become a popular herb for nourishing a depleted nervous system, balancing endocrine function, increasing libido and fertility, as well as promoting deeper and more restful sleep.

What are some of the many benefits of taking ashwagandha?

Regularly taking ashwagandha may help to:
Increase energy and improve athletic performance: Its naturally occurring amino acids may assist to improve muscle growth and recovery time.
Reduce stress and anxiety: It may help lower stress levels by working on the hypothalamus, which controls our sympathetic nervous system or our flight or fight response.

Balance both male and female sex hormones: It may work on the hypothalamus, which supports the production and quality of hormones. It is also known as a potent anti-inflammatory which may also work to lower inflammation in the body.
Promote a better night’s sleep: Its ability to nourish the nervous system may help influence the quality and length of sleep.
Improve memory and cognition: It may assist to enhance focus and memory by reducing brain fatigue.
Boost skin, nail and hair health: Its potent antioxidant benefits may help reduce oxidative stress thus improving hair, skin and nail health.

How much should I take each day?

The recommended daily dose of ashwagandha powder is between 250mg to 2grams taken in powder or capsule form. This depends greatly on whether you are male or female, your weight and size and the reason you are taking it. You can refer to individual package instructions for recommended dosage for each unique product.

Try taking your ashwagandha creatively in any of the following ways:
For fast absorption you can mix into your favourite hot or cold drink. It works well in hot chocolate, coffee, smoothies, juices or just straight up with water.
Add to your baked goods or desserts. Makes a delicious  Coconut Chocolate Bark. Find the delicious recipe on our recipe page.
Mix into your soups, casseroles, stews and curries. Ashwagandha is not heat sensitive so can be added at any stage of the cooking process.

For more information on adaptogens, check out the following article from go natural foods:
https://www.gonaturalfoods.com.au/what-are-adaptogens/