Ashwagandha Root
Ashwagandha is a plant which has long been used medicinally. It is used in traditional Indian and African medicine as an anti-inflammatory, for fever relief, and against infectious disease. Many believe ashwagandha to be effective in stimulating the immune system. It also appears to inhibit swelling and aid memory and can act as a general health tonic. Ashwagandha contains flavonoids and many active ingredients of the withanolide class. Several studies over the past few years have indicated that ashwagandha has anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-stress, antioxidant, mind-boosting, and rejuvenating properties. Ashwagandha is commonly found in ayurvedic herbal formulas.
The active constituents in ashwagandha include withanolides which are believed by many experts to account for the many medicinal applications of ashwagandha. Withanolides are steroidal and are similar to the active constituents of Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) known as ginsenosides.
Ashwagandha as An Antioxidant
Researchers from Banaras Hindu University in Varanasi, India have asserted that some of the chemicals within ashwagandha are powerful antioxidants. They tested these compounds for their effects on rat brains and found an increase in the levels of three natural antioxidants-superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase. They say, These findings are consistent with the therapeutic use of W. somnifera [ashwagandha] as an Ayurvedic rasayana (health promoter). The antioxidant effect of active principles of W. somnifera may explain, at least in part, the reported anti-stress, cognition-facilitating, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging effects produced in experimental animal and in clinical situations.
A study done in 1991 at the Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center indicated that extracts of ashwagandha had GABA-like activity. This may account for this herb’s anti-anxiety effects.
Possible Benefits
While much research is still being conducted, some of the possible health benefits of our Ashwagandha Powder may include:
- May be effective in reducing stress and tension
- May be helpful in promoting overall well-being
- Studies have shown that it may enhance brain functioning
- Beneficial in rejuvenating the entire body
- May be useful in improving sexual vitality
- May help to combat the effects of stress
- Traditionally used as an effective mood enhancer
- May enhance physical endurance
- May be effective in reducing brain cell degeneration
- May be effective as an anti-depressant
- May help to boost the immune system
- May be beneficial for regulating blood sugar levels
- May help to reduce fatigue
- May be helpful in lowering bad cholesterol levels
- Studies have shown that it contains compounds that may have anti-inflammatory benefits
- May be helpful in supporting proper function of the adrenal glands
Suggested Usage
The recommended daily usage is 1-2 teaspoons. As with all superfood powders, listen to your body, as you may find that either a smaller or higher intake is more suitable to your body. We recommend that you start with the recommended daily amount, and, if desired, gradually increase or decrease your daily consumption.
This powder blends well with juice, rice or soy milk, and yogurt, or can be added to your favorite smoothie. It can also be mixed into your homemade energy bars. While you can add this powder to a variety of recipes, raw food enthusiasts avoid cooking or heating in order to preserve the food’s nutritional value.
Storage Instructions
If cared for properly, our Ashwagandha Powder has a shelf life of two to three years. To preserve the freshness of this product:
Avoid exposure to heat. The powder will remain fresh if stored at room temperature or below.
- Avoid exposure to direct sunlight.
- Squeeze all of the air out of the bag before sealing.
- Seal the bag tightly after each use.
- Store the powder in a dry place, and avoid all contact with moisture.
Packaging
We package all of our herbal and fruit powders in a heat sealed mylar bag which serves as a very effective barrier to light, oxygen, odors, flavors, moisture, and bacteria. The bag can be resealed with any household iron or curling iron.
Botanical Name
Withania Somnifera
Other Names
Winter Cherry, Indian Ginseng, Indian Winter Cherry
Country of Origin
India
