Ashwagandha

Also Known As: Indian Ginseng and Winter Cherry

Botanical Name: Withania Somnifera

Family Name: Solanaceae

Native To: India and North Africa

Parts To Use: Root, Fruit, and Leaves

How It’s Used: Extracts or powder are used to treat a variety of conditions as well as boost the immune system. Many of its health benefits are attributed to its high concentration of withanolides, which have been shown to fight inflammation.

Harvesting: Harvest the medicinal roots before the first frost, after the fruit have completely matured. Carefully dig each root and gently dust off the soil. Give them a quick wash and then dry them in a well- ventilated area with good air flow.

Ashwagandha has been used in Ayurvedic medicine as a natural treatment for a number of ailments for more than 3,000 years. Ashwagandha is Sanskrit for “smell of the horse”, which refers to both its unique smell and ability to increase strength. Often called "Indian ginseng" (even though it is not botanically related to true ginseng), ashwagandha is considered an adaptogen: a substance said to strengthen your resistance to stress while enhancing your energy.

This perennial plant is a small shrub with yellow flowers that grows up to 5 feet tall. Its leaves are oval shaped, simple, and covered in velvety hairs along the stems. The herb’s round berry is orange to red in color with kidney- shaped, yellow seeds. These plants thrive in dry soil, and they’re extremely drought tolerant. They require minimal care, making them ideal to grow in a garden.

The root and berry of the Ashwagandha plant are used to make medicine. It has become a popular supplement due to its health benefits, some of which include: lowered blood sugar levels, reduced anxiety and stress, increased fertility and testosterone in men, and boosted cardiovascular and immune health. Ashwagandha is available in capsules, powders, and tinctures, all of which can be found in many health-food stores specializing in natural remedies. It can also be found in adaptogen supplements that contain a variety of herbs like ginseng and rhodiola. People with autoimmune diseases should also avoid ashwagandha unless authorized by a healthcare provider. Additionally, those on medication for thyroid disease should be careful when taking ashwagandha, as it may increase thyroid hormone levels.