Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha, in Latin Withania somnifera, is a bush growing to a height of two meters. It occurs mainly in India, where it has been a part of traditional Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. Because of its vitalizing and aphrodisiac effects, it is also nicknamed as Indian Ginseng. The very name Ashwagandha comes from Sanskrit, where Ashwa means horse and Gandha means strength, meaning “horsepower”, which, given its miraculous effects, is very appropriate.

HISTORY

Ashwagandha has been used in Ayurveda, India for over 5,000 years. It served as a cure for fevers, nausea or headaches. Because of its aphrodisiac properties, it was part of the drinks that were used during Tantric ceremonies in Mesopotamia. Today, in India, because of its optimizing effects on the whole organism, it is part of the daily life of the local population and serves as a means to support the organism’s vitality and defenses. In Europe, Ashwagandha appeared around the 17th century and became popular as an adaptogen and stimulant, and is often used by students and managers.

India, a place where the Ashwagandha has used daily for centuries

CHEMISTRY

Ashwagandha contains a broad spectrum of active substances beneficial for the human body – high amounts of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. 

These substances support the body’s defenses and slow down the aging processes. It is also rich in amino acids that optimize body functions – nourish our organs and promote bone and muscle growth.

Some of the alkaloids include somniferine, tropine, pseudotropine and withanine. These substances calm the nervous system, relieve excessive stress and improve mood. There is also present withaferine, which is involved in anti-inflammatory effects.

 

EFFECTS

Ashwagandha has a complex effect on the whole organism.

Vitamins, minerals and antioxidants in Ashwagandha support immunity, prolong age and help regenerate the body after a hard workout. They also promote detoxification and vitality. Ashwagandha also serves as an effective tonic and is widely used by students for its nootropic properties – it stimulates the nervous system, improves attention, concentration and memory. However, this mental stimulation is different from conventional caffeine products (which stimulate predominantly physically) and so Ashwagandha is also used as a remedy for insomnia. It pleasantly relaxes the body, improves mood and helps fight stress and anxiety. It can therefore also be used as an antidepressant.

It is well known that Ashwagandha also acts as an effective aphrodisiac. It increases potency, prolongs erection in men and women restores hormonal balance and increases appetite for sex. Its adaptogenic properties are very popular – it supports the optimization of the organism in demanding physical conditions or excessive mental strain and thus serves as prevention against disease and excessive exhaustion. Ashwagandha also lowers blood pressure, thanks to the presence of iron, optimizes the number of red blood cells, clears blood and has anti-inflammatory effects.

 

PREPARATION AND DOSAGE

Powder from the root

 

The powder from the root is dosed in an amount of about 1-2 grams, 2-3 per day. Pour this amount into 250 ml of hot liquid - we recommend milk or water. Stir until the powder is dissolved. Can be flavoured with sugar or honey.

Combination with other superfoods such as Peruvian Maca or Ginseng is suitable.