Herb Profiles

Ashwagandha

March 10, 2021

ASHWAGANDHA

Withania somnifera

Family: Solanaceae

Part used: Root

Energetics: Warming, sweet

Actions: Anti-inflammatory, aphrodisiac, nervine, immune amphoteric, reproductive tonic, sedative (mild)

Ashwagandha, native to India, grows on our farm in Maine as an annual. I harvest the roots every fall to make into tinctures and dry for teas, soup stocks and powder. Ashwagandha is a wonderful adaptogen that can be used as a daily tonic. It is part of the nightshade family, so if you have allergies you may want to avoid this herb. Otherwise, it’s a wonderfully rejuvenating and nourishing herb that I like to use as a brain tonic and to clear up brain fog and poor memory. It helps induce sleep, relieves anxiety and stress and is great for supporting the reproductive system. Ashwagandha is a great herb for rebuilding vitality and overall strength in the body.

Contraindications: Avoid use if allergic to nightshades or have hyperthyroidism or elevated iron levels.

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