Between our modern-day problems and busy, hectic lifestyles, traditional and old-school remedies can often be the cure we are looking for. Ayurvedic remedies and herbs, in particular, are widely used and discussed. One such important herb is Ashwagandha.
Did you hear about the magical rejuvenating effects of Ashwagandha and want to know more?
Whatever it is, you have come to the right place, as this blog will provide you with all the insights about one of the most powerful Ayurvedic herbs, Ashwagandha.
What’s in a Name?
An amusing fact about this herb is that it originates from the Sanskrit word “ashwagandha”, which means (ashwa—horse, gandha—smell) “the smell of a horse”, which directs to its ability to give you strength and stamina of a horse while also nurturing the female and male nervous and reproductive systems.
The power and hymns of this adaptogen.
Ashwagandha is utilised to tone, support, strengthen, and revitalise bodily functions. It has been revered for its dual capacity to energise and calm simultaneously.
Maximising the body’s ability to resist stress enables it to help and maintain essential energy throughout the day while stimulating sound, restful sleep at night.
We know stress can cause fatigue, often manifesting as “hyper” signals like agitation and difficulty sleeping. Ashwagandha can support a healthy nervous system by providing a nourishing yet energising effect.
Stress has a less intense effect on the nervous system when combined with Ashwagandha, and the “hyper” signs of stress and irritation will naturally resolve over time. As a result, Ashwagandha has a rejuvenating and calming effect on the nervous system and, thus, on the entire being.
Because of this, Ashwagandha is an excellent supplement for toning and rejuvenation.
In addition to its dual energising and calming effect, this adaptogen offers several blessings:
- Supports your healthy immune system
- Calms your mental processes
- Fosters your healthy sleep patterns
- Benefits a healthy reproductive system in both genders
- Supports sustained energy levels, strength, and vitality, including physical activity
- Supports a healthy back and joints
- Supports healthy muscles
- Promotes thyroid health
- Promotes healthy functioning of the adrenals
It’s worth noting that this herb has a warming effect. This may prompt you to wonder, “Is Ashwagandha too hot for Pitta dosha?” According to Ayurvedic principles, Ashwagandha is particularly beneficial to Vata and Kapha. It can aggravate pitta in excess due to its heating nature.
Ashwagandha is universal and can be consumed in tablet, powder, or liquid extract form. You can also take it with or without food and at any time.
Remember: Our recommendation is to always consult an expert Ayurveda doctor for a detailed assessment and diagnosis before you decide to self-medicate. Not all conditions are conducive to the intake of these roots; for example, pregnancy, excessive toxins in the body, and a pitta-based body.
How can you mask Ashwagandha’s bitter taste?
Historically, people consumed Ashwagandha by mixing the powder with milk or ghee. Today people are expanding and experimenting with using raw powder in a variety of drinks and other recipes.
If Ashwagandha’s taste bothers you like most of us, here’s a simple recipe for you.
Ashwagandha tea with milk and cardamom
Tea is one of the most familiar ways to consume Ashwagandha. Ayurveda suggests drinking up to 2 cups daily to see relevant effects.
Let’s see how to prepare it, shall we?
What you need:
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 of water
- 1 teaspoon Ashwagandha powder (5 grams)
- A dash of honey (only if you need it for sweetening your drink)
- Mix the milk, water and Ashwagandha powder and heat it till it’s lukewarm. Add the cardamom while the mixture is lukewarm, and drink it twice a day.
- Add honey when the tea is ready to drink (do not add honey while cooking your drink)
There you have it!
Ashwagandha is a beautiful plant with many uses to benefit the mind, body, and spirit. It is essential, however, to be well-informed about what you are putting in your body, where it came from, and if it is right for you. Always take the time to educate yourself and find reputable sources before experimenting with any herb, then enjoy Ashwagandha’s horse-like power and healing effects.
If you want to connect with AAC, you can start small and keep it simple with Ayurveda, adding more when you are ready- why not call us today?
