Ashwagandha Root

Ayurvedic Name: Ashwagandha

Latin: Withania somnifera

PinYin: Shui Qie

Dried Ashwaganda roots

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root is sometimes referred to as “Indian Ginseng.” In India’s Ayurvedic system, Ashwagandha is classified as a rasayana herb. The name Ashwagandha means “the scripture for longevity” in Sanskrit. It has been used since the dawn of Indian civilization and is currently one of the most popular herbs in the world.

Ashwagandha is an herb that is rejuvenating to the whole body, that promotes physical and mental health, and is traditionally believed to increase longevity. Ashwagandha root rivals any tonic herb in the world. It supports healthy neurological functioning and cardiovascular health. It is very useful in mood support. Ashwagandha has well established immune potentiating activity and thus confers protection.

It is very highly regarded as a powerful adaptogenic herb, so it helps humans adapt to adverse environmental factors, and helps the body and mind handle increased stress loads, both acute and chronic, more efficiently. Ashwagandha has been demonstrated to improve learning, memory and reaction time. It is a powerful antioxidant herb. It promotes relaxation but does not cause drowsiness. Ashwagandha is used by millions as a brain tonic.

Left: A photograph of a frehsly harvested Ashwagandha plant. Right: Ron with a living Ashwagandha plant. 

A couple of important Dragon Herbs formulations contain Ashwagandha root as a major ingredient.