Ashwagandha Powder 100g

Description

Ashwagandha Powder is made from the ashwagandha plant which is a small shrub that grows on the Indian subcontinent. “Ashwa” means horse and “gandha” means smell. This translates into the smell and power of a horse.

The ashwagandha root has been consumed in India for many years and is thought to have numerous health benefits.

Ashwagandha root has been used in Ayurveda (traditional Indian medicine) to restore vitality and low sexual energy, improve overall health and relieve stress.

Ashwagandha powder is still relatively new in the Western world and many studies haven’t been done yet on its benefits or side effects. It is highly beneficial for some but can cause adverse effects in others.

In Ayurveda, this herb is thought to be very heating. If you have a high “pitta”, this herb may be too hot for you.

If you are considering consuming Ashwagandha powder, the best thing to do is to either:

• Work with an Ayurvedic practitioner to figure out whether you should consume this ashwagandha powder
• Or start by taking a small amount and see what effect it has on you

 

What does ashwagandha powder taste like?

Ashwagandha powder has a very bitter earth like taste.

 

How should I use ashwagandha powder?

Ashwagandha powder can be consumed as a health tonic or latte in the following ways:

• Add 1/2 tsp of ashwagandha powder to 1 cup of hot water and add honey/maple syrup to sweeten it.
• Simmer 1/2 tsp of ashwagandha powder in 1 cup of milk over low heat for 15 minutes. Add sugar (or honey/maple syrup/jaggery) and a pinch of nutmeg/cardamom powder, cinnamon powder, turmeric powder, ginger powder and stir well. Turn off heat. You can also add a bit of ghee.
• If you are vegan, try the above ashwagandha latte replacing dairy milk with almond milk.
• If you have a high “pitta”, try mixing the ashwagandha powder with coconut milk and honey instead.
• Add 1/2 tsp of ashwagandha powder, 1/2 tsp of ghee and 1/2 tsp of honey in a bowl, mix and consume.

 

It can be used in:

• Desserts
• Juices
• Smoothies
• Milkshakes
• Ashwagandha tea
• Ashwagandha Turmeric Latte
• Ashwagandha Health tonic
• Coffee

 

How much ashwagandha powder should I eat per day?

You should consult this with an ayurvedic practitioner but the usual serving is 1/4 – 1/2 tsp of ashwagandha powder either once or twice a day.

 

At what time should I drink the ashwagandha tea or the ashwagandha latte?

Ashwagandha tea can be taken in the morning when you wake up for increased strength and vitality.

The Ashwagandha latte can be taken in the night before going to bed for good sleep, stress relief and increased sexual drive.

 

How to store ashwagandha powder?

Store ashwagandha powder in a cool, dark cupboard away from direct sunlight or heat (such as your stove) or humidity.

Ashwagandha powder can last for up to 1- 2 years if stored well.

I always find that storing any powder in the refrigerator increases its shelf life quite a bit. Once open, place your ashwagandha powder in an airtight zip lock bag, place in a container and store it in your refrigerator. You need to ensure that ashwagandha powder is stored in a cold, dry place. Moisture should not enter inside the ashwagandha powder.

 

Does ashwagandha powder have any nutritional benefits?

In India, ashwagandha powder has been used in Ayurveda (traditional Indian medicine) to treat insomnia, revitalise health and increase sexual drive.

Some studies have been done in modern science and there are some benefits as well as some adverse side effects.

The benefits of consuming Ashwagandha powder (according to Webmd and healthline.com) supported by scientific research are as below:

• Ashwagandha powder may improve sleep quality and reduce insomnia
• Ashwagandha powder may relieve stress, anxiety and depression
• Ashwagandha powder may enhance physical strength
• Ashwagandha powder may increase testosterone and fertility in men, however, more research is needed
• Ashwagandha powder may improve cognitive function including memory and reaction time, however, more research is needed

 

Does ashwagandha powder have any adverse side effects?

As with all foods, it’s always best to eat a little bit to start out with (if you’ve never eaten it before) to check if you have any side effects.

Ashwagandha powder in large doses may cause stomach upset, diarrhoea, vomiting.

In Ayurveda, people with a low digestive fire/agni should not consume ashwagandha powder as it may create digestive problems.

Ashwagandha powder should not be eaten during pregnancy as there is some evidence it may cause miscarriages.

 

According to Webmd;

“Auto-immune diseases” such as multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), or other conditions: Ashwagandha might cause the immune system to become more active, and this could increase the symptoms of auto-immune diseases. If you have one of these conditions, it’s best to avoid using ashwagandha.

Surgery: Ashwagandha may slow down the central nervous system. Healthcare providers worry that anesthesia and other medications during and after surgery might increase this effect. Stop taking ashwagandha at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Thyroid disorders: Ashwagandha might increase thyroid hormone levels. Ashwagandha should be used cautiously or avoided if you have a thyroid condition or take thyroid hormone medications.

 

Consult your GP if you have any conditions and have some concerns about consuming ashwagandha powder.

Working with an Ayurveda practitioner may be beneficial if you are unsure or have any of the conditions above.

 

Does ashwagandha powder have any other uses?

Ashwagandha powder can also be used in:

• making an ashwagandha face pack for skin care – it is thought to treat acne and add a glow. Mix 1/2 tsp of ashwagandha powder with water and form a paste like consistency. Apply on face, let dry and then wash off
• Traditionally, a paste of ashwagandha powder and water can be applied to inflamed joints to get relief from pain