Ashwagandha
Withania somnifera
南非醉茄
Pinyin: Nán Fēi Zuì Qié
Plant Family
Solanaceae
Part Used
Root (primarily), leaf, berry
Origin
India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, North Africa
Safety Level
Safe
Overview
Ashwagandha is a small shrub with yellow-green flowers and red berries, native to the Indian subcontinent. It is one of the most important herbs in Ayurvedic medicine, where it has been used for over 3,000 years as a rasayana (rejuvenative) and adaptogen. The name "ashwagandha" means "smell of horse" in Sanskrit, referring to both its strong odor and its reputation for imparting the strength and vitality of a horse.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Properties
Nature (四气)
warm
Flavors (五味)
sweet, bitter, astringent
Meridians (归经)
nervous system, reproductive, immune
Health Benefits
Traditional Uses
- Rasayana - rejuvenative tonic for longevity
- Strengthens the immune system after illness
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Improves sleep and treats insomnia
- Enhances reproductive health in both men and women
- Supports recovery from chronic illness
- Nourishes the nervous system
Active Constituents
The key compounds responsible for this herb's therapeutic effects:
Usage & Dosage
How to Use
Available as powder, capsules, tablets, liquid extract, or as a traditional decoction. Best taken with warm milk or food to enhance absorption and reduce potential digestive upset.
Suggested Dosage
Powder: 3-6g daily. Capsules: 300-600mg of standardized extract (5% withanolides). For KSM-66: 300-600mg daily.
Quality & Storage
Harvest Season
Winter, after plants die back; roots are harvested from mature plants (1-2 years old)
Quality Indicators
KSM-66 is the gold standard - full-spectrum root extract with 5% withanolides. Good quality root powder is light tan, has characteristic earthy odor, and is free of stems and leaves.
Storage
Store in airtight container in cool, dry place, protected from light. Powder and extracts: 2-3 years shelf life.
Safety Information
Contraindications
Pregnancy (may have abortifacient effects in high doses)Breastfeeding (insufficient data)Autoimmune diseases (may stimulate immune system)Thyroid disorders (may increase thyroid hormone)Diabetes (may lower blood sugar)Upcoming surgery (sedative effects may interact with anesthesia)
Possible Side Effects
- Mild digestive upset (when taken on empty stomach)
- Drowsiness or sedation (in sensitive individuals)
- Headache
- Nausea
- Generally well-tolerated at recommended doses
Drug Interactions
- Sedatives and CNS depressants (may enhance sedation)
- Thyroid medications
- Immunosuppressants
- Diabetes medications (may add to blood sugar lowering)
- Blood pressure medications
Note: Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before starting any herbal supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have medical conditions, or take medications.
References & Research
Information on this page is based on traditional herbal knowledge and modern scientific research. For a comprehensive list of references, please refer to our full citations page.
ℹ️ Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The FDA has not evaluated these statements. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal supplements.
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