Organic Ashwagandha Root

Organic Ashwagandha Root is cut and sifted root of Withania somnifera, grown organically and dried gently so the pale pieces keep the earthy, horse-like smell behind its Sanskrit name. Sold cut rather than powdered, to simmer, tincture or grind yourself. Offered in 4oz, 1LB and 10lb sizes.

At a glance

• Cut and sifted root of Withania somnifera, grown organically
• Sold cut rather than powdered, to simmer, tincture or grind
• Carries withanolides, chiefly withaferin A and withanolide A, plus alkaloids, saponins and iron
• Simmer 1 teaspoon per 8 oz of water or milk for 5 to 10 minutes; 4oz, 1LB and 10lb

The herb. Ashwagandha is a small woody shrub in the nightshade family, Solanaceae, native to India, North Africa and the Middle East, and a cornerstone of Ayurvedic practice for over two thousand years, traditionally simmered in milk with honey. The withanolides are what the root is prized for and what extracts measure.

Dosage and use. Begin with a small amount: 1 teaspoon per 8 oz of water or milk, simmered gently for 5 to 10 minutes, then strained. It is slow and grounding, so judge it over a week rather than an hour. People who know their response settle at 1 to 2 teaspoons once a day, often in evening warm milk, with a break after several weeks. It builds quietly and is not a stimulant or an instant sedative. For a powder, see our Organic Ashwaganda Powder; for a measured extract, the Ashwagandha KSM 66 Extract Capsules.

Side effects. At tea strength the root is well tolerated. Larger amounts can bring digestive upset, loose stools or drowsiness, and rare reports of liver irritation exist with concentrated products. Stop if you notice yellowing skin or dark urine.

Interactions and cautions.

• Can add to sedative medications and may affect thyroid readings, so speak with your prescriber if you take thyroid medication
• Avoid with medications taken after organ transplant
• Skip it if you are allergic to nightshades
• Traditionally not used in pregnancy; consult a healthcare professional if pregnant, nursing or on any medication

Ingredients and storage. Organic Ashwagandha Root (Withania somnifera). Keep sealed in a cool, dry, dark place; cut root stores well for two years.

Common questions

• How do I prepare organic ashwagandha root at home? Simmer 1 teaspoon of cut root per 8 oz of water or milk for 5 to 10 minutes, then strain.
• Does ashwagandha root work faster than the powder? No, both are slow and steady; the powder stirs into drinks, while the cut root is better for simmering and tincturing.

Disclaimer. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Ashwagandha is a traditional botanical, and traditional use does not establish that it will produce any particular result. Consult your healthcare provider before use if you take any medication or have a medical condition. Use at your own risk and keep out of reach of children. Formulated by Healing Herbals, run by a practicing herbalist of 13+ years.