Ashwagandha is a small shrub with yellow flowers and a potent root known for multiple wellness benefits. Ashwagandha or ‘Withania Somnifera,’ grows in warm temperatures in the dry regions of India, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. It is commonly referred to as ‘Indian Ginseng’ or ‘King of Ayurvedic herbs,’ and its use can be dated back to around 6,000 BC. This traditional herb has been used in India and Pakistan and has also gained recognition in Chinese medicine. Ashwagandha is traditionally used to support brain function, energy, and stress balance. Known as the “Prince of Herbs” in Ayurveda, its roots are used internally, while its leaves are used topically.
Ashwagandha is an adaptogen valued for its role in supporting fertility, physical performance, sleep quality, and more. It contains several beneficial bioactive compounds, including withanolides, which have antioxidant properties. The bioactive compounds in Ashwagandha include alkaloids, steroidal lactones, and saponins. Specific compounds like sitoindosides and acylsterylglucosides are associated with stress support. Sitoindosides VII–X and Withaferin-A have also been studied for their adaptogenic effects. Many of its constituents are believed to support immune system balance. The plant’s aerial parts contain 5-dehydroxy withanolide-R and withasomniferin-A.
Ashwagandha is also called “Indian Winter Cherry” or “Indian Ginseng,” and is used in traditional practices to promote vitality and overall wellness. It is sometimes given to children as a tonic and taken by adults to support longevity. Known as a “Sattvic Kapha Rasayana” herb in India, it is an adaptogen that helps the body respond to occasional stress. Ashwagandha is available in powder form which can be mixed with water, clarified butter, or honey. It is traditionally used to support brain function, memory, reproductive health, and resilience, and is known for its antioxidant activity.
Ayurveda is an ancient alternative medicine system which has been practiced throughout India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka for centuries and remains a preferred approach to wellness for many. Ayurveda translates into “knowledge of life.” Since around 6000 BC, Ayurveda has used Ashwagandha as a supportive nutritional herb. The root of Ashwagandha has been described in traditional systems as a tonic and stimulant, and is noted for a range of potential properties. In traditional uses, the root was used to support children’s growth, age-related weakness, joint comfort, digestion, and sleep. It has also been applied topically in traditional contexts for joint swelling and skin concerns. The leaves, flowers, and seeds have been used in various folk preparations for different external and internal purposes. Ashwagandharishta, a traditional preparation from Ashwagandha, has been used in Ayurvedic practice to support emotional well-being and memory, and has also been traditionally linked to male vitality.
The bioactive compounds in Ashwagandha are believed to influence stress response, immune balance, and mood regulation. While research into its effects on conditions such as insomnia, ageing, and viral illness is ongoing, scientific evidence remains limited. However, Ashwagandha continues to be well regarded by many who incorporate it into their wellness routines. At Organic Mushrooms, we offer Ashwagandha as a nutritional supplement in the form of extract powder, capsules, tinctures, and supplement gummies.