Ashwagandha: What is it good for?
Ashwagandha is said to have many beneficial properties. It's also ideal for a low-histamine diet and can be consumed as a tea or added to food. Have you already incorporated ashwagandha into your diet?
What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is a highly adaptable and robust plant , also known by its Latin name Withania somnifera (meaning "sleep-inducing"). The German term "Schlafbeere" (sleep berry) is derived from this botanical name. It is native to the Middle East, North Africa, and India, but is also cultivated in England and North America. This member of the nightshade family can thrive even in poor soil conditions, grows to about one meter tall, and bears small red fruits that resemble small cherry tomatoes. This is the origin of the name "winter cherry." Ashwagandha is Sanskrit—the term translates to "smell of the horse," reflecting the plant's strength.
Ashwagandha: Intake and Use
Ashwagandha is very popular in Ayurvedic medicine . The plant belongs to the adaptogens , meaning it can support well-being on various levels. One area of application is sleep problems .
Ashwagandha and dosage
It is recommended to take ashwagandha powder once or twice daily. The dose of half a teaspoon should not be exceeded.
Ashwagandha root can also be consumed as a tea . To make it, boil half a teaspoon of powder in hot water. It's best to combine the mixture with honey, warm milk, or ghee . These substances contribute to healthy digestion. With warm milk and cardamom, you even have a drink that's very similar to a chai latte. The powder can also be mixed into desserts , as it has a pleasant flavor.
The ingredients of Ashwagandha
Usually, the root of the plant is primarily used . This contains, among other things, the following ingredients:
- Steroid lactones: plant-specific substances such as withaferins or withanolides
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Alkaloids/Saponins : secondary plant compounds such as anaferins or anahygrines
Ashwagandha side effects
In very sensitive individuals with digestive issues, large quantities of the plant can cause diarrhea or abdominal cramps . Therefore, pay attention to the correct dosage . In these cases, you should discuss taking it with a doctor:
- with high testosterone levels
- in thyroid diseases
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when taking certain medications such as thyroid hormones or medications for high blood pressure and diabetes