Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is one of the best-known herbs in the world today, but its story began thousands of years ago in India. A small evergreen shrub with pale green flowers and bright orange-red berries, it is the root that has been prized for generations.

At a glance

• Botanical name: Withania somnifera
• Plant family: Nightshade family (Solanaceae)
• Part we use: Root
• Native to: India, the Middle East and parts of Africa
• Character: Earthy, slightly bitter

History and tradition

Ashwagandha has been part of Ayurveda, India's traditional system of herbal practice, for more than 3,000 years. There, it is regarded as a rasayana, a restorative herb used in the long tradition of supporting vitality and resilience.

The name comes from Sanskrit and is usually translated as "smell of the horse". This refers both to the earthy aroma of the fresh root and to the old belief that it gave the strength of a horse. Its botanical name, somnifera, comes from Latin and relates to sleep, a nod to its long association with evening use.

In modern herbalism, ashwagandha is often described as an adaptogen, a traditional term for herbs used to help the body adapt to the demands of daily life.

Where you will find Ashwagandha in our tinctures

• In NIGHTTIME, ashwagandha brings its long evening tradition to the blend, alongside Chamomile, Lavender, Linden Flower and Oat Straw.
• In CALM, it sits at the grounding heart of the blend with Lemon Balm, Vervain, Linden Flower and Oat Straw.
• In ENERGY, it represents the restorative side of Ayurvedic tradition, balanced with Siberian Ginseng, Gotu Kola, Rose Hip and Hibiscus.
• You will also find it in the Travel mini tincture inside the Reset Box.

Did you know?

Ashwagandha is a member of the nightshade family, which makes it a distant relative of tomatoes, potatoes and aubergines.

Good to know

Ashwagandha is not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you have a thyroid condition, an autoimmune condition, a liver condition, or take medication, speak to your GP or pharmacist before use. The UK's Committee on Toxicity is currently reviewing the safety of ashwagandha in food supplements, and we are following this work closely.

As with any herbal supplement, please speak to your GP or pharmacist before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition.

Meet more herbs

If you enjoyed learning about Ashwagandha, you may also like Siberian Ginseng, Gotu Kola and Oat Straw. Or browse every plant in our blends on Meet the Herbs.

Blooming Blends tinctures are food supplements and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Food supplements should not replace a varied, balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.