Ashwagandha Powder - Nan Fei Zui Jia - Withania somnifera
Harvested: India
History/Folklore: The scientific name “somnifera” comes from the Latin word for “sleep inducing”. While the name Ashwagandha translates to “ smell of the horse”. The first part of the word comes from the word “ashva” which means horse and the end of the word “gandha” meaning to smell like. This is due to the roots key characteristic of smelling like a sweaty horse.
The powder is commonly used in India, and is called churna. Churna is commonly used mixed with milk and honey.
Key Actions: Adaptogen, Alterative, Analgesic, Aphrodisiac, Anti-inflammatory, Antispasmodic, Cardioprotective, Diuretic, Nervine Tonic, Nutritive Tonic, Slightly Sedating, Thyroid Stimulant,
Key Constituents: Phytochemical compounds, Somniferine, Volatile oil, Resin, Fatty acids, Potassium nitrate, Tannin, Glucose, Alkaloids, Steroidal lactones (including Tropine and Cuscohygrine and the leaves also contain Withaferin A).
Uses: In India this herb is used for nutritive care in children and the elderly. It is also used for issues with anxiety, depressions, high levels of stress, and the inability to calm down or fall asleep. It is known to help with the side effects of quitting drugs or alcohol. Assist in the healing time of ulcers. Used for men for lowered libidos, low sperm count, or to assist boosting motility of sperm.
Eastern Energetics:
Temperature: Warm
Energetics: Sweet, Bitter, Pungent
Meridians: LU, HT, SP
Actions:
- Tonify Wei Qi
- Expels wind/cold
- Tonifies the Sp
- Calms the Shen
“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.”