What Is Ashwagandha?

Angela Gioffre Nutritionist with 25 years of experience.

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Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a small shrub native to India, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. In Ayurvedic medicine, it has been used for centuries as a restorative herb to support resilience, energy, and balance. The name “ashwagandha” translates to “smell of a horse” in Sanskrit, a reference to its earthy aroma and the belief that it could help support strength and vitality.

Today, ashwagandha is widely recognised as an adaptogen — a natural substance that helps the body adapt to stress.

Traditionally Used in Ayurveda

In traditional Ayurvedic practice, ashwagandha was taken as a daily rasayana — a rejuvenating tonic. It was believed to:

• Maintain vitality and general wellness

• Support the body through physical and emotional challenges

• Help restore balance to the nervous system

• Promote restful sleep and resilience

Modern Benefits of Ashwagandha

Our Forest Super Foods Ashwagandha may help to:

• Reduce symptoms of stress and mild anxiety

• Support healthy emotional balance

• Relieve nervous tension

• Support general mental wellbeing

• Maintain vitality during times of fatigue

This makes ashwagandha a popular choice for people looking for a natural way to manage the pressures of modern life.

Naturally Occurring Compounds

Ashwagandha root contains a range of naturally occurring plant compounds, including:

• Withanolides – steroidal lactones studied for their adaptogenic effects

• Alkaloids and saponins – bioactive plant compounds

• Trace minerals and amino acids

These compounds contribute to the herb’s long-standing reputation as a restorative tonic.

How Ashwagandha Is Taken

Ashwagandha is available as a capsule.

We use whole organic root powder, staying true to the traditional preparation while ensuring purity and quality.

Ashwagandha has been taken as a whole food root powder for centuries in Ayurvedic practice, usually mixed into warm milk, teas, or foods as a daily tonic. This form delivers the complete profile of naturally occurring compounds in the ratios nature intended, reflecting the way it has traditionally been consumed. In contrast, modern high-potency extracts concentrate certain compounds, most often withanolides, to achieve stronger effects in smaller doses. While extracts are convenient, there have been some published case reports linking high-dose extracts to liver stress in sensitive individuals. These events appear rare, but they highlight the importance of choosing carefully sourced products and following directions for use. For many people, sticking with whole food ashwagandha offers a gentler, balanced option that aligns with centuries of safe, traditional use.

Everyday Use

Ashwagandha is often taken:

• As part of a daily wellness routine to support calmness and balance

• During times of increased stress or emotional demand

• In the evening as part of a wind-down ritual, to help prepare for rest

• Consistently over weeks for best results, rather than as a one-off

Important Considerations

While ashwagandha is generally well tolerated, there are some points to keep in mind:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: consult a healthcare professional before use

• Medication interactions: seek advice if you’re taking prescription medicines, especially for thyroid, mood, or immune conditions

• Start small: follow the product label directions, and increase gradually if needed

Ashwagandha is more than just a herb — it’s a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern wellness. Traditionally used in Ayurveda as a rejuvenating tonic, it is now known  for its ability to help relieve stress, reduce mild anxiety, and support emotional wellbeing.

For many, adding ashwagandha into daily life is a simple, natural way to stay balanced in an increasingly fast-paced world.