Ashwagandha, Rooted in Balance

Have you ever seen an ashwagandha plant? It's a nondescript plant that is basically shrubby and doesn’t produce showy flowers; in other words, not exactly a staple for most gardeners. The plant also makes husked berries that look somewhat like ground cherries, but you’re in for a shock if you expect a sweet treat! A lot of the power of this plant is in its roots, hidden beneath the soil. The long, tentacle-like roots contain so much adaptogenic, balancing, and healing energy. Certainly there is more than meets the eye with this one!

The word ashwagandha comes from Sanskrit, with “ashwa” meaning horse and “gandha” meaning smell, which refers to the odor that is produced by plants, especially the roots, and is reminiscent of a wet horse. Some people find it to be a much milder but similar scent to horseradish, though the two plants are not related. Interestingly, the flavor of the roots is mild and doesn’t retain that horse scent (thank goodness!)

Ashwagandha is a calming adaptogen that also energizes the body. The energy from this plant does not come in the form of a stimulant as it does in some other adaptogens, but rather it is the soothing effects of ashwagandha that are restorative to the body. This is a great example of the balancing energy of adaptogens, especially in how ashwagandha is able to reduce adrenal fatigue. When we are consistently stressed, our adrenals become depleted from being overworked. Ashwaghanda relieves anxiety and stress, which allows the adrenals to rest and to have a more normalized function. This in turn means that our bodies are able to use the energy that was being directed towards the adrenals for other areas of our bodies, and we in turn feel less exhausted. A fun fact: part of ashwagandha’s Latin name, somnifera, means “sleep inducing,” from the plant’s ability to regulate cortisol, balance the adrenals, and encourage better sleep. And we all know that a good night’s sleep is essential to a less stressful life!

Like plenty of other adaptogens, ashwagandha can be used in protocol for autoimmune issues, particularly where there is inflammation and chronic pain, such as rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia. Ashwagandha is able to reduce the body’s sensitivity to pain, acting as a sort of deflector. Ashwagandha also has a thyroid stimulating effect in the body, making it a wonderful treatment for mild hypothyroidism. This is also a great plant medicine and ally in cancer treatments. Ashwagandha has an anti-cancer protective action in the body, especially for cancers that are caused by carcinogens. In cancer treatment, ashwagandha can help protect vital organs from the effects of chemotherapy and radiation. Of course, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate medical professionals if you are taking medications, especially thyroid medication, or undergoing cancer treatment. 

So really, don’t judge this book by its cover! Sometimes the biggest gifts come in the most inconspicuous packages, and sometimes you have to dig deep to find what you’re looking for.