Ashwagandha Root Powder Benefits, Uses, and What to Know Before Adding It to Your Routine

Ashwagandha root powder has become increasingly popular throughout the US. So popular that many people now have it in their pantry. If you want to consume ashwagandha root you can now purchase it as a powder. It's a simple and effective way to add this powerful adaptogen to your daily life.

Perhaps you have noticed ashwagandha powder and want to learn what it is, what it is used for and if it's something you want to include in your diet. In this article we will discuss ashwagandhas history, what studies have shown and how to use ashwagandha root powder. We will also cover things you should know about before you begin taking ashwagandha.

So if you want to learn more about ashwagandha powder, or why you would take it instead of ashwagandha capsules, read on to learn more.

What is Ashwagandha Root Powder?

Ashwagandha is a plant that grows in India, Africa and the middle east. Its scientific name is Withania Somnifera. It's commonly known as Indian Ginseng and Winter Cherry. The name Ashwagandha translates to the smell of horses because the root smells like horses.

Ashwagandha has been used as a medicine for centuries in India. It is one of the most widely used Ayurveda herbs and has been classified as a rasayana. The root is typically dried then ground into a fine powder. This powder can then be consumed by adding it to warm milk and honey or ghee.

Ashwagandha root powder is simply the dried ashwagandha root that is ground into a fine powder. Unlike ashwagandha extracts ashwagandha root powder contains the full root.

What Are Withanolides?

You will see ashwagandha products that list the amount of withanolides. Withanolides are the chemical compounds that are found in ashwagandha. There are many withanolides that have been identified in ashwagandha but they are mainly found in the roots and leaves of the plant.

Since withanolides can vary from plant to plant some ashwagandha powders are standardized. This means the ashwagandha root powder will have a certain percentage of withanolides per serving. Bula Natural Living Ashwagandha Root Powder is standardized to 2.5% withanolides.

When shopping for ashwagandha root powder it's always good to see if it is standardized and know what other ingredients may be in the powder.

Uses Of Ashwagandha Root Powder

Ashwagandha Has Been Used As An Adaptogen

As mentioned above Ashwagandha has been used as a herb for thousands of years. One of its main uses is as an adaptogen. Adaptogens help your body withstand stress and allow you to feel your best.

What Studies Have Shown

Studies have been done to look at ashwagandha and how it affects our bodies. Here are a few that we found interesting.

• Stress & Relaxation: Ashwagandha can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. There have been several clinical trials that have shown ashwagandha can help people with high levels of stress. These studies have shown ashwagandha can decrease stress and cortisol levels. An international task force of researchers has recommended a specific dose of ashwagandha root extract for those who are looking to combat stress. Further studies need to be conducted to learn more about how ashwagandha can help reduce stress.
• Sleep Support: Ashwagandha can help you sleep. A systematic review in 2021 looked at ashwagandha and sleep. They found that ashwagandha did have a slight impact on sleep. With higher doses and taking ashwagandha for 8 weeks or more you may notice improved sleep.
• Energy & Recovery: Ashwagandha may improve your energy. Studies have shown that ashwagandha can increase your energy and help you recover faster.

Keep in mind that these studies are based on ashwagandha extracts. While there is more research being done we believe it's safe to say ashwagandha root powder is a great addition to your daily routine.

Ashwagandha Powder Vs Capsules

There are many options when it comes to taking ashwagandha. Powder, capsules, gummies and liquid. Each has its pros and cons.

When taking ashwagandha powder you have the ability to control your dosage. You can also mix it into your favorite beverages. Downside is ashwagandha root powder can have a strong taste.

If you don't like the taste of ashwagandha powder then capsules are a great option. You can take ashwagandha anywhere with no taste.

Like with all supplements it comes down to your preference. If you enjoy adding ashwagandha to your smoothies or drinks then powder may be best for you.

How To Use Ashwagandha Root Powder

Ashwagandha root powder can be added to many things. Bula Natural Living recommends adding ½-1 tsp to your favorite beverage. You can add it to smoothies, tea, juice or milk.

Here are some ideas on how to use ashwagandha root powder:

• Add it to warm milk along with honey and cinnamon. This is the traditional way to consume ashwagandha.
• Make a golden milk by combining ashwagandha with turmeric and other spices.
• Blend it into a smoothie with banana, cacao and your favorite ingredients.
• Add it to coffee or tea. Some people love the taste and some don't. Try adding a little to your coffee and see how you like it.
• Sprinkle it on top of oatmeal or yogurt.

Ashwagandha root powder has an earthy bitter taste so it's best to pair it with flavors that will mask that. Cinnamon, honey and cacao all work well with ashwagandha.

How Much Ashwagandha Root Powder Should I Take?

There is no set amount of ashwagandha that you should take. Since ashwagandha is an herb that can be used as a food you should follow the directions on the label. At Bula Natural Living we recommend taking ½-1 tsp of our Ashwagandha Root Powder.

Some people take ashwagandha at night to help them relax and fall asleep. Others take it in the morning to help them get through their day. Take ashwagandha whenever is most convenient for you. Just remember to take it everyday to see results.

Things To Know About Ashwagandha Root Powder

Ashwagandha root powder is generally considered safe for most people. However there are some things you should know about before you begin taking ashwagandha.

• Do not take ashwagandha if you are pregnant.
• Ashwagandha can interact with certain medications. If you take any medications for your thyroid, blood sugar, blood pressure, anxiety, insomnia, epilepsy or immunosuppressants talk to your doctor before taking ashwagandha.
• Ashwagandha may affect your thyroid. If you have a thyroid condition talk to your doctor before taking ashwagandha.
• Side effects of ashwagandha can include diarrhea, drowsiness and nausea. In rare cases liver damage has occurred.
• Ashwagandha has only been studied for short periods of time. There isn't much information about what happens if you take ashwagandha for long periods of time.
• Always talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement.

What To Look For When Buying Ashwagandha Root Powder

There are many ashwagandha root powders on the market. Here are some things to look for when buying ashwagandha powder.

• USDA Organic: This means the ashwagandha was grown organically without the use of pesticides or chemicals.
• Standardized: As mentioned above look for a ashwagandha powder that is standardized. This will ensure you are getting the same amount of withanolides in each serving. Bula Natural Living Ashwagandha Root Powder is standardized to 2.5% withanolides.
• No Fillers Or Additives: Make sure your ashwagandha powder does not contain any fillers or additives.
• Root Sourced: Make sure the ashwagandha you are purchasing is from the root of the plant.

At Bula Natural Living our Ashwagandha Root Powder is USDA Organic, Standardized to 2.5% withanolides and contains no fillers or additives.

Myths About Ashwagandha

• "Ashwagandha will make you feel relaxed instantly." Ashwagandha takes time to work in your body. Give it a few weeks and take it daily.
• "The more you take the better you will feel." Just because more is better doesn't apply to ashwagandha. Take the amount that is listed on the label and give your body time to absorb it.
• "Ashwagandha will cure my anxiety or insomnia." Ashwagandha is not a medicine and cannot be used to treat any illness. It can help you feel more relaxed and help you sleep but it's not a miracle pill.
• "All ashwagandha is the same." Not all ashwagandha is created equal. Some are made from the root and others from the leaf and root. There are also different forms of ashwagandha like extracts. Make sure you know what you are buying.

Final Thoughts

Ashwagandha root powder is a great way to consume one of the most popular adaptogens. It can be added to any of your favorite beverages or recipes. With centuries of use and studies backing its effectiveness it's a great herb to add to your daily routine.

If you want to try ashwagandha root powder look for a brand that is organic, standardized and contains no fillers or additives. Bula Natural Living offers a USDA Organic Ashwagandha Root Powder that is perfect for any of your simple living needs.

Educational Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to diagnose or treat any disease. Always talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement.

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