Ashwagandha is an amazing adaptogen that can promote both abundant energy AND peaceful sleep! Let's dive into the powers of this remarkable herb, and learn two delicious recipes that pair it with other superstar ingredients like matcha and turmeric.
What Are the Benefits of Ashwagandha?
As one of Ayurveda's most beloved adaptogenic herbs, it adapts to what the body needs and is useful in all conditions that are caused by stress.
If you need help calming and grounding for restful sleep—or maybe you need help with both balanced energy and sleep!—this herb has the power to help.
Increasing Energy
- The word ashwagandha translates to “that which has the smell of a horse,” not only because the fresh plant has an interesting odor, but more importantly because it gives the vitality and stamina of a horse. Through this, it can help you stay energized throughout your day—without caffeine!
- In fact, studies have shown this herb to not only support healthy energy levels, but also nourish the tissues, increase muscular strength, and promote quality sleep.
Promoting Healthy Sleep
- This incredible herb has multiple benefits as a nighttime beverage. In fact, its botanical name, Withania somnifera, tells us something about its connection to sleep.
- Somnifera translates to “sleep-inducing,” reflecting its relaxing and calming properties that bring us energy by supporting deeper rest.
This is only a taste of the many benefits of ashwagandha!
Milk Substitutes
Please feel free to use a milk substitute for either of the following recipes. A creamier type is recommended, such as coconut, or even macadamia.
You can also use other nut milks as substitutes. I encourage to you choose a substitute that is appropriate for your dosha, be it vata, pitta, or kapha, and to make your own nut milk rather than store-bought. It will not contain stabilizers or preservatives and generally be healthier for you. And yummier too!
Good Morning Ashwagandha Matcha Latte
Our star adaptogen's powers are accentuated by matcha in this recipe. Matcha, a powdered green tea, is made from the whole tea leaf and is loaded with natural antioxidants, providing a sense of calm while also promoting awareness.
A superfood, matcha also contains high levels of an amino acid called L-theanine, which calms muscles. Plus, matcha contains moderate amounts of caffeine for a gentle energy lift.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces heated water
- 1 teaspoon matcha powder
- 1 teaspoon ashwagandha powder
- 1 cup whole grass-fed milk (or substitute, see above for suggestions)
- Maple syrup to taste
- 1 pinch of cinnamon powder
Directions:
Add matcha and ashwagandha to a large mug. Pour in water (heated to approximately 180 degrees), and mix vigorously with a whisk until completely dissolved.
Stir in heated milk, sweeten with maple syrup to taste, and top with a pinch of cinnamon.
Nighttime Ashwagandha Latte with Turmeric and Chamomile
In this recipe, ashwagandha's benefits for sleep and earthy qualities are strengthened with the aid of other popular herbs.
Well-known as a sleep aid, chamomile (both European and Egyptian) has been consumed for centuries for its calming and relaxing effect on the nervous system.
Turmeric works its magic while you are sleeping, easing excess heat, boosting the immune system, and supporting healthy intestinal flora. The ginger and cardamom aid the digestive process, while the cinnamon can help support healthy blood sugar.
Nutmeg crowns this golden latte, calming the mind, while also adding its warming and fragrant nature.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces purified water
- 2 tablespoons dried chamomile
- 1 teaspoon ashwagandha powder
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ¼ inch ginger root, chopped
- ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder
- ¼ inch piece of cinnamon
- 1 cup grass-fed milk (or milk substitute, see above suggestions)
- Maple syrup to taste
- 1 pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (powdered is also fine)
Directions:
In a small pot bring water to a boil. Add chamomile, ashwagandha, turmeric, ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon. Lower heat to a simmer and cover for 5 minutes. Strain the herbs from the concentrated liquid and pour into a mug.
While the herbs are simmering, bring the milk to a gentle boil. Remove from heat.
Once the herbs have finished simmering, pour the liquid into a mug while straining out the herbs. Pour milk over the tea. Sweeten to taste with the maple syrup. Add a pinch of nutmeg to finish.
Sip on this delightful drink a half hour to an hour before bed, before you begin your bedtime routine.
