Ashwagandha is an incredible adaptogenic herb that has been used in Ayurvedic healing traditions for over 3,000 years. Known scientifically as Withania somnifera, its name translates to “smell of horse” due to its unique scent and ability to provide strength and vitality like that of a horse.
Making homemade ashwagandha powder allows you to control the freshness and quality of your herbs. You can also save money by buying ashwagandha root in bulk.
Ingredients & Equipment Needed
Making ashwagandha powder requires just a few basic ingredients and tools:
Equipment:
- Food processor or blender
- Knife and cutting board
- Baking sheet
- Glass jar with lid
It’s best to use high quality, organic ashwagandha root purchased from a reputable supplier. You’ll also need cheesecloth for straining, a food processor or blender for grinding, and jars for storage.
Homemade Ashwagandha Powder Recipe
Ingredients
- Ashwagandha root
- Cheesecloth
Instructions
Clean The Ashwagandha Root
- Rinse the ashwagandha root thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris. You can use a vegetable brush to gently scrub the skin. Pat the roots dry with paper towels when finished.
Cut And Dry The Roots
- Chop the roots into smaller half inch pieces using a sharp knife and cutting board. This allows them to dry faster. Spread the chopped ashwagandha in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Key Takeaway: Allow the roots to dry completely before grinding to powder, which usually takes 4-7 days.
- Place the baking sheet in a warm, dry spot out of direct sunlight. Flip the pieces over halfway through the drying time. The roots are fully dried when they snap easily when bent and don’t feel moist.
Grind Into A Fine Powder
- Working in batches, add the dried ashwagandha pieces to a high-powered blender or food processor. Pulse a few times to break them down initially. Then let the machine run for 30-60 seconds, stopping and stirring occasionally, until a fine powder forms.
- Tip: Use a sieve or mesh strainer to sift out any remaining root chunks that didn’t fully grind down. You can discard them or grind again for full utilization.
Store In An Airtight Container
- Transfer the freshly made ashwagandha powder into a labeled glass jar with an airtight lid. Store the jar in a cool, dry place away from sunlight for maximum freshness and potency lasting 6-12 months.
- And that’s all there is to it! You now have a batch of homemade ashwagandha powder to enjoy for months to come.
FAQs
How much powder will I get from the roots?
On average, 100 grams of whole ashwagandha root yields about 30 grams of dried powder. The yield can vary based on the size and moisture content of the specific batch of roots.
Can I use a coffee grinder instead?
Yes, you can use an electric coffee grinder to pulverize the roots into powder. Just make sure to thoroughly clean it after grinding any herbs to prevent cross-contamination.
Is it necessary to strain the powder?
Straining is an optional step but can help remove any remaining fibrous pieces for the silkiest texture powder possible. Use a very fine mesh sieve or layers of cheesecloth.
How should I take my homemade ashwagandha powder?
Most people take 1-2 teaspoons of ashwagandha powder per day. Simply stir it into a glass of warm milk, add to smoothies, mix into oatmeal, or blend into herbal tea lattes. Get creative with your preferred methods of consumption to enjoy the benefits regularly.
Can I use other parts of the ashwagandha plant?
While the roots are most commonly used, you can also utilize the leaves or berries in powder form. Each part offers slightly different therapeutic constituents.
Conclusion
Making DIY ashwagandha powder is simple using this easy step-by-step tutorial. Within just a few days, you can have a nutritious batch from start to finish. The process only requires basic ingredients like organic ashwagandha root, cheesecloth, a food processor, and jars for storage away from sunlight.
Customizing your own powder allows you to control the freshness and quality. It also saves money by purchasing herbs in bulk amounts. Ashwagandha offers an abundance of evidence-backed health benefits from lowering stress and increasing energy to enhancing brain function and immunity.