How to Buy Ashwagandha Seeds and Grow Your Own Medicinal Herbs at Home

FAQs

What climate is best for growing ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha thrives in hot, dry climates with temperatures between 70-95F. It needs full sun exposure and sandy, well-draining soil.

How long does it take for ashwagandha to mature?

Ashwagandha is usually ready for harvest in about 6-8 months. The plants reach a height of 2-4 feet when fully mature.

Should I plant ashwagandha seeds directly outdoors?

It's best to start ashwagandha seeds indoors in pots first. Transplant seedlings outside once night temperatures stay above 50F.

What part of the ashwagandha plant is used?

The medicinal components are found in the roots and berries. Ashwagandha supplements are usually made from the root powder.

How much space do I need to grow ashwagandha?

Space ashwagandha plants 18-24 inches apart in rows set 3 feet apart. Each plant needs 1-4 square feet of space to grow.

How to Buy and Grow Ashwagandha from Seeds at Home

Ashwagandha is a medicinal herb long used in Ayurvedic healing traditions. Also called Indian ginseng or winter cherry, ashwagandha offers many potential health benefits. Growing your own ashwagandha is a rewarding way to add this healing plant to your wellness routine.

Where to Buy Ashwagandha Seeds

Look for companies selling non-GMO, organic ashwagandha seeds harvested for planting. Reputable online retailers offering ashwagandha seeds include:

• Strictly Medicinal Seeds
• Mountain Rose Herbs
• Horizon Herbs
• Eden Brothers
• Outsidepride

Many sell the seeds in packet sizes ranging from 25 to over 500 seeds. Choose an amount suitable for the space you have available to plant.

How to Plant Ashwagandha Seeds

Ashwagandha can be planted by seed either indoors or directly outside into your garden. Here are some tips for success:

• Fill starter pots or trays with seed starting mix. Plant 1-2 seeds per pot.
• Cover seeds lightly with 14 inch of soil. Gently water.
• Place in a warm spot with 70F temperature. Germination takes 14-21 days.
• When sprouts have 4 true leaves, thin to 1 plant per pot.
• Transplant outside after danger of frost when plants reach 6 inches tall.
• Harden off plants first by setting them outdoors for short periods over 7-10 days.

For direct sowing outside, wait 6-8 weeks after the last frost date. Sow seeds 12 inch deep and 12 inches apart in rows. Thin later to the proper spacing.

Ashwagandha Growing Conditions

For optimal growth and medicinal potency, ashwagandha needs:

• Daytime temperatures of 70-95F
• At least 6 hours of full sunlight daily
• Well-draining, sandy soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5
• Spacing of 18-24 inches between plants
• Consistent irrigation until established then reduce watering
• Minimal fertilizer, only once after planting

Ashwagandha is drought tolerant but regular watering when first planted helps development. Trellising can help stabilize tall, lanky plants.

When to Harvest Ashwagandha

Wait to harvest ashwagandha roots until the plants are at least 6-8 months old. Look for these signs the roots are mature:

• Leaves, stems, and berries start yellowing and drying out
• Berries split open revealing orange-red seeds
• Roots are large in diameter when compared to plant size
• A strong, horsey odor emerges from the root

Dig up entire plants, separating the leaves, berries, and roots for drying and preservation.

How to Dry and Store Ashwagandha

Proper drying and storage keeps ashwagandha's medicinal qualities intact. Heres how:

• Rinse dirt off roots, trim leaves and stems.
• Use a dehydrator set to 95-115F to dry the plant parts until brittle.
• Roots take the longest, up to 36 hours. Turn pieces during drying.
• Alternatively, air dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area out of sun.
• Store fully dried materials in airtight glass jars in a cool, dark place.

With correctly harvested and stored ashwagandha, you'll have an abundant herbal remedy to use all year long.

The Potential Medicinal Uses and Benefits of Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha has long been prized in Ayurveda for its healing properties. The chemicals withanolides and various alkaloids give the plant its medicinal activity. Research is still emerging, but potential ashwagandha benefits include:

• Reducing stress and anxiety - Ashwagandha helps moderate cortisol levels and balance mood.
• Supporting brain function - Compounds may boost memory, cognition, and concentration while protecting the brain from degeneration.
• Lowering blood sugar - May improve insulin sensitivity and have anti-diabetic effects.
• Boosting male fertility - Can increase sperm count, motility, and testosterone levels.
• Easing joint pain - Anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties help arthritis.
• Increasing energy and endurance - Adaptogenic effects lead to more energy and athletic performance.

More research is still needed, but adding ashwagandha to your wellness routine shows promising benefits.

How to Safely Consume Ashwagandha

Once harvested and dried, you can use your homegrown ashwagandha to make:

• Tea - Add 1 teaspoon of dried root powder to hot water and steep for 10 minutes. Strain and drink.
• Tincture - Soak roots in alcohol for weeks then strain. Use drops sublingually.
• Powder - Grind roots in a spice grinder. Add to food, drinks, or capsules.
• Paste - Blend powdered root with small amounts of water. Use topically.

When consuming ashwagandha, keep this dosage and safety guidance in mind:

• Take 300-500mg capsules once or twice daily, or as directed on supplements.
• Look for standardized root extract for optimal potency.
• Dont exceed recommended dosing, as high amounts may cause side effects.
• Avoid if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications - check for interactions.

Talk to your healthcare provider before using ashwagandha if you have any medical conditions or take any medications.

Growing Your Own Medicinal Herbs

In addition to ashwagandha, consider planting any of these other beneficial medicinal herbs at home:

• Echinacea - Immune supporting roots and leaves
• Chamomile - Calming flowers for tea
• Valerian - Relaxing roots and stress relief
• Lemon balm - Uplifting and settling leaves
• Peppermint - Soothing stomach tea
• Sage - Antimicrobial and memory boosting

With the right seeds, care, and growing conditions you can enjoy an abundant medicinal herb garden that supports your health and wellbeing all season long.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.