Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is the star of the show in this evening elixir that helps to balance stress levels and nurture a good night’s sleep. The traditional use of this rasayanic (rejuvenative) herb in Ayurvedic medicine is for rebuilding strength after a long illness—especially for children and elders. The scientific name somnifera references its use as a sleep aid and its common name roughly translates as “strength of a horse,” both of which infer the plant’s traditional and contemporary uses. Please enjoy this recipe that has been adapted from my mentor Dr. Aviva Romm’s own recipe.