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Herbs in History: Ashwagandha & Purple Amaranth
July 23, 2024
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In an effort to preserve and share the fascinating histories of medicinal plants and herbs that have been used around the world for ages, the AHPA Foundation for Education and Research on Botanicals (AHPA-ERB Foundation) is honored to partner with Alain Touwaide, Ph.D., and Emanuela Appetiti of the Institute for the Preservation of Medical Traditions to launch the Herbs in History project in 2022.
Next up, dive into the histories of Ayurvedic mainstay ashwagandha and Mediterranean superfood purple amaranth. Preview the entries below and visit Herbs in History online to read more.
Ashwagandha [Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal]
From India to the Mediterranean?
Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Solanaceae) is currently most known as ashwagandha according to its designation in the Indian tradition, especially Ayurvedic medicine. In English, it is called Indian ginseng, Withania, and winter cherry. Whereas its presence in traditional Indian medicine is widely acknowledged, its use, knowledge in the Mediterranean medical history and, going even further deep, its presence in the ancient Mediterranean environment is still the object of discussion. | Read more...
Purple Amaranth (Amaranthus blitum L.)
A Simple Leafy Green
Amaranthus blitum L. (Amaranthaceae), commonly known as purple or livid amaranth and pigweed, is a basic vegetable in the Mediterranean countries, including in Greece where it is usually cooked as a leafy green and often served as a side-dish boiled and sprinkled with lemon juice and extra-virgin olive oil. Whereas it is now considered a superfood, it did not always enjoy such a reputation. | Read more...
About the Project
Herbs in History is made possible by funding from the AHPA-ERB Foundation, as part of the nonprofit foundation's mission promote education and research on medicinal, therapeutic, and health-promoting herbs. Tune in monthly for thoughtfully detailed historical accounts of herbs you know and love, and learn more about the origins of medicinal plants that have stood the test of time.
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