Withania somnifera an erect, evergreen tomentose shrub, 24-36 inch. high, found throughout the drier parts of India in waste places and on bunds; also cultivated to a limited extent for medicinal roots. The extract is derived form the roots of Withania somnifera belonging to family Solanaceae. It is commonly known as Ashwagandha which indicates the equine (of horses) odor of the plant. Its main use, as described in Ayurvedic literature, is as a “rasayana” or rejuvenating drug and hence also traditionally known as Avarada which suggests the application of this plant for enhancing longevity. Withania somnifera is one of the best known and most researched Ayurvedic herbs and holds a place in the Ayurvedic traditions similar to Ginseng in Chinese therapies.

Withania somnifera an erect, evergreen tomentose shrub, 24-36 inch. high, found throughout the drier parts of India in waste places and on bunds; also cultivated to a limited extent for medicinal roots. The extract is derived form the roots of Withania somnifera belonging to family Solanaceae. It is commonly known as Ashwagandha which indicates the equine (of horses) odor of the plant. Its main use, as described in Ayurvedic literature, is as a “rasayana” or rejuvenating drug and hence also traditionally known as Avarada which suggests the application of this plant for enhancing longevity. Withania somnifera is one of the best known and most researched Ayurvedic herbs and holds a place in the Ayurvedic traditions similar to Ginseng in Chinese therapies.