Withania somnifera, commonly known as “Ashwagandha or Indian ginseng”, is an Ayurvedic herb known worldwide for its numerous beneficial health activities since ancient times. The root smells like horse (“Ashwa”), that is why it is called Ashwagandha (on consuming it gives the power of a horse).
Botanical Name: Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal
Common Name: Ashwagandha, Indian ginseng, winter cherry
Family: Solanaceae
Habit: Perennial sub shrub
Habitat: Cultivated throughout India
Parts used: Roots, leaves
Medicinal uses: It is commonly used in emaciation of children (when given with milk, it is the best tonic for children), stress management, debility from old age, rheumatism, constipation, insomnia, nervous breakdown, goiter and best immunity booster.
Propagation: Through seed
Bio active compounds: Withaferin-A, Withanolides A–Y
Climatic conditions for growth: Withania somnifera is grown as late rainy-season (Kharif) crop. Semitropical areas receiving 500 to 750 mm rainfall are suitable for its cultivation as a rain fed crop. If one or two winter rains are received, then root development improves. The crop requires a relatively dry season during its growing period. It can tolerate a temperature range of 20 to 38°C and as low a temperature as 10°C. The plant grows from sea level to an altitude of 1500 meters.