Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera (L.) Dunal.: An Ancient Treasure of Taxonomy and Ethano-Botanical Uses

Abstract

Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal., commonly known as Ashwagandha, Indian ginseng, or winter cherry, belongs to the family (nightshade family) Solanaceae which has got 1250 species widely distributed in the warmer parts of the world. The genus Withania Pauquy is reported to have 23 species and out of which W. somnifera (L.) Dunal and W. coagulans Dunal are of high medicinal value. Various preparations and forms of W. somnifera (L.) Dunal (Ashwagandha) i.e. powder, decoction, oil, smoke etc. have been advised for the cure of various disorders such as intestinal affections, venereal diseases, skin disorders, nervous disorders, rheumatism, emaciation of children and as a tonic for all kinds of weakness and in geriatrics. It also promotes vigor and stamina and is regarded as aphrodisiac and rejuvenator. The plant is mainly erect, branched, unarmed shrub, up to 1.25 meters height and grows throughout the drier parts and sub-tropical India. Mainly cultivated in Rajasthan & Madhya Pradesh and it has huge internal consumption in India and also being exported.