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Withania somnifera
Ashwagandha
Evergreen shrub
(1 Page of 5)

 
The Withania somnifera plant species is found in Australia, E. Asia, Africa. It is a member of the Solanaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Ashwagandha.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses
 
Latin Name:  Withania somnifera
Common Name:  Ashwagandha
Family:  Solanaceae
Author:  (L.)Dunal.
 
Known Hazards:  The plant is toxic if eaten[238].
 
Mature Height:  1   Mature Width:  0.5
 
Habitat:  Open places, disturbed areas etc[192]. An undershrub in stony places[238].



Medicinal Information:  Ashwagandha is one of the most widespread tranquilisers used in India, where it holds a position of importance similar to ginseng in China[238]. It acts mainly on the reproductive and nervous systems, having a rejunative effect on the body, and is used to improve vitality and aid recovery after chronic illness[238, 254]. The plant is little known in the West[192]. The whole plant, but especially the leaves and the root bark, are abortifacient, adaptogen, antibiotic, aphrodisiac, deobstruent, diuretic, narcotic, strongly sedative and tonic[169, 192, 238, 240]. Internally, it is used to tone the uterus after a miscarriage and also in treating post-partum difficulties[192]. It is also used to treat nervous exhaustion, debility, insomnia, wasting diseases, failure to thrive in children, impotence, infertility, multiple sclerosis etc[238]. Externally it has been applied as a poultice to boils, swellings and other painful parts[192, 240]. The root is harvested in the autumn and dried for later use[238]. Some caution is advised in the use of this plant since it is toxic[K]. The fruit is diuretic[240]. The seed is diuretic and hypnotic[240].

For further Withania somnifera gardening information
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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses
 

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
View their bibliography
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