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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 click on one of the blue links below 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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