withania somnifera,
known commonly as ashwagandha, is an evergreen shrub in the Solanaceae or nightshade family
that grows in India, Nepal, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. Several other species in the genus Withania are
morphologically similar. Other common names include Indian ginseng, poisonous gooseberry and winter cherry.
The plant, particularly its root powder, has been used for centuries in traditional Indian medicine. Ashwagandha
supplements, typically containing root or leaf powder or extracts, are commonly sold. Its use in herbal medicine and
dietary supplements notwithstanding, scientific evidence is insufficient to show that W. somnifera is safe or effective
for treating any health condition or disease.
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