Withania somnifera

Ashwagandha / Winter Cherry

Withania somnifera, known as ashwagandha, is a shrub native to North Africa, the Mediterranean, and South Asia. In North African traditional medicine — particularly in Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia — the root has been used as a sedative, anti-inflammatory, and tonic for nervous exhaustion. The Arabic name ‘habb el mufarrah’ translates to ‘the seed that brings joy’.

The root contains withanolides — steroidal lactones (primarily withaferin A and withanolide D) — that exhibit adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and anxiolytic properties. Modern clinical research supports ashwagandha’s effects on cortisol reduction, stress resilience, sleep quality, and cognitive function. It is classified as an adaptogen, helping the body resist physiological and psychological stress.

Chemical Constituents

Withaferin A, withanolide D, withanosides, sitoindosides, alkaloids (somniferine, tropine), flavonoids.

Dosage

Standardised extracts (2.5–5% withanolides): 300–600 mg daily. Traditional decoction: 3–6 g of dried root per cup, simmered for 15 minutes. Best taken with milk or fat for absorption.