The botanical Withania somnifera is widely known as “Ashwagandha,” a Sanskrit name deriving from its use in traditional medicine in India. Withania somnifera (WS) enjoys a formidable reputation in Ayurvedic medicine as a Rasayana herb, i.e., one that can rejuvenate the body and promote the health of all tissues. Since ancient times, it has traditionally been used to strengthen the nervous system. [1] It is classified as a tonic-adaptogen and is often called the “Indian Ginseng,” although not botanically related. The paradoxical meaning of the names of ashwagandha gives away its’ adaptogenic qualities. The common name, “ashwagandha,” means “strong as a horse,” while the botanical name, “somnifera,” means restful sleep.[2]
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