Also known as Indian ginseng, Winter cherry, Ajagandha, Kanji, Hindi and Samm Al Ferakh. Translated to Sanskrit, Ashwagandha  means "horse's smell", possibly originating from the odor of its root. The species name somnifera means "sleep-bearing" in Latin, and was considered a sedative, but it has been also used for sexual vitality and as an adaptogen.

Fruits, leaves and seeds of the plant have been traditionally used for the Ayurvedic system as aphrodisiacs, diuretics and for treating memory loss. The roots and berries of the plant are used in herbal medicine, on a nonspecific basis to increase health and longevity, normalize physiological function, and work on the HPA axis and neuro-endocrine system.

Seven American and four Japanese firms have filed for grant of patents on formulations containing extracts of the herb Ashwagandha. Ranging from skin ointment to promoting reproductive fertility.

The New England Deaconess Hospital, has taken a patent on an Ashwagandha formulation claimed to alleviate symptoms associated with arthritis. The U.S based company Natreon has also obtained a patent for an Ashwagandha extract.

Grows as a shrub that reaches a height of 170cm, bears yellow flowers, and red fruit, that are berry-like in size and shape.

Roots have been used as aphrodisiacs, diuretics and for treating memory loss. Also used to normalize physiological function, and work on the neuro-endocrine system.