About this ingredient
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an evergreen botanical traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Unani medicine. It is also known as Indian ginseng and winter cherry, although it is not botanically related to true ginseng. Ashwagandha preparations commonly contain root or root-and-leaf extracts and naturally occurring compounds called withanolides.
Modern research has investigated Ashwagandha primarily for stress, anxiety, sleep and certain aspects of reproductive health. NIH sources report that some preparations may help reduce perceived stress and improve sleep, although studies have generally been relatively small and have used different extracts and preparations. Evidence for other marketed uses remains limited or unclear.
Ashwagandha is therefore commonly included in stress-support, sleep, relaxation and general wellness supplement formulations.