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Ashwagandha अश्वगंधा

Withania somnifera

Ram Tulsi (राम तुलसी), Ocimum basilicum
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Hindi
अश्वगंधा
Botanical
Withania somnifera
Family
Solanaceae

About the plant

Drought-tolerant root herb for a hot sunny corner; needs almost nothing once established.

Growing it

Sandy, free-draining soil. Do not enrich it.

What it is for

Root dried and powdered by tradition; tolerates neglect.

How to grow

Sunlight
Full sun
Water
Sparingly — overwatering rots the root
Season
Jun–Jul
Grows in
Garden / ground, Terrace / rooftop
Mature size
60–120 cm
First harvest
Roots after 150–180 days

Sandy, free-draining soil. Do not enrich it.

Traditional uses

Traditionally used — recorded as tradition, not as established effect. The two registers below are kept separate on purpose.

Traditional knowledge

Root dried and powdered by tradition; tolerates neglect.

Scientific evidence

This record has not yet assessed the research on these uses. Absence of an assessment here is not evidence either way.

Important: Traditional plant use does not replace professional medical advice. Do not treat a condition on the strength of this page — speak to a doctor.

Ecological value

Where it grows in India

Review
Not yet reviewed by a named specialist
Published