Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an evergreen shrub in the Solanaceae family and one of the most beloved herbal adaptogens in Ayurvedic and Unani Medicine. Ashwaganda is a Hindi name meaning "horse's smell", and culturally refers not only to its strong pungent smell but also to give one the "strength of a horse". Due to its multifaceted gifts it has now become one of the most popular herbal plants in the world.
Ashwagandha is generally harvested for Its roots and can help bring balance to the endocrine system, increase energy and ameliorate stress among many other virtues. This is a must have plant to work with to promote wellness and will grow very well as an annual in northern climates.