ashwagandha
noun
ash·wa·gan·dha
| \ ˌä-shwə-ˈgän-də
\
\
variants:
or Ashwagandha
Medical Definition of ashwagandha
: a preparation usually of the leaves or roots of an evergreen shrub (Withania somnifera) native to Africa, Asia, and southern Europe that is used in herbal medicine especially as a tonic, anti-inflammatory, and adaptogen
While ashwagandha may be best known for its ability to soothe stress and anxiety, it also has a reputation as an invigorating tonic that counteracts various types of inflammation, including arthritis.— Brenda Adderly, Better Nutrition, September 2001