Ashwagandha is an evergreen shrub that grows in India the Middle East and parts of Africa. Its roots and orange-red fruit have been used for hundreds of years for medicinal purposes. The herb is also called Indian ginseng or winter cherry. The name ashwagandha describes the smell of its root (like a horse). By definition ashwa means horse. The herb is considered one of the most important herbs in the Ayurvedic medicine system a healthcare practice that started in India over 3000 years ago. Ayurvedic medicine uses herbs special diets and other natural practices as treatment for a variety of conditions. In Ayurvedic medicine ashwagandha is considered a Rasayana. That means it’s an herb that helps maintain youth both mentally and physically.