Withania
Withania, commonly known as Ashwagandha, is a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine. Often referred to as "Indian Ginseng," this powerful adaptogen helps the body manage stress, boosts energy, and enhances cognitive function. Renowned for its rejuvenating properties, it supports immunity and vitality, making it a vital herb in holistic healing.
- Scientific name: Withania
- Family: Solanaceae
- Native range: Europe
Taxonomical Classification
This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta within the class Equisetopsida. Following the subclass Magnoliidae, it is organized under the order Solanales and the family Solanaceae. Finally, it is identified by the specific genus Withania.
| Rank | Classification | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae | WCVP |
| Phylum | Streptophyta | WCVP |
| Class | Equisetopsida | WCVP |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae | WCVP |
| Order | Solanales | WCVP |
| Family | Solanaceae | WCVP |
| Genus | Withania | WCVP |
Distribution
This plant exhibits a specific distribution pattern across various regions of the Mediterranean. Within Southwestern Europe, it can be found in the Balearic Islands and throughout Portugal. Its presence is also documented in Spain and the island of Sardegna. Moving toward Southeastern Europe, the species extends its reach into Greece. Collectively, these locations highlight its preference for the southern European landscape.
| Region | Area | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Southwestern Europe | Baleares | WCVP |
| Southwestern Europe | Portugal | WCVP |
| Southwestern Europe | Sardegna | WCVP |
| Southwestern Europe | Spain | WCVP |
| Southeastern Europe | Greece | WCVP |
| Southeastern Europe | Kriti | WCVP |
| Southeastern Europe | Sicilia | WCVP |
| Northern Africa | Algeria | WCVP |
| Northern Africa | Egypt | WCVP |
| Northern Africa | Libya | WCVP |
Chemicals
Withania has 1 reported phytochemicals identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include withanolides.
- Total chemicals
- 1
- Scientific sources
- 1
Most Reported Compounds
| Compound | Sources | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| withanolides | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
Medicinal Uses
Withania has 1 reported medicinal uses identified across 2 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported uses include cancer.
- Total uses
- 1
- Scientific sources
- 2
Most Reported Uses
| Use | Sources | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| cancer | 2 | ★☆☆☆☆ |