Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is one of the most highly respected adaptogenic tonifiers of the 5,000-year-old Ayurvedic herbal tradition of India. Adaptogens are a class of substances said to Enhance the body adapt to physiological and psychological stresses and changes. In this regard, ashwagandha is often compared with Asian Panax Ginseng. Planetary Herbals formulator Michael Tierra, L.Ac., was instrumental in bringing this key botanical to the United States.