Ashwagandha, or Withania somnifera, is a herb native to Asia and Africa. Also called “Indian ginseng,” it’s been used in traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years to ease pain and inflammation, treat insomnia, and boost nutrition, along with other conditions.

Ashwagandha is also considered an adaptogen. That means it helps your body better manage stress. Much of the research on ashwagandha’s benefits has been done on animals, so experts can’t say for sure how well it works. But here are some things this herbal supplement might help with.