Ashwagandha has a role in ayurvedic medicine for a wide range of health conditions. Ashwagandha is purported as useful for relieving stress, fatigue, pain and gastrointestinal problems, and treating diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and epilepsy. Ashwagandha interacts with several types of prescription medicine, so consult your health care provider before taking this herbal remedy. • To date, promising studies on the health benefits of ashwagandha have mainly been in animals. • Pregnant women should avoid using ashwagandha because it can cause early delivery. • The herb may be beneficial for certain cancers, Alzheimer's, and anxiety, but more research is needed.