The main aim of this review paper is to the review the literature regarding withania somnifera (ashwagandha). A commonly used herb in ayurvedic system. In this review updated information on it's pharmacological activities, such as antioxidant, antiparkinsonian, anti-inflammatory properties. Different other activities like antibacterial, cardiovascular protection have also been studied. Ashwaghandha is very beneficial herb of this indian ayurvedic system of medicine as a tonic (Rasayana). It is used for various kinds of disease process such as anxiolytic effects, cvs etc. In this review more informative information regarding to various diseases.