Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) has been traditionally used in Ayurveda as an adaptogen and general tonic, and it has a long-standing reputation in Indian traditional medicine for supporting immune health and convalescence from various illnesses, including Tuberculosis (TB). Historical Ayurvedic texts mention ashwagandha as a "rasayana" or rejuvenator, recommended for conditions marked by wasting, debility, and chronic infections—symptoms often seen in TB patients. Its use in TB likely stems from its traditional roles in enhancing vitality, improving appetite, and aiding recovery rather than directly treating the infection itself.

Scientifically, there is limited direct evidence supporting ashwagandha as a treatment for TB. Some preclinical studies suggest that ashwagandha may boost certain aspects of immune function and possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which could theoretically benefit patients with chronic infections. However, there is a lack of robust clinical trials demonstrating efficacy against Mycobacterium tuberculosis or showing significant improvement in TB outcomes when ashwagandha is used alongside conventional therapy. Most references to its use in TB are therefore grounded in traditional practice rather than modern scientific validation. In summary, ashwagandha's role in TB is primarily as a supportive agent in traditional systems, not as a primary anti-tubercular treatment.