Enhancement in Growth and Yield of Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera (L.) Dunal) by Counteracting Effect of Infrared Supplemented with Ultraviolet-B Radiation

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L. ) Dunal), member of family Solanaceae, is one of the most important medicinal plants required in allopathic, ayuredic and unani system of medicines. The roots of ashwagandha possess health maintenance and restoration properties, similar to ginseng roots, hence known as Indian ginseng. The leaf is useful for inflammation, swelling and conjunctivitis. Bark decoction helps in asthama. Its extract has powerful protective effects on nervous system. Therefore ashwagandha is demanding in pharmaceutical market, so production is less than its consumption, therefore included in critically endangered species in Red Data book. Ozone depletion resulted in increased UV-B radiation, have desruptive effects on growth and development of flora but for short period at regular intervals it is beneficial, and IR radiation enhance the yield in plants. Since the plant growth is dynamic complex process and the solar radiation at different altitudes alter the growth, development and biosynthesis in plants. So looking at the view of high demand and sustainable use of natural wealth. Ashwagandha has much scope for wide cultivation. Since information on these aspects of ashwagandha is meagre. Therefore in present investigation counteracting effects of infrared and UV-B radiation on ashwagandha was undertaken to evaluate growth and yield of crop.