Showing papers on "Withania somnifera published in 2023"

Biodiversity, Biochemical Profiling, and Pharmaco-Commercial Applications of Withania somnifera: A Review

Abstract: Withania somnifera L. Dunal (Ashwagandha), a key medicinal plant native to India, is used globally to manage various ailments. This review focuses on the traditional uses, botany, phytochemistry, and pharmacological advances of its plant-derived constituents. It has been reported that at least 62 crucial and 48 inferior primary and secondary metabolites are present in the W. somnifera leaves, and 29 among these found in its roots and leaves are chiefly steroidal compounds, steroidal lactones, alkaloids, amino acids, etc. In addition, the whole shrub parts possess various medicinal activities such as anti-leukotriene, antineoplastic, analgesic, anti-oxidant, immunostimulatory, and rejuvenating properties, mainly observed by in vitro demonstration. However, the course of its medical use remains unknown. This review provides a comprehensive understanding of W. somnifera, which will be useful for mechanism studies and potential medical applications of W. somnifera, as well as for the development of a rational quality control system for W. somnifera as a therapeutic material in the future.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)—Current Research on the Health-Promoting Activities: A Narrative Review

Abstract: In recent years, there has been a significant surge in reports on the health-promoting benefits of winter cherry (Withania somnifera), also known as Ashwagandha. Its current research covers many aspects of human health, including neuroprotective, sedative and adaptogenic effects and effects on sleep. There are also reports of anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, cardioprotective and anti-diabetic properties. Furthermore, there are reports of reproductive outcomes and tarcicidal hormone action. This growing body of research on Ashwagandha highlights its potential as a valuable natural remedy for many health concerns. This narrative review delves into the most recent findings and provides a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of ashwagandha’s potential uses and any known safety concerns and contraindications.

In Silico Study on the Interactions, Molecular Docking, Dynamics and Simulation of Potential Compounds from Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal Root against Cancer by Targeting KAT6A

Abstract: Cancer is characterized by the abnormal development of cells that divide in an uncontrolled manner and further take over the body and destroy the normal cells of the body. Although several therapies are practiced, the demand and need for new therapeutic agents are ever-increasing because of issues with the safety, efficacy and efficiency of old drugs. Several plant-based therapeutics are being used for treatment, either as conjugates with existing drugs or as standalone formulations. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal is a highly studied medicinal plant which is known to possess immunomodulatory activity as well as anticancer properties. The pivotal role of KAT6A in major cellular pathways and its oncogenic nature make it an important target in cancer treatment. Based on the literature and curated datasets, twenty-six compounds from the root of W. somnifera and a standard inhibitor were docked with the target KAT6A using Autodock vina. The compounds and the inhibitor complexes were subjected to molecular dynamics simulation (50 ns) using Desmond to understand the stability and interactions. The top compounds (based on the docking score of less than −8.5 kcal/mol) were evaluated in comparison to the inhibitor. Based on interactions at ARG655, LEU686, GLN760, ARG660, LEU689 and LYS763 amino acids with the inhibitor WM-8014, the compounds from W. somnifera were evaluated. Withanolide D, Withasomniferol C, Withanolide E, 27-Hydroxywithanone, Withanolide G, Withasomniferol B and Sitoindoside IX showed high stability with the residues of interest. The cell viability of human breast cancer MCF-7 cells was evaluated by treating them with W. Somnifera root extract using an MTT assay, which showed inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 45 µg/mL. The data from the study support the traditional practice of W. somnifera as an anticancer herb.

Pharmacological potential of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal and Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers on the experimental models of COVID-19, T cell differentiation, and neutrophil functions

Abstract: Cytokine release syndrome (CRS) due to severe acute respiratory coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection leads to life-threatening pneumonia which has been associated with coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pathologies. Centuries-old Asian traditional medicines such as Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (WS) and Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers (TC) possess potent immunomodulatory effects and were used by the AYUSH ministry, in India during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the present study, we investigated WS and TC’s anti-viral and immunomodulatory efficacy at the human equivalent doses using suitable in vitro and in vivo models. While both WS and TC showed immuno-modulatory potential, WS showed robust protection against loss in body weight, viral load, and pulmonary pathology in the hamster model of SARS-CoV2. In vitro pretreatment of mice and human neutrophils with WS and TC had no adverse effect on PMA, calcium ionophore, and TRLM-induced ROS generation, phagocytosis, bactericidal activity, and NETs formation. Interestingly, WS significantly suppressed the pro-inflammatory cytokines-induced Th1, Th2, and Th17 differentiation. We also used hACE2 transgenic mice to further investigate the efficacy of WS against acute SARS-CoV2 infection. Prophylactic treatment of WS in the hACE2 mice model showed significant protection against body weight loss, inflammation, and the lung viral load. The results obtained indicate that WS promoted the immunosuppressive environment in the hamster and hACE2 transgenic mice models and limited the worsening of the disease by reducing inflammation, suggesting that WS might be useful against other acute viral infections. The present study thus provides pre-clinical efficacy data to demonstrate a robust protective effect of WS against COVID-19 through its broader immunomodulatory activity

Alkaloids in Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal Root Extract Contribute to Its Anti-Inflammatory Activity

Abstract: The anti-inflammatory properties of the medicinal plant Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (WS) are generally related to withanolides; consistently, several strategies are under investigation to increase the concentration of these compounds in WS extracts. However, a potential toxicity of withanolides has been highlighted, thus questioning the safety of such preparations. At variance, the relative contribution of alkaloids is underrated, in spite of preliminary evidence underlining a possible pharmacological relevance. Starting from these considerations, the efficacy/safety profile of WS root extract (WSE) was compared with those of WS extracts which are enriched in alkaloids (WSA) and withanolides (WSW), respectively. MTT assay was used to evaluate cell viability. The anti-inflammatory activities of the different extracts were estimated throughout the assessment of the inhibition of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated release of nitric oxide (NO) and the upregulation of iNOS and COX-2 protein in RAW 264.7 cells. Both WSA and WSW were able to reduce LPS-mediated effects in RAW 264.7 cells, suggesting that alkaloids and withanolides may contribute to the anti-inflammatory activity of WSE. A significant higher anti-inflammatory activity and a lower toxicity were observed when WSA was compared to WSW. The present results highlighted that the contribution of alkaloids to WS pharmacological effects should not be neglected. Particularly, these compounds may concur to reach a more advantageous efficacy/safety profile when WS is used for anti-inflammatory purposes.

Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles with Extract of Indian Ginseng and In Vitro Inhibitory Activity against Infectious Bursal Disease Virus Thereof

Abstract: Infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) is a serious poultry pathogen responsible for causing major economic losses to the poultry industry globally. The virus is closely related to several other important viral pathogens of fishes, crabs, and mollusks and evolutionarily related to important viral pathogens of humans. Previously, we demonstrated the inhibition of this virus by the extracts of roots of Withania somnifera Dunal, commonly known as Indian ginseng, both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, many studies reported the inhibition of diverse types of viruses by nanoparticles of silver. In the present study, we investigated the inhibitory effect of silver nanoparticles obtained by green synthesized with Indian ginseng extract against IBDV. Conditions for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles were optimized, and the nanoparticles thus obtained (WS AgNPs) were characterized physically. Thereafter, the maximum non-cytotoxic dose of these nanoparticles for treating chicken embryo fibroblasts (CEF) was determined. Treatment of IBDV-infected CEF with the WS AgNPs decreased the infective virus titer by >93%, intracellular viral load by >71%, and virus-induced cytopathy by >51%, demonstrating the strong inhibitory effect of the WS AgNPs against IBDV, and encouraging similar applications against related veterinary and human viruses.

The immunomodulatory role of withania somnifera (L.) dunal in inflammatory diseases

Abstract: Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Solanaceae) (also known as Ashwagandha) is a botanical drug that has been used for centuries to treat many chronic diseases like high blood pressure, arthritis, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and depression. As many botanical drugs, w. Somnifera possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticarinogenic, anti-diabetic, and anti-asthmatic properties. W. somnifera is often compared to the ginseng plant due to its ability to reduce stress, improve cognitive functions (e.g., memory), and promote a healthy immune system. It promotes immunomodulatory effects whose function is to balance the humoral and cellular responses of the adaptive immune system. The therapeutic effect of w. Somnifera is attributed to active ingredients like alkaloids, steroidal lactones (such as withanolides, withaferins), and steroidal saponins. Although w. Somnifera is safe and highly recommended for treating various diseases, the current knowledge and understanding of its operational mechanisms are limited. One of the proposed mechanisms states that w. Somnifera promotes cellular-mediated immunity or initiates chemical interactions that contribute to therapeutic effects. Withania somnifera has been shown to play a significant role in immunological diseases by modulating several cytokines, increasing T-cell proliferation and enhancing macrophages functions. In this review, we will discuss the latest therapeutic effects of w. Somnifera on a number of diseases through modulating immunological markers and which specific components of w. Somnifera induce these therapeutic activities. We will also focus on the chemical properties in w. Somnifera components and their immunomodulatory role in type 2 allergic diseases where type 2 inflammation is highly imbalanced.

Withaferin A: A Pleiotropic Anticancer Agent from the Indian Medicinal Plant Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal

Abstract: Cancer represents the second most deadly disease and one of the most important public health concerns worldwide. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immune therapy are the major types of treatment strategies that have been implemented in cancer treatment. Unfortunately, these treatment options suffer from major limitations, such as drug-resistance and adverse effects, which may eventually result in disease recurrence. Many phytochemicals have been investigated for their antitumor efficacy in preclinical models and clinical studies to discover newer therapeutic agents with fewer adverse effects. Withaferin A, a natural bioactive molecule isolated from the Indian medicinal plant Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, has been reported to impart anticancer activities against various cancer cell lines and preclinical cancer models by modulating the expression and activity of different oncogenic proteins. In this article, we have comprehensively discussed the biosynthesis of withaferin A as well as its antineoplastic activities and mode-of-action in in vitro and in vivo settings. We have also reviewed the effect of withaferin A on the expression of miRNAs, its combinational effect with other cytotoxic agents, withaferin A-based formulations, safety and toxicity profiles, and its clinical potential.

Evaluation of Green Synthesis (Withania somnifera) of Selenium Nanoparticles to Reduce Sperm DNA Fragmentation Diabetic Mice Induced with Streptozotocin

Abstract: Given the promising good future of selenium nanoparticles in the modern field of health, selenium nanoparticles have played an important role in increasing sperm efficacy and antioxidant defense mechanisms. In the present study, we synthesized the selenium nanoparticles (Se NPs) in a safe and harmless medical manner from the aqueous extract of Withania Somnifera roots. The formation of Se NPs was confirmed using different techniques of spectroscopy. The results showed a broad absorption peak of up to 622 nm of wavelength. With clumps of NPs forming what looks like a porous structure, excellent uniform spherical shape of Se NPs and distribution behavior with the least aggregation, it appears as an average single particle size of around 22 nm. Secondly, we evaluated their potential improvement functions on the antioxidant enzyme and DNA damage of sperm induced by STZ-induced diabetes in mice. Additionally, antioxidant drugs and natural male cell therapy were also studied. Fifty male experimental mice with an average weight (23–30 kg) were divided into five groups and fed once daily with IP, streptozotocin, metformin, streptozotocin with Se NPs and later streptozotocin with Se NPs for 35 days. Se NPs treatment increased antioxidant enzyme activities and improved sperm quality in STZ-induced diabetic mice by stabilizing the level of reactive oxygen species. Green synthesis appears to be a safe method for producing selenium nanoparticles, and Se NPs are more beneficial than inorganic and organic selenium.

In silico analysis and molecular docking studies of natural compounds of Withania somnifera against bovine NLRP9

Abstract: NLRP9 is a member of nucleotide-binding domain leucine-rich repeat-containing receptors and is found to be associated with many inflammatory diseases. In the current scenario, the identification of promising anti-inflammatory compounds from natural sources by repurposing approach is still relevant for the early prevention and effective management of the disease.In the present study, we docked bioactives of Ashwagandha (Withanoside IV, Withanoside V, Withanolide A, Withanolide B, and Sitoindoside IX) and two control drugs against bovine NLRP9 protein. ADME/T analysis was used to determine the physiochemical properties of compounds and standard drugs. Molecular modeling was used to evaluate the correctness and quality of protein structures. In silico docking analysis revealed Withanolide B had the highest binding affinity score of -10.5 kcal/mol, whereas, among control drugs, doxycycline hydrochloride was most effective (-10.3 kcal/mol). The results of this study revealed that bioactives of Withania somnifera could be promising inhibitors against bovine NLRP9. In the present study, molecular simulation was used to measure protein conformational changes over time. The Rg value was found to be 34.77A°. RMSD and B-factor were also estimated to provide insights into the flexibility and mobile regions of protein structure. A functional protein network interaction was constructed from information collected from non-curative sources as protein-protein interactions (PPI) that play an important role in determining the function of the target protein and the ability of the drug molecule. Thus, in the present situation, it is important to identify bioactives with the potential to combat inflammatory diseases and provide strength and immunity to the host. However, there is still a need to study in vitro and in vivo to further support these findings.

Withania somnifera L.: Phenolic Compounds Composition and Biological Activity of Commercial Samples and Its Aqueous and Hydromethanolic Extracts

Abstract: In the present study, the chemical composition and bioactive properties of commercially available Withania somnifera samples were evaluated. The hydromethanolic and aqueous extracts of the tested samples were analyzed in terms of phenolic compound composition, ascorbic acid content, antioxidant and antibacterial activity, and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibitory activities. Polyphenols and ascorbic acid content, as well as the antioxidant activity, were higher in the aqueous extracts than in the hydromethanolic extracts. Generally, aqueous extracts presented higher antioxidant activity than the hydromethanolic ones, especially in the case of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) assay. Moreover, higher amounts of phenolic acids and flavonoids were found in the hydromethanolic extracts compared to the aqueous ones. Regarding the antibacterial properties, samples 4, 6, and 10 showed the best overall performance with growth-inhibitory activities against all the examined bacteria strains. Finally, the aqueous and hydromethanolic extracts were the most efficient extracts in terms of AChE and BChE inhibitory activities, respectively. In conclusion, our results indicate that W. somnifera possesses important bioactive properties which could be attributed to the high amounts of phenolic compounds. However, a great variability was recorded in commercially available products, suggesting significant differences in the origin of product and the processing method.

A Comprehensive Scientific Claims on Ethnobotany, Phytochemical Pharmacological and Toxicology of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal

Abstract: For more than 3,000 years, Withania somnifera, commonly known as Ashwagandha, has been utilised in traditional and Ayurvedic medicine. It belongs to the ginger family. Dry powder, crude extract, and refined metabolites of the plant have all demonstrated potential therapeutic advantages in animal trials because it is a medicinal plant. Withanolides are the primary metabolites of the plant, and they are responsible for the therapeutic effects of the herb. Despite the fact that other review papers on this plant have previously been published, this review article is being provided in order to gather all of based on the most recent data on its pharmacological and phytochemical effects, which have been investigated using a variety of approaches. According to research, Ashwagandha has anti-inflammatory, adaptogen, anti-parkinsonian, anti-oxidant, and memory-boosting properties, and anticancer effects in addition to other benefits. Other effects, such as immunomodulation, hypolipidemia, antimicrobial activity, Investigations have also been done on cardiovascular defence, sexual behaviour, tolerance, and reliance. These outcomes are extremely encouraging, and they recommend more research into this herb to confirm these results and find further potential medicinal characteristics. Clinical studies including the use of ashwagandha for a number of illnesses should be carried out as well. The new evidence on its pharmacological and phytochemical activities is described in the current publication. In order to give thorough information on the ethnobotany, traditional applications, phytochemistry, and pharmacological efficacy of the medicinal plant, W. somnifera, from reliable sources, the present review has primary objectives. Keywords: Withania somnifera, Solanaceae, traditional claim, ethnobotany, phytochemistry, phytopharmacology

Chemical, microbial and safety profiling of a standardized Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) extract and Withaferin A, a potent novel phytotherapeutic of the millennium

Abstract: Background:Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, popularly known as Ashwagandha, is an ethnomedicinal plant with multiple pharmacotherapeutic applications. The diverse medicinal properties of the plant are largely due to the presence of withanolides, a group of C28 ergostane based steroidal lactones, with several sites of unsaturation and oxygenation. Withaferin A, a major with anolide present in Ashwagandha plant accounts for its emerging new roles to treat cancer, arthritis, inflammatory responses, immunomodulatory properties, and neuronal disorders. The root and leaf extracts are specifically important constituent materials for the development of phytotherapeutics, mostly intended for oral consumption. Several studies have been carried out to delineate the toxic manifestations of the extract for human consumption.Objective:Establish the broad-spectrum safety of W-ferinAmax ashwagandha (WFA).Study: This investigation demonstrated a novel, standardized W-ferinAmax ashwagandha (WFA) extraction technology from the whole herb of Withania sominfera, conducted HPLC analysis to identify the constituents, detected the heavy metals, microbiological contaminants, pesticides contaminants, and safety profile.Results:A novel extraction technology was employed to obtain WFA from the whole plant of Withania sominfera. HPLC analysis revealed that WFA contains a total of 15.4% Withanolides. In particular, Withaferin A, Withanoside IV, and Withanolide A contents were 6.469%, 1.022%, and 0.073%, respectively. The extract contained only 0.403 ppm of heavy metals out of which traces of arsenic, mercury and lead were detected, and cadmium was absent. USP recommended 80 residue basic pesticide screen indicated that the extraction was safe for human consumption. It was also found to be free from pathogenic microbes as assessed by the absence of E. coli and other coliforms, Salmonella and Staphylococcus species.Conclusion: The data generated cumulatively indicated that WFA is safe for further downstream processing to and for human consumption.Keywords: Ashwagandha, Withaferin A, phytotherapeutics, material safety; heavy metals; pesticides

Nootropic Herbs, Shrubs, and Trees as Potential Cognitive Enhancers

Abstract: Plant-based nootropics are a diverse group of natural drugs that can improve cognitive abilities through various physiological mechanisms, especially in cases where these functions are weakened or impaired. In many cases, the nootropics enhance erythrocyte plasticity and inhibit aggregation, which improves the blood’s rheological properties and increases its flow to the brain. Many of these formulations possess antioxidant activity that protects brain tissue from neurotoxicity and improves the brain’s oxygen supply. They can induce the synthesis of neuronal proteins, nucleic acids, and phospholipids for constructing and repairing neurohormonal membranes. These natural compounds can potentially be present in a great variety of herbs, shrubs, and even some trees and vines. The plant species reviewed here were selected based on the availability of verifiable experimental data and clinical trials investigating potential nootropic effects. Original research articles, relevant animal studies, meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and clinical trials were included in this review. Selected representatives of this heterogeneous group included Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst., Centella asiatica (L.) Urban, Eleutherococcus senticosus (Rupr. & Maxim.) Maxim., Ginkgo biloba L., Lepidium meyenii Walp., Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer, Paullinia cupana Kunth, Rhodiola rosea L., Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill., and Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal. The species are depicted and described, together with their active components and nootropic effects, and evidence of their efficacy is presented. The study provides brief descriptions of the representative species, their occurrence, history, and the chemical composition of the principle medicinal compounds, with uses, indications, experimental treatments, dosages, possible side effects, and contraindications. Most plant nootropics must be taken at optimal doses for extended periods before measurable improvement occurs, but they are generally very well tolerated. Their psychoactive properties are not produced by a single molecule but by a synergistic combination of several compounds. The available data suggest that including extracts from these plants in medicinal products to treat cognitive disorders can have substantial potential therapeutic benefits.

Identification of Potential Leishmania N-Myristoyltransferase Inhibitors from Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal: A Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamics Investigation

Abstract: Leishmaniasis is a group of infectious diseases caused by Leishmania protozoa. The ineffectiveness, high toxicity, and/or parasite resistance of the currently available antileishmanial drugs has created an urgent need for safe and effective leishmaniasis treatment. Currently, the molecular-docking technique is used to predict the proper conformations of small-molecule ligands and the strength of the contact between a protein and a ligand, and the majority of research for the development of new drugs is centered on this type of prediction. Leishmania N-myristoyltransferase (NMT) has been shown to be a reliable therapeutic target for investigating new anti-leishmanial molecules through this kind of virtual screening. Natural products provide an incredible source of affordable chemical scaffolds that serve in the development of effective drugs. Withania somnifera leaves, roots, and fruits have been shown to contain withanolide and other phytomolecules that are efficient anti-protozoal agents against Malaria, Trypanosoma, and Leishmania spp. Through a review of previously reported compounds from W. somnifera-afforded 35 alkaloid, phenolic, and steroid compounds and 132 withanolides/derivatives, typical of the Withania genus. These compounds were subjected to molecular docking screening and molecular dynamics against L. major NMT. Calycopteretin-3-rutinoside and withanoside IX showed the highest affinity and binding stability to L. major NMT, implying that these compounds could be used as antileishmanial drugs and/or as a scaffold for the design of related parasite NMT inhibitors with markedly enhanced binding affinity.

Withania somnifera Fruit Extract is Effective in Controlling Microbial Growth and Lipid Oxidation and Improves the Functional Value of Cheese

Abstract: Withania somnifera is a plant well known for its antioxidant, antimicrobial and medicinal properties and has been widely used for these benefits. W. somnifera fruit extract was used to improve the functional value and storage stability of cheese using kalari, a popular Himalayan cheese, as a food-model system. Different levels (0.0-0.7%) of the extract were used for preparing the cheese and an optimum level of 0.5% (T0.5) was found. The cheese samples (T0.5 and control) were evaluated for various storage-stability parameters during 4 weeks of refrigerated storage (4±1°C). The functional value of the product (T0.5) was evaluated in oxidative-stress-induced rats in 4 weeks feeding trial. The addition of the extract (T0.5) significantly (P<0.05) improved the lipid-oxidative and microbial-stability of the treated samples and also improved sensory quality at the end of the storage period. Inclusion of the extract-enriched cheese in the rats’ feed ameliorated the impact of oxidative stress on the Wistar rats and showed a significant decrease in liver marker enzymes, lipid-peroxidase activity and relative liver and spleen weights whereas a significant increase was observed in endogenous antioxidant enzymes levels and body weight. Thus, the addition of the extract improved the storage stability and functionality of the cheese.

Can Traditional Treatment Such as Ashwagandha Be Beneficial in Treating Depression?

Abstract: This study provides a path for many studies that may have been forgotten in the past to the use of modern-day knowledge supporting the use of traditional treatments, specifically Withania somnifera (ashwagandha).The primary objective of this study was to bring back traditional therapy that could prove to be economically beneficial and possibly helpful to many clients with depression with few or no associated adverse events.The key components of ashwagandha include 12 alkaloids and 35 withanolides, which have been proven in various studies to be beneficial in the treatment of anxiety and stress. While research supports that withanolides and alkaloides work as antidepressants and are the main reason ashwagandha is beneficial for depression, the mechanism of action in unknown. Studies also show that withanolides may bolster the immune system, increase stamina, fight inflammation and infection, combat tumors, reduce stress, revive the libido, protect the liver and soothe jangled nerves. Both of these molecules are steroidal and are similar in action and appearance. Ashwagandha stimulates the activation of immune system cells such as lymphocytes and has also been shown to inhibit inflammation and improve memory in animal experiments.

Assessment of Antimicrobial Activity of Commercially available Withania Somnifera (Ashwagandha) Powder against Pathogenic microorganisms

Abstract: Withania somnifera L (or Ashwagandha or Indian ginseng) is a sub-tropical medicinal plant of Solanaceae family that is used by folk healers for multipurpose ailments in alternative system of treatment. It serves as bioactive ingredient in more than 100 ayurvedic formulations of Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani medication. The ethnopharmacological application of Ashwagandha includes adaptogenic, anti-convulsion, anti-microbial anti-sedative, anti-stress, arthritis, geriatric debilities, mental disorders, and neurological disorders. The present study included validation of antimicrobial properties of commercially available W. Somnifera powder against human pathogens viz., P. aeruginosa (gram -ve), S. aureus (gram +ve), and E. coli (gram -ve). The experimental results exhibited that chloroform, isopropanol, and distilled water extract of W. somnifera showed significant antibacterial action, 15.5 mm, 20.5 mm, and 27 mm clear zones (in radius) against P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, and E. coli respectively. The prospects of Ashwagandha powder could be its applicability as a folklore pharmacological agent and by means of a harmless routine dietary supplement to boost immunity and prevent bacterial infection.

Phytochemical analysis of Withania somnifera leaf extracts by GC-MS and evaluating antioxidants and antibacterial activities

Abstract: Many people in developing countries mainly depend on medicinal plants like Withania somnifera and their products for healthcare. In this study, reflux and maceration extraction methods were applied to investigate total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid contents (TFC); and antioxidant properties of Withania somnifera extracts toward DPPH and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) were studied. Highest TPC was detected with methanol extracts with value of 198.24 ± 1.16 mg GAE/g and TFC of 31.52 ± 0.91 mg QE/g. The minimum amount of TPC was observed in aqueous extract (101.41 ± 1.07 mg GAE/g) and the TFC in ethyl acetate extract 9.72 ± 1.32 mg QE/g. The maximum value of DPPH radical scavenging was estimated in maceration methanol extract 81.98 ± 0.49% and value of H2O2 was obtained in maceration acetone extract 76.18 ± 1.06%. The major identified molecules were Heptasiloxane,1,1,3,3,5,5,7,7,9,9,11,11,13,13-tetradecamethyl-(50.04%), and trans-2,4 Dimethylthiane, S, S- dioxide (4.09%) The broad spectrum of antibacterial activity was observed in Escherichia coli reflux methanol extract. In both extraction techniques methanol was the best extracting solvent for phenolic and flavonoid contents as antioxidants as well as antibacterial activities.

Major biochemical constituents of Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) extract: A review of chemical analysis

Abstract: Abstract Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a very popular medicinal herb originated mainly in India and found in the Middle East and parts of Africa. Ashwagandha has gained recognition as the most revered plant in Ayurvedic medicine. Studies indicated that it is used as anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, adaptogen, memory enhancer, and possess an effect on neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, it was revealed that the plant exerts antibacterial, antiviral, antitumor, aphrodisiac, and cardiovascular protection activities. Due to the biological and nutritional importance of nutraceuticals, particularly ashwagandha, and as part of the ongoing research of the natural products and its bioactive phytochemicals, this review aims to summarize the recent analytical techniques that have been reported for the determination of different chemical constituents of Withania somnifera quantitatively and qualitatively, and to highlight new challenges.

Development and characterization of plant oil-based potent anticholinesterase microemulsion containing withania somnifera extract with enhanced transdermal delivery of phytoconstituents for the treatment of cognitive disorders

Abstract: Objective: This work was carried out to develop Cymbopogan Citratus (lemon grass)oil based microemulsion formulation loaded with the extract of Withania somnifera which possess enhanced transdermal delivery of phytoconstituents with anticholinesterase activity useful in treating Alzheimer’s disease. Methods: Methanolic extract of Withania somnifera roots were prepared and it was investigated for the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity by Ellman’s assay. Based on the acetylcholinesterase activity, the specific amount of extract was loaded on to the microemulsion formulation. The Cymbopogan Citratus oil, tween 20, ethanol was used as oil phase, surfactant, and cosurfactant, respectively, for the preparation of microemulsion. Pseudo ternary phase diagram was constructed using a water titration method. The microemulsion formulations were characterized for droplet size, PDI, zeta potential and drug content. The optimized formulation was subjected to in vitro drug release and permeation studies and compared with the extract. Results: IC50 value of ashwagandha extract for anticholinesterase activity was found to be 68.73 µg/ml. The optimized microemulsion formulation had droplet size of 199.9±0.3 nm with PDI 0.029±0.2, zeta potential of-19.49±0.7mv and drug content was found to be 97.5±1.3%. The optimized microemulsion formulation showed 85±1.02% release of withaferin A after 24 h of in vitro drug release study. The prepared microemulsion loaded with ashwagandha extract showed excellent permeation of withaferin A(1.4µg/cm2/min) than the flux obtained from extract solution (0.7µg/cm2/min). Conclusion: Optimised microemulsion formulation is suitable for transdermal delivery of anticholinesterase phytoconstituents from ashwagandha extract hence useful in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease

Plants, phytochemicals, and natural practices in complementary and alternative system of medicine for treatment of central nervous system disorders

Abstract: Complementary and alternative system of medicine has been at the center of drug discovery for different CNS disorders. Medicinal plants have been in use in healthcare settings and have interestingly fostered the leads for drug development aimed at treating various diseases such as CND disorders, malaria, mycetoma, and inflammation. Electroacupuncture (EA) has the ability to protect prolonged restraint stress, attenuate depressions, and manage few CNS disorders. Bacopa monnieri, Rhodiola rosea, Centella asiatica, Cannabis sativa, Curcuma longa, Cyperus rotundus, Morinda citrifolia, and Withania somnifera are among the most common plants used for treating CNS disorder. Bioactive compounds such as valtrate, curcumin, cannabinoids, apomorphine, pergolide, benzatropine, β-asarone, α-Asarone have been used to treat various CNS disorders, such as addiction, insomnia, depression, Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, vitiligo, Parkinson’s disease. These complementary and alternative system of medicines have promising lead in the quest to develop more drugs for CNS disorders.

Combining ability studies under the different environmental conditions for root yield traits and total alkaloid content in Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera L.)

Abstract: The investigation was carried with 65 genotypes of Ashwagandha in three different environments to get information on combining ability for root yield at harvest, yield attributing traits and total alkaloid content. The analysis of variance indicated that experimental material contained considerable variability, furthermore the expression of both GCA as well as SCA was highly influenced by the environment. Based on the study five parental lines viz., L9, L5, L14, L15 and L8 along with tester T3 were reported as good general combiners for root yield and total alkaloid content over the environments. Among the crosses 10 hybrids and 22 hybrids were found useful specific combiner for root yield at harvest and total alkaloid content, respectively on pooled basis due to significant desirable SCA effects across the environments. Hence the above-selected genotypes may be useful for further exploitation in breeding programme of ashwagandha. Keywords: Ashwagandha, Combining ability, Environments, Root yield, Alkaloid.