Abstract

PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS AND THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF ASHWAGANDHA (WITHANIA SOMNIFERA)

Dr. Rashmi G. Ahirrao*, Dr. Suvarna R. Sonawane, Dr. Sanjay N. Lungare and Dr. Manjusha Pawar

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Abstract

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), also known as Indian ginseng, is a powerful adaptogenic herb widely used in Ayurveda. Its roots, leaves, and berries possess numerous therapeutic benefits. This article focuses on the phytochemical analysis of Ashwagandha, elucidating the active compounds responsible for its pharmacological properties. Modern techniques like High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) are increasingly employed to identify and quantify these bioactive constituents. This paper also highlights its therapeutic applications, particularly in stress management, neuroprotection, and immune modulation, making Ashwagandha a subject of extensive research in integrative medicine.[1,2]

Keywords: Ashwagandha, Withania somnifera, Withanolides, Phytochemical analysis, HPLC, GC-MS, Adaptogen, Neuroprotection, Immunomodulation.