Abstract

ASHWAGANDHA WITHANIA SOMNIFERA (L) DUNAL A GIFTED NUTRITION BOOSTER

Dr. Md. Wasiullah, Piyush Yadav*, Gaurav Pal and Om Prakash Maurya

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Abstract

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a well known herb possessing several health benefits and a commonly used Ayurvedic medicine. Although the review article on this plant is already published, but this review article is presented to compile all the updated and interrelated information related to their nutritional values as antioxidant and memory enhancing property. The steroidal lactones (withanolides) obtained from its roots have been implicated in a wide range of therapeutic activities and maintaining general health. Immunomodulation, combating infectious agents, anti-cancer and antiepileptic, memory enhancer, to promote good physical and mental health, mood elevator, diuretic, general tonic and rejuvenator, stress reliever, cardiorespiratory endurance enhancer, anti-ageing, anti-oxidant, hypoglycemic, hypocholesterolaemia and in common an effective adaptogen. Thus the plant is an important component of many polyherbal preparations. The reviewed herb is safe and further research is required to examine efficacy and safety. Clinical trials should also be conducted for a variety of conditions.

Keywords: Ashwagandha, Indian ginseng, Ayurveda, health beneficial application, Rasayana, Immunity, health, nutrition, Immunodulatory effects, antioxidant goods.