Abstract

AN OVERVIEW ON ASHWAGANDHA (WITHANIA SOMNIFERA LINN.) WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO AYURVEDIC AND MODERN ASPECT

Dr. P. S. Sawant*, Dr. T. A. Pansare and Dr. R. I. Pathan

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Abstract

Withania somnifera Linn. member of Solanaceae family popularly known as Ashwagandha. It is one of the traditional medicine of ayurveda and classified as Rasayana (rejuvenation) and increases longevity and vitality. It can be used in medicine as single drug or ingredient of polyherbal formulations. The root of Ashwagandha smells like horse (ashwa) that is why it is called Ashwagandha. Different studies indicate that Ashwagandha possesses antiinflammatory, antioxidant, anxiolytic, memory enhancing, adaptogen, antiparkinsonian, antitumor properties. This drug is studied in all scientific aspects and also proven that broad spectrum remedy in various experimental studies. The review article include information on habitat, cultivation and propogation, phytochemical constituents, pharmacological activites, traditional uses and therapeutic uses of Withania somnifera plant.

Keywords: Ashwagandha, Withania somnifera Linn. phytochemistry, pharmacological actions.