A Comprehensive Review on Withania somnifera Dunal

Abstract

Withania somnifera is known as Ashwagandha, also commonly known in different parts of the world as Indian ginseng, Winter cherry, Ajagandhaand and Kanaje Hindi, a plant belonging to the Solanaceae family. Ashwagandha is a woody shrub or herb whose various parts (berries, leaves and roots) are used as folk remedies. Some traditional uses of ashwagandha are also invoked now a day, such as enhancing sexual function in men, increasing fertility in men or women, aiding sleep and enhancing sports performance. Withania somnifera is used as adaptogen, antiarthritic, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, nervine tonic, nerve soothing, sedative, hypotensive, antioxidant, immunomodulator, free radical scavenger, anti-stress and anti-cancer agent. Ashwagandha is called "Rasayana", which means powerful rejuvenator in Ayurvedic jargon as it increases hemoglobin (red blood count) and hair melanin. In this study we have critically reviewed recent advancements of Withania somnifera in an attempt to authenticate its use as a multi-purpose medicinal agent.