Exploring the Potential Applications of Withania Somnifera

Abstract

Withania somnifera commonly known as Ashwagandha, a medicinal ayurvedic herb belongs to the family Solanaceae. In our study, the medicinal properties of aqueous root extract of Withania somnifera were investigated. The phytochemical tests confirmed the presence of flavonoids and absence of alkaloids, saponins and tannins. The antioxidant activity increased in a dose dependent manner. In anticancer activity, the highest percentage of inhibition was observed at a concentration of 500µg/ml in MCF-7 cells. The antimicrobial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Aspergillus niger was checked and observed potential inhibition against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Biochemical assessment of anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic activities was performed, where W. somnifera showed maximum percentage of inhibition at 1000µg/ml and a reasonable percentage of inhibition at 200µg/ml respectively. In-vitro glucose uptake activity was carried out in 3T3-L1 cell line, followed by expression of Glut-4 gene. The highest wound closure rate was observed at 200µg/ml. Thus we conclude that aqueous root extract of W. somnifera showed numerous therapeutic potential which makes it a valuable natural source.