ABSTRACT
Abstract Ricinus communis L. and Withania somnifera L. have traditionally been used as analgesic and anti-inflammatory remedies. The current study was aimed to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant potential and anti-inflammatory activity of hydroalcoholic extract of R. communis leaves (RCE) and W. somnifera roots (WSE) in Wistar rats. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were quantified and in vitro antioxidant activity of extracts was determined through DPPH* scavenging, superoxide anion scavenging and reducing power activities, while anti-inflammatory activity was observed by xylene-induced ear edema and paw edema induced by egg albumin and carrageenan. RCE and WSE demonstrated considerable antioxidant activity in DPPH* scavenging (IC50: 250.10 and 309.42 µg/mL), superoxide anion scavenging (IC50: 193.42 and 206.81 ug/mL), and reducing power (maximum absorbance: 1.47±0.01 O.D and 1.28±0.01 O.D at 500 ug/mL) activities, respectively, with high phenolic and flavonoid contents. Both extracts showed dose-dependent edema inhibition in inflammation models. A maximum ear edema inhibitions by RCE (51.49±2.54%) and WSE (49.28±1.90%) at 500 mg/kg were observed when compared to indomethacin (56.42±13.17%) in xylene-induced ear edema. RCE and WSE showed a maximum percentage of paw edema inhibitions of 46.62±8.98% and 43.00±12.44%, respectively as compared to chlorpheniramine (62.02±12.21%) after 4 h in the egg albumin model. In carrageenan-induced paw edema, RCE (72.88±13.79%) significantly inhibited paw edema in comparison to WSE (57.81±17.43%) against diclofenac (89.93±18.53%). Conclusively, both plants have shown plausible antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities that might be due to high phenolic and flavonoid contents. Moreover, RCE demonstrated more promising effects than WSE.
ABSTRACT
Withania somnifera, also known as Indian ginseng, is an important traditional medicine in the Ayurvedic medical system of India, which has a significant effect of adaptation. Modern studies have shown that the main chemical components of W. somnifera are withanolides, which have antioxidant, anti-tumor, enhancing immunity, cardiovascular protection, neuroprotection, anti-stress, anti-stress reaction and hypoglycemic activities. Studies on human, animal, mutagenesis, genotoxicity, reproductive toxicity and drug interaction showed that W. somnifera had good safety. Clinical trials have proved that W. somnifera is effective in treating a variety of human diseases. As a famous traditional medicine and modern dietary supplement, it has a high reputation and market in the international health product market, but in China, there is little scientific research, market development, product introduction and application. In this paper, the traditional application, chemical composition, pharmacological activity, safety evaluation and clinical study of the plant were introduced, so as to increase the understanding of the dual use of the plant, and to provide reference for the future introduction of the product, the service to the health of the Chinese people and the promotion of the "double cycle" of the trade of health products between China and the international community.
Subject(s)
Animals , Humans , China , Neoplasms , Plant Extracts , Withania , WithanolidesABSTRACT
Objective: To identify the safe and effective natural inhibitors of spike glycoprotein and main protease 3CLpro using potential natural antiviral compounds which are studied under various animal models and viral cell lines. Methods: First, compounds were retrieved from the PubChem database and predicted for their druggability using the MolSoft web server, and compounds having drug-like property were predicted for major adverse drug reactions like cardiotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, and nephrotoxicity using ADVERpred. Docking of nontoxic antiviral compounds with spike glycoprotein and main protease 3CLpro was performed using AutoDock vina by PyRx 0.8 version. The stability of compound-protein interactions was checked by molecular dynamic (MD) simulation using Schrodinger Desmond software. Results: Based on the druggable and nontoxic profile, nine compounds were selected. Among them, Withanone from Withania somnifera showed the highest binding affinity and best fit at active sites 1 of spike glycoprotein (glycosylation site) and main protease 3CLpro via interacting with active site amino acid residues before and after MD simulation at 50 ns. Withanone, which may reduce the glycosylation of SARS-CoV-2 via interacting with Asn343 and inhibit viral replication. Conclusion: The current study reports Withanone as a non-toxic antiviral against SARS-CoV-2 and serve as a potential lead hit for further experimental validation.
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a spice utilized in Ayurveda, the conventional medication of India. Its root has a horsey smell (in Sanskrit, ashva signifies "horse" and gandha signifies "smell") and is said to present the quality and virility of a pony. Different pieces of the plant are utilized, yet the most well-known in supplements is a concentrate of its underlying foundations. Aim: aim of this study is to compare and assess the awareness among people on the effects of ashwagandha on blood sugar levels. Materials and Methods: A well structured questionnaire containing 10 questions was circulated among Indian population. The questionnaire has covered basic demographic data such as age, gender, weight, blood pressure and about the awareness of effects of ashwagandha on blood sugar levels Conclusion: From the above outcomes, it might be presumed that the Withania somnifera root extract can reduce blood sugar levels. It's mindfulness among individuals must be expanded
ABSTRACT
Aim: This study aimed to infer the ameliorative potential of Withania somnifera (‘Ashwagandha’) against hexavalent chromium induced micronuclei in Channa punctatus.Methodology: After laboratory acclimatization of 15 days, C. punctatus (12.20 cm, 42 g) were maintained in six groups. Group I, served as control. Fishes of groups II and III were separately exposed to root extract of W. somnifera (3 mg l-1) and 96 hr-LC50/10 of Cr (VI), 7.89 mg l-1, respectively, for 24, 48, 72 and 96 hr. Contrarily, the fish of groups IV, V and VI were exposed to 7.89 mg l-1 of Cr (VI) along with increasing concentrations of root extract of W. somnifera (1, 2, 3 mg l-1), respectively. Induction of micronuclei was assessed in fishes of all the six groups after stipulated exposure periods. Results: A significant induction (p<0.05) in micronuclei frequency was observed in Group-III as compared to the control. On contrary, there was a significant (p<0.05) decrease in frequency of micronuclei induction with increasing concentrations of root extract of W. somnifera, as compared to Group-III, after stipulated exposure periods in a dose and time-dependent manner. Interpretation: Preliminary investigations evinced that the root extract of W. somnifera has enough ameliorative potential against short term sub-lethal exposure to Cr (VI) induced genomic instability, i.e., micronuclei induction in C. punctatus.
ABSTRACT
Present study was aimed to evaluate the effect of oral administration of imidacloprid on weekly body weights and hematological parameters in female rats and also to determine the protective role of Withania somnifera against imidacloprid induced toxicity. Forty eight (48) female albino Wistar rats were divided into four (4) groups of twelve (12) animals each. Group 1 served as control, groups 2 was given with imidacloprid at the rate of 30 mg/kg b.wt/day, group 3 was maintained as Withania somnifera (WS) control (1g/ kg feed) and group 4 was treated with both imidacloprid + Withania somnifera (dose as above). The experiment was carried out for a period of 30 days and the test compound was administered daily by oral gavage. Blood samples were collected on 15th and 30th day for hematological analysis. A significant (P < 0.05) reduction in weekly body weights were observed in group 2. Hematology revealed a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in TEC, Hb, PCV, MCV, MCH and MCHC and increase (P < 0.05) in TLC in group 2. The DLC revealed a significant (P < 0.05) increase in neutrophil count and significant (P < 0.05) decrease in lymphocyte count in group 2. Administration of Withania somnifera along with imidacloprid brought moderate protection in all the above parameters
ABSTRACT
Ashawagandha is herb used for various kinds of disease especially as a nervine tonic. Considering these facts many scientific studies were carried out and its memory, anti-stress activities were studied in detail. Aims and Objectives: To study the Phytochemical analysis and Pharmacological Study of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) varieties and Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal wild purified with milk steam (WSWM) root powder. To study the efficacy of Wild and Cultivated varieties of Ashwagandha on rats through Elevated Plus Maze test and Morris Water Maze (MWM) model. Materials and Methods: The formulations Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal wild (WSW) root powder, Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal Nagori (WSN) root powder, Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal wild purified with milk steam (WSWM) root powder, PG (Wheat powder placebo) were subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening for the detection of various chemical constituents present. Animal experimentation was done on Wistar Albino Rats obtained from the animal house attached and are divided into three groups consisting of 6 rats per group. Nootropic agents are effectively screened using this paradigm in scopolamine-induced dementia. Elevated Plus Maze and Morris Water Maze (MWM) model are based on this phenomenon. Results: By performing phytochemical analysis, Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal Nagori (WSN) showed the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, glycosides, phytosterols, saponins, proteins and amino acids. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal wild purified with milk steam (WSWM) showed the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, glycosides, proteins and amino acids and wheat powder placebo (PG) showed the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, glycosides, saponins, phenolic compounds, tannins, proteins amino acids and flavonoids. Conclusion: The formulation group 3 (WSWM) showed remarkable reduction in the transfer latency time (in elevated plus maze test) from the acquisition day to the retention day and therefore considered Group 3 is statistically significant. The formulation group 3 (WSWM) showed remarkable reduction in the latency scores in Morris water maze and hence Group 3 (Ashwagandha wild purified with milk steam (WSWM) root powder) is statistically significant.
ABSTRACT
Background: Gentamicin, an aminoglycoside group of drug, used against aerobic gram negative bacteria, is known for nephrotoxicity. Herbal products have a special place in the world of pharmaceuticals with their safety, efficacy and cost effectiveness. Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) roots had known since long for its antioxidant status and free radical scavenging property. So W. somnifera can be used as nephroprotective agent because of free radical scavenging property.Methods: Total 54 rats were randomised in 3 groups named G10, G20 and G30 according to 10, 20 and 30 days of treatment. In each groups, rats were randomly assigned to any of the three subgroups i.e., control C group [received normal saline (2 ml/100 gm/day) orally consecutively for test duration], gentamicin treated GT group [received normal saline (2 ml/100 gm/day) orally consecutively for test duration and intraperitoneal gentamicin (40 mg/kg) once daily for last five days] and W. somnifera treated WST group [received W. somnifera orally (500 mg/kg/day) for the test duration and intraperitoneal gentamicin (40 mg/kg) once daily for last five days]. Rats were sacrificed 24 hours after the last dose of gentamicin injection. Excised kidneys were weighted and prepared for histological examination.Results: The mean weight of kidneys in GT group was significantly higher than the WST group in all test durations indicating the antioxidant and free radical scavenging property. This was also reflected histologically as WST group kidney showed less amount inflammation as compared to GT group.Conclusions: W. somnifera root extract provide nephroprotection against gentamicin induced nephrotoxicity.
ABSTRACT
Background: The basal ganglia historically been considered as a part of the motor system because of the varietyof motor deficits that occur when they are damaged. But now it is considered as “extrapyramidal” motor system,and the disorders of basal ganglia are called extrapyramidal disorders. One type of symptoms that result frombasal ganglia disorders is called as Huntington’s Chorea. As this disorder involves with symptoms like dyskinesias- abnormal involuntary movements, we felt it is necessary to protect our nervous system from such a disorder ifpossible in a painless regular fashion by a herb.Materials and Methods: We used adult male Sprague Dawly rats for this study. Animals were divided into 5groups and were given either Withania somnifera extract or the active component Withanolide A in differentconcentrations 10 days prior to lesion surgery and continued 5 days post surgery. The neuroprotective role of thedrug employed was analyzed on the 5th day post lesion by using foot print test in a run way.Result: The gait and balance of the animals were taken as a measure to analyze the protective nature of thestriatum and so the activity of the drug employed here. The gait and balance of the LC animals were poor statingthe unprotective nature of striatum. But the balance and gait of both drug group animals were comparativelybetter than the LC animals. That clearly stated the neuroprotective capacity of both the drugs used for this study.Conclusion: Based on the observations and results we came to a conclusion that both the ethanolic extract andthe active component withanolide A have the capacity in protecting the striatum and so can be used as a foodsupplement on a daily basis to protect our striatum. If needed further research can be conducted to analyze deepinto the therapeutic effects of these herbal drugs.
ABSTRACT
Background: Huntington’s disease (HD) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease named after George Summer Huntington who first described the disorder in 1872. Huntington’s disease is associated with basal ganglia degeneration which is called as the controlling center of extra pyramidal motor system that exerts an inhibitory effect on cerebral motor cortex. This will filters the unwanted motor movements and so refines the motor movements. Degeneration of neurons of basal ganglia reduces the inhibitory output and so leads to Huntington’s disease. At present there is no cure for this disease and trials are going on to treat symptoms, slow the progress of the disease and repairing the damages caused by disease. So there is a necessity to produce an animal model of HD by using a neurotoxin kainic acid for research purpose. By this study we produced a simple and effective rat model of HD which is more mimicking the human model of HD. We also analyzed the role of the extract of a herbal plant Withania somnifera and its active principle withanolide A in preventing the nervous system of HD rat models. Results: The activity of the herbal drug was analyzed by using rotarod apparatus. Both the drug group animals behaved normally in the rotarod against the lesion control animals and proved the efficacy of the drug employed. Conclusion: Present days treatments are mostly given to reduce the progress of HD and to treat the symptoms. Complete curation of HD is not up to the mark. But by taking these herbal drugs by daily basis we can prevent the occurrence of HD as these drugs are very good in neuroprotection.
ABSTRACT
Background & objectives: In the traditional system of medicine in India Ashwagandha powder and Sidh Makardhwaj have been used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. However, safety and efficacy of this treatment have not been evaluated. Therefore, the present study was carried out to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Ayurvedic treatment (Ashwagandha powder and Sidh Makardhwaj) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Methods: One hundred and twenty five patients with joint pain were screened at an Ayurvedic hospital in New Delhi, India. Eighty six patients satisfied inclusion criteria and were included in the study. Detailed medical history and physical examination were recorded. Patients took 5g of Ashwagandha powder twice a day for three weeks with lukewarm water or milk. Sidh Makardhwaj (100 mg) with honey was administered daily for the next four weeks. The follow up of patients was carried out every two weeks. The primary efficacy end point was based on American College of Rheumatology (ACR) 20 response. Secondary end points were ACR50, ACR70 responses, change from baseline in disease activity score (DAS) 28 score and ACR parameters. Safety assessments were hepatic function [alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bilirubin and β2 microglobulin], renal function (urea and creatinine and NGAL) tests and urine mercury level. Results: The study was completed by 90.7 per cent (78/86) patients. Patients with moderate and high disease activity were 57.7 per cent (45/78) and 42.3 per cent (33/78), respectively. All patients were tested positive for rheumatoid factor and increased ESR level. Ashwagandha and Sidh Makardhwaj treatment decreased RA factor. A significant change in post-treatment scores of tender joint counts, swollen joint counts, physician global assessment score, patient global assessment score, pain assessment score, patient self assessed disability index score and ESR level were observed as compared to baseline scores. ACR20 response was observed in 56.4 per cent (44/78) patients (American College of Rheumatology criteria) and moderate response in 39.74 per cent (31/78) patients [European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) criteria]. Ayurvedic treatment for seven weeks in rheumatoid arthritis patients showed normal kidney and liver function tests. However, increased urinary mercury levels were observed after treatment. Interpretation & conclusions: The findings of the present study suggest that this Ayurvedic treatment (Ashwagandha powder and Sidh Makardhwaj) has a potential to be used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. However, due to small sample size, short duration, non randomization and lack of a control group as study limitations, further studies need to be done to confirm these findings.
Subject(s)
Arthritis, Rheumatoid/therapy , Humans , India , Medicine, Ayurvedic , Plant Extracts/pharmacology , Plant Extracts/therapeutic use , Withania/pharmacology , Withania/therapeutic useABSTRACT
Background: In Nepali and Indian system of traditional medicine, Withania somnifera (WS) is considered as a rejuvenative medicine to maintain physical and mental health and has also been shown to improve memory consolidation. Objective: In this study, a methanolic extract of WS (mWS) was applied on mice hippocampal CA1 neurons to identify the receptors activated by the WS. Materials and Methods: The whole cell patch clamp recordings were performed on CA1 pyramidal neurons from immature mice (7‑20 postnatal days). The cells were voltage clamped at ‑ 60 mV. Extract of WS root were applied to identify the effect of mWS. Results: The application of mWS (400 ng/μl) induced remarkable inward currents (‑158.1 ± 28.08 pA, n = 26) on the CA1 pyramidal neurons. These inward currents were not only reproducible but also concentration dependent. mWS‑induced inward currents remained persistent in the presence of amino acid receptor blocking cocktail (AARBC) containing blockers for the ionotropic glutamate receptors, glycine receptors and voltage‑gated Na+ channel (Control: ‑ 200.3 ± 55.42 pA, AARBC: ‑ 151.5 ± 40.58 pA, P > 0.05) suggesting that most of the responses by mWS are postsynaptic events. Interestingly, these inward currents were almost completely blocked by broad GABAA receptor antagonist, bicuculline‑ 20 μM (BIC) (BIC: ‑1.46 ± 1.4 pA, P < 0.001), but only partially by synaptic GABAA receptor blocker gabazine (1 μM) (GBZ: ‑18.26 ± 4.70 pA, P < 0.01). Conclusion: These results suggest that WS acts on synaptic/extrasynaptic GABAA receptors and may play an important role in the process of memory and neuroprotection via activation of synaptic and extrasynaptic GABAA receptors.
ABSTRACT
Aim: Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal or Ashwagandha is a valuable medicinal plant having a consistent demand in pharmaceutical industries. Traditionally it is propagated from seeds but it’s germination capacity is poor. So in the present study different methods were considered to sort out a suitable method that can be used for its cultivation in the field of Hazaribag, Jharkhand, India. Study Design: The study was done in the laboratory and field of Hazaribag, Jharkhand, India. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Botany, Vinoba Bhave University, Hazaribag, Jharkhand, India. The study was carried out from July 2012 to August 2012 and again from mid June 2013 to August 2013. Methodology: Different pre germination treatments including 24 hours water soaking , 48 hours water soaking, mechanical scarification, heat treatment at 50 degree Celsius (5min, 10min, 15min) and Gibberellic acid [GA3] (250μg/l, 500μg/l, 1000μg/l) treatments were proposed. The mean germination percentage and the mean germination time were calculated for each of the treatments. Results: The results revealed that GA3 500μg/l treated seeds showed increased germination percentage in laboratory (86±0.34%) and in soil (84.1±0.36%) as well as reduced mean germination time in laboratory (5.8±0.41 days) and in soil (10.6±0.17 days). Whereas heat treatment at 50 degree Celsius (5min, 10min, 15min) drastically reduced germination percentage in laboratory (32±0.47%, 16±0.36%, 12±0.31%) and in soil (51±0.49%, 49.6±0.49%, 32.2±0.46%), respectively. Conclusion: Pre treating fresh seeds of Ashwagandha with GA3 500μg/l for 24 hours before sowing can be adopted to overcome dormancy of seeds with good germination percentage. Likewise mechanical scarification of seeds can also be taken into consideration as an alternative, cost-effective and eco-friendly way to break seed dormancy which has also given favourable results.
ABSTRACT
Withania somnifera is an important medicinal plant and used to cure many diseases. Indirect regeneration protocol for multiple shoots development was established using nodal explants of W. somnifera from 50-60 days old seedlings. The callus induction was observed from nodal explants, grown on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with various concentrations and combinations of 2,4-dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-D) and kinetin (Kn). Maximum level of callusing response (80.0%) was recorded on MS medium supplemented with a combinations of 2.0 mg/l 2,4-D and 0.2 mg/l Kn. The callus (greenish compact) was transferred into MS medium containing various concentrations (0.5–2.0mg/l) of 6-benzyl amino purine (BAP) alone and in combination (0.1–0.4mg/l) with indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) for shoot initiation and proliferation. The maximum number of shoots was initiated from callus on 1.0mg/l BAP along with 0.2 mg/l IAA and proliferation of shoots achieved by subsequent subcultures at 4 weeks interval in the same medium. The maximum of 31.4 shoots/explant were achieved in the second subculture. MS medium along with 1.0 mg/l gibberellic acid (GA3) induced maximum elongation (96.7%) of regenerated shoots and MS medium supplemented with 0.8 mg/l indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) induced maximum rooting (96.7%) from elongated shoots. After a hardening period, the plantlets were transferred to the field with 98% of survival.
ABSTRACT
Aim: The present study was carried out to analyze the genetic variations among 20 different populations of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal collected from different habitats (locations) by RAPD analysis. Methodology: DNA was isolated from the fresh leaf samples collected from the field by Bernatsky and Tankley method. Isolated genomic DNA was purified by phenol: chloroform: isoamyl alcohol (25:24:1) extraction mixture and then amplified by MJ themal cycler. Amplified DNA products were quantified and then subjected to RAPD analysis by the method of Williams et al. Results: Randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) was used to analyze the genetic variation and relationship among 20 populations of Withania somnifera collected from different part of South India, including the states of Tamilnadu, Puducherry, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, Maharashtra and supplemented by two commercial varieties from Uttar Pradesh and Delhi. Out of 40 primers, 11 selected primers produced 96 consistent RAPD markers ranging in size from 0.2 kb to 4.0 kb; out of which 75 were polymorphic. Similarity indices were estimated using the Dice coefficient of similarity and cluster analyses were carried out on the similarity estimates using the unweighted pairgroup method to produce a dendrogram using arithmetic average (UPGMA) in the NTSYSpc-verson 1.80 software. The similarity coefficient ranges from 0.53 to 0.98, suggesting that the pronounced genetic variations exist among populations of W. somnifera in South India. The cluster analysis indicates that the 20 populations of W. somnifera were divided into five major groups, regardless of geographical locations. Conclusion: The RAPD analysis indicates existence of genetic variations in natural populations and it may influence and produce changes in phytochemical constituents of W. somnifera populations.
ABSTRACT
The in vivo protective role of hydro-methanolic root extract of Withania somnifera (WS) was evaluated in alleviating lead nitrate (LN)-induced toxicity in male Swiss albino mice by measuring hematoserological profiles. The lead-treated (20 mg/kg body wt, p.o.) albino mice (25-30 g) concurrently received the root extract (200 and 500 mg/kg body wt, p.o.) once daily for the duration of six weeks. Animals exposed to LN showed significant (P<0.001) decline in haemoglobin content, red blood cell count, white blood cell count, packed cell volume and insignificant decrease in mean corpuscular haemoglobin and mean corpuscular haemoglobin content, while mean corpuscular volume and platelet count were increased. A significant elevation (P<0.001) in serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase, serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase and total cholesterol were also observed, when compared with control mice. Thus, the study demonstrated that the concurrent daily administration of root extract of WS protected the adverse effects of LN intoxication in mice.
Subject(s)
Albinism/veterinary , Animals , Blood/pathology , Blood Cell Count , Lead/toxicity , Mice , Nitrates/toxicity , WithaniaABSTRACT
Leaves of Withania somnifera contained more withaferin A and withanolide A than roots indicating that these compounds mainly accumulate in leaves. With an increase in age of the plant, withaferin A was enhanced with a corresponding decrease in withanolide A. Hairy root cultures were induced from leaf explants using Agrobacterium rhizogenes and the transgenic nature of hairy roots was confirmed by partial isolation and sequencing of rolB gene, which could not be amplified in untransformed plant parts. In hairy roots, withaferin A accumulated at 2, 3 and 4% but not at 6% sucrose, the highest amount being 1733 mg/g dry weight at 4% level. High and equal amounts of withaferin A and withanolide A accumulated (890 and 886 mg/g dry tissue respectively) only at 3% sucrose. Increasing concentrations of glucose enhanced withaferin A and it peaked at 5% level (3866 mg/g dry tissue). This amount is 2842 and 34% higher compared to untransformed roots and leaves (collected from 210-day-old plants) respectively. Withanolide A was detected at 5% glucose but not at other concentrations. While chitosan and nitric oxide increased withaferin A, jasmonic acid decreased it. Acetyl salicylic acid stimulated accumulation of both withaferin A and withanolide A at higher concentrations. Triadimefon, a fungicide, enhanced withaferin A by 1626 and 3061% (not detected earlier) compared to hairy and intact roots respectively.
ABSTRACT
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) (WS), a “rasayana” drug, is recommended for balavardhan and mamsavardhan. The study was intended to evaluate dose-related tolerability, safety, and activity of WS formulation in normal individuals. The design was prospective, open-labeled, variable doses in volunteers. Eighteen apparently healthy volunteers (12M:6F, age:18-30 years, and BMI: 19-30) were enrolled. After baseline investigations, they received WS capsules (Rx) (aqueous extract, 8:1) daily in two divided doses with increase in daily dosage every 10 days for 30 days (750 mg/day x10 days, 1 000 mg/day x 10 days, 1 250 mg/day x 10 days). Volunteers were assessed for symptoms/signs, vital functions, hematological and biochemical organ function tests. Muscle activity was measured by hand grip strength, quadriceps strength, and back extensor force. Exercise tolerance was determined using cycle ergometry. Lean body weight and fat% were computed from skin fold thickness measurement. Adverse events were recorded, as volunteered by the subjects. Repeated measures ANOVA, McNemar’s test, and paired t test were employed. All but one volunteer tolerated WS without any adverse event. One volunteer showed increased appetite, libido, and hallucinogenic effects with vertigo at the lowest dose and was withdrawn from study. In six subjects, improvement in quality of sleep was found. Organ function tests were in normal range before and after the intervention. Reduction in total- and LDL- cholesterol and increase of strength in muscle activity was signifi cant. Total body fat percentage showed a reduction trend. WS, in escalated dose, was tolerated well. The formulation appeared safe and strengthened muscle activity. In view of its traditional Rasayana use, further studies are planned to evaluate potential of this drug in patients of sarcopenia.
ABSTRACT
Inhibitors of Apoptosis (IAPs) are important and well studied molecules in the cancer pathway. These are known inhibitors of apoptosis and are over expressed in many tumours where they confer chemo-resistance. The cIAP1 inhibits caspase 3 and caspase 7 and ensures suppression of apoptosis. Docking studies carried out with herbal ligand withaferin A derived from roots of Withania somnifera onto the structure of cIAP1. Withaferin A has shown strong binding affinity of -15.4988 kJ/mol with BIR domain of cIAP1 and in turn interfere in the binding of cIAP1 molecule to caspase 3 and caspase 7 and thus result into prevention of inhibition of these effecter proteins. The docking studies support the experimental outcomes and suggest that withaferin A has potential to develop as candidate molecule for cancer therapy.
ABSTRACT
Withania somnifera (L) Dunal is a well known Indian medicinal plant widely used in the treatment of many clinical conditions in India. It is an important drug commonly known as Asgand which has been used either single or in combination with other drugs in Unani as well as Ayurvedic system of medicine for centuries. It has been described by Dioscorides (78 AD) in his book “Kitab-ul-Hashaish”. Asgand consists of the roots of Withania somnifera which has various therapeutic actions such as anti-inflammatory (Muhallil-e-Warm), sedative (Musakkin), alterative (Muaddil) and aphrodisiac (Muqawwi-e-Bah). Keeping in view the medicinal properties of Withania somnifera Dunal (Asgand), an attempt has been made in this review paper to explore various dimensions of the drug including phytochemical and pharmacological studies carried out on this drug.