An insight to curative effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), an Ayurveda herb

Abstract

Ayurveda is the oldest form of medical sciences treats with the plant extracts. The plant produces secondary metabolites (phytochemicals). They pose as bioactive component act on many physiological mechanisms to treat disorders of the human body with zero side effects. Thus, they are being used to develop phyto-medicines and Ayurveda to become global health care system. This review focuses on re-emergence of Ayurveda and the recent studies on Ashwagandha (Indian Ginseng) showcasing it’s potential as rejuvenator, nerve tonic, anti-carcinogenic and anti-rheumatic agent and even in combating Covid-19 infection. The major active ingredients were involved withaferin-A, withanolide-D, withanone, withanosides, sitoindosides and includes various alkaloids, steroidal lactones and saponins. These phytochemicals are studied on the basis of their mechanism of action, how they influence the activity of target enzymes or proteins. Through understanding the biochemical pathways of Ashwagandha produced by their secondary metabolites, it will be reasonable to justify its further research and application in drug formulation.