Current Aspects of Medicinal Properties and Health Benefits of Plant Withania somnifera

Abstract

Withania somnifera also known under the name Ashwagandha has been in use for over 5000 years. It has been concluded from studies undertaken that this plant possesses various medicinal properties contributing to several health benefits. These effects are likely to be caused due to the wide variety of steroid lactones and withanides and other components contained within the W. somnifera plant. Increasing number of studies has revealed the evidence for antioxidant and medicinal properties. Investigations have shown to be very positive across a wide variety of experimental systems, including in-vitro tests, cell-based studies, and in-vivo animal trials noting in particular the reduction of ROS for rats with induced Parkinson’s disease and the healthy gain of weight in normal rats. There is also great interest within the anticancer abilities of W. somnifera and these abilities have shown to be effective against various types of cancer including prostrate and lung. Strong evidence suggests the plant also carries antibacterial activity. The aims of this article is to summarize current research dealing with medicinal properties and health benefits of Withania somnifera extracts with a focus on antioxidant, anticancer and antimicrobial properties.