Journal of Ethnopharmacology 276 (2021) 114101

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Journal of Ethnopharmacology
journal homepage: www.elsevier.com/locate/jethpharm

Review

Rational use of Ashwagandha in Ayurveda (Traditional Indian Medicine) for

health and healing
Vinod Kumar Joshi a, *, Apurva Joshi b
a
Department of Dravyaguna, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India
b
Ozone Pharmaceutical Ltd., Ozone House, Block A-3, 1 LSC, Janak Puri, New Delhi, India

A R T I C L E I N F O A B S T R A C T

Keywords: Ethnopharmacological relevance: Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Physalis somnifera L.) is a fairly known perennial
Ayurveda shrub of Solanaceae family, and is used in Ayurveda- Traditional Indian Medicine (TIM), since ancient times. It is
Traditional indian medicine well known as Ashwagandha in Sanskrit language in Ayurvedic classics. Its Mula (root) is recommended for health
Ashwagandha
and healing, and the number of single and compound formulation is prescribed rationally. It is believed that the
Therapeutic uses
species name-somnifera is coined based on popular use to “induce sleep” in Ayurveda.
Health and healing
Aim of the study: The present study was aimed to bring out the experience-based traditional uses of Ashwagandha
for health and healing with an emphasis on the pharmacological and biochemical scientific evidences to
corroborate them. The scientific evidences have been explored from the national and international publications.
Materials and method: A comprehensive literary search of Ayurvedic classics was carried out systematically
regarding Ashwagandha for its rationality behind the traditional uses. To excavate the subject matter, the original
Ayurvedic scriptures and several standard Ayurvedic texts of different period was studied insightfully for mean­
ingful contribution. It is to be noted that the primary source of knowledge was considered in writing this
manuscript without any biased attitude. The available literature on Ashwagandha was also searched to ascertain
the basis of scientific Latin name and correct identity. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia and other relevant scientific
works were also taken into consideration to make the subject matter more clearly to the scientific world. For the
scientific evidence of the uses, the international and national Journals and other published material were also
searched to make it inquisitiveness to the scholars interested in Ayurvedic medicinal plants.
Results: The present paper throws ancient luminosity behind the therapeutic uses of one of the promising plant
drug i.e., Ashwagandha of ancient India even to the present time. The scientific evidences corroborate the ra­
tionality ascribed in available Ayurvedic classics of various period of India has been gained.
Conclusion: The study explores that the first reference of Ashwagandha with its significant nomenclature, useful
part, properties, action, and eloquent uses has its footprint in the original texts of Ayurveda. In later works
enhanced knowledge with traditional uses continued even today. Several single and compound formulations
have been found to maintain the health and to alleviate the disorders rationally. It is worthy to note here that the
scientific evidences corroborate the uses practiced in Ayurveda.

1. Introduction
Ashwagandha has its footprint in the original course book of Ayur­
veda- Charaka Samhita and Susruta Samhita since ancient times. In both
the Samhitas, three natural origin substances i.e., Audbhid (Plant), Jan­
gama (Animal), and Parthiva (Minerals) are used as food and medicine
rationally. The substances of plant and animal origin are used as food
whereas including minerals are as drug. The food substances are utilized
for energy and body development whereas drugs are prescribed to
alleviate the disorders (Anonymous, 2010).
A plant has many parts like seed, fruit, root, stem, flower, rhizome,
etc. The specific plant part with its properties, action, and therapeutic
uses are elaborated since ancient times even the season-specific collec­
tion is enumerated. In the case of Ashwagandha, the collection time has
been told in summer and winter to obtain the best result. Not only that
the single and compound formulation have been prescribed to maintain

Abbreviations: TM/CAM, Traditional Medicine/Complementary and Alternative Medicine; WHO, World Health Organization; WHA, World Health Assembly.
* Corresponding author. Department of Dravyaguna, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, U.P, 221005, India.
E-mail address: joshivkvns@gmail.com (V.K. Joshi).

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2021.114101
Received 29 September 2019; Received in revised form 23 December 2020; Accepted 31 March 2021
Available online 5 April 2021
0378-8741/© 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
V.K. Joshi and A. Joshi
the health and to alleviate disorders (Agnivesa and Charaka, 2007;
Susruta, 2005).
Following those original texts, more and more experience-based uses
are taken into account as found in varied noted publications of different
times. Ashwagandha is also referred by its synonyms i.e., Vajigandha,
Turangagandha, and Varahkarni. Many other synonyms have been coined
later as seen in nighantus, which have significant meanings. The
importance of knowing a synonym is very useful to understand a sub­
stance as it has hidden meanings.
It is worthwhile to point out here that the substances are categorized
as Ayusya and Anayusya (wholesome and unwholesome) and are used
based on- Guna (properties or attributes) and karma (action), which
indicate the importance of principles of Ayurveda for simultaneously
elective uses of food and drug in Ayurveda (Agnivesa and Charaka,
2007).
Each plant substance has been identified for its scientific Latin name
by botanists. Similarly, Ashwagandha has been identified for its scientific
Latin name as Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal of Solanaceae family.
Initially, it was put in the genera Physalis Linn., which has its emergence
from the word Physa, a bladder alluding to the calyx (Samuel Heremen,
1988). The genus Withania thought to have been named in honor of
Henry Thomas Maire Witham, a British geologist and writer in fossil
botany beginning in 1830 (Mir et al., 2012).
2. Materials and method
A thorough review including original scriptures of Ayurveda, clas­
sical texts of Ayurveda of different periods, Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of
India, Ayurvedic Formulary of India and scientific databases like Google
Scholar, Science Direct, PubMed, SciFinder using Ashwagandha and
Withania somnifera as keyword with emphasis on ethanobotany, litera­
ture, pharmacological activity and clinical trial between 1995 to 2020
was done. Several published data were scrutinized and those relevant to
the manuscript title and purpose of study were selected (Fig. 1).
3. Significance of the name- Ashwagandha and its synonyms
Ashwagandha is a compound word of Sanskrit language; Ashwa
signifies-horse and Gandha-means smell by a few scholars and strength
by others. The former explains that it has a horse-like smell, whereas,
later interpret ate it horse-like strength producer (Vaidya, 1984) and
(Sharma, 2000). In Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita its two
Fig. 1. Materials and method: Approach for review.
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Journal of Ethnopharmacology 276 (2021) 114101
synonyms i.e., Vajagandha and Turangagandha are included which has
similar implications as Ashwagandha has. The word Vaji and Turanga
denotes horse and Gandha denotes strength. In later works many new
significant synonyms have come into sight, which are as follows; Asva­
kanda- A root tuber promotes strength like a horse; Varahakarni-leaf-like
boar’s ear; Gandhapatri-leaves having smell; Balada-improve strength;
Putrada-promotes male progeny and Marutaghni-alleviates Vatika dis­
orders (Sharma, 2000).
The point of mentioning the synonyms here is that one can under­
stand the drug Ashwagandha and its uses ascribed in other texts of Ay­
urveda by its synonyms. Apart from that synonym like Varahakarni has
Pharmacogonostical relevance i.e., leaf looks like Boar’s ear. A few
others have Pharmacological relevance too like- Balada, Putrada as
discussed earlier.
4. Botanic nomenclature based on Ayurvedic names and popular
use
Binominal nomenclature includes; scientific Latin name of a Plant
consist of three parts in it viz- Piper longum L., which signifies genera,
species, and author name respectively. A good number of binominal
nomenclatures or botanical name have its origin from (Ayurvedic name
of the Drug substance) as evident from William Roxburgh’s, “Flora
Indica” where it has been mentioned that he picked up names of the
various drugs from the noted works on Ayurveda i.e., Amarkosa, Raja­
nighantu and Bhavaprakasa, which helped him to ascertain their
botanical nomenclature. The Dutch Governor of Malabar, Heinrrich van
Rheede tol Draakenstein, an amateur botanist, made a large collection of
plants with the help of Ayurvedic physician and published descriptions of
them in “Hortus Malabaricus” in 12 volumes. Lineaus saw this book
when he was a student in Holland and it is mainly on Rheede’s “Hortus
that Linnaeus based the nomenclature of Indian Plants (Damodaran
et al., 2015). A few of the examples of botanical nomenclature based on
Sanskrit-Ayurvedic names are as follows; arjuna- Terminalia arjuna
(Roxb. ex DC.); Karvi- Carum carvi L.; asoka- Saraca asoca (Roxb.) Wild.;
devdaru- Cedrus deodara (Roxb. ex D.Don); tamalapatra- Cinnamomum
tamala (Buch.-Ham.) T.Nees & Eberm; champaka- Michelia champaca L.;
nirgundi- Vitex nigundo; jatamansi- Nardostachys jatamansi (D.Don) DC.;
madhuka- Madhuca indica J.F.Gmel. are a few examples (Joshi et al.,
2017). It is believed that the species somnifera of Withania genera is also
coined based on the popular use of Ashwagandha in India to induce sleep.
The Latin scientific species name somnifera has the same meaning i.e.,
“to induce sleep”.
5. The basic pharmaceutical forms of Ashwagandha in Ayurveda
It is fascinating that its useful part Mula (radix or root) has been said
to collect in the summer and winter season to prepare quality medicine.
Furthermore, five basic pharmaceutical forms as single formulation i.e.,
Svarasa (juice), Kalka (paste), Srita (decoction), Sita (cold infusion), and
Phanta (hot infusion) (Agnivesa and Charaka, 2007) as illustrated in
Fig. 2.
6. Ashwagandha for health and healing in Ayurveda
The significance of Ashwagandha as Balya (physical and mental
strengthening) is specified for the first time in Charaka Samhita as well as
in Susruta Samhita based on its properties. It is recommended to promote
Bala (strength) in Ayurveda, which is known as Ojas. The word Ojas is
derived from the Sanskrit language, which denotes strength in a living body. It
is the super most essence of seven Dhatu (body retaining tissues) i.e., rasa
(plasma)–Rakta (blood)-Mamsa (muscle)–Meda (adipose) –Asthi (bone)
–Majja (Bone marrow) and Sukra (sperm including semen). It is located in
the heart and is white or red, slightly yellowish, 8 drops in amount, and su­
perior most. The person dies, if it is diminished considerably. In the body of
living beings, the Ojas is produced first. This has uniformity like Ghrita
V.K. Joshi and A. Joshi
Fig. 2. Basic pharmaceutical forms of Ashwagandha in Ayurveda.
(clarified butter), taste of Madhu (honey), and smell of fried paddy.
In Charaka Samhita, the sign and symptoms of diminished Ojas is dis­
cussed as follows; the person is fearful, weak, always worried, having dis­
orders in sense organs, deranged luster and mental ability, rough and
emaciated (Agnivesa and Charaka, 2007; Susruta, 2005).
6.1. Charaka Samhita(1000 BCE)
In Charaka Samhita, Ashwagandha is specified in Brimhaniya (bulk
promoting) and Balya (physical and mental strength promoting) group
with other drugs of plant origin. It is fascinating to mention here that
five basic pharmaceutical forms as referred earlier are prescribed as per
the condition of the disease and strength of the patient. The juice being
best in potency is given to a patient having the severity of disease with
good body strength, whereas other forms are given in low body strength
and less severity of the disease.
The root powder of Ashwagandha alone is prescribed orally in
tuberculosis, cold fever, piles, abdominal and urinary disorders; its paste
is applied externally in thigh disease. In Hikka hiccough and dyspnoea,
the alkali preparation is recommended with clarified butter and honey.
Root is also used to prepare formulation like Asava (naturally fer­
menting liquid preparation), aphrodisiac clarified butter preparation to
improve potency and Amritaghrita to allay-all kinds of poison. In painful
conditions and fracture two medicated oil preparation Rasnadi and
Vrisamuladi are recommended respectively. In addition to that, a
medicated preparation administered through the anal route is to
improve Bala (strength) and Varna (complexion) and a Nasya (nasal
administration to allay headache (Agnivesa and Charaka, 2007)).
6.2. Sushruta Samhita (1000 BCE)
In Sushruta Samhita, Ashwagandha root is used to maintain the
healthy state of life by improving the Dhatus- (body retaining tissues)
plasma-blood- muscle-adipose- bone marrow-sperm including semen. Its
3
Journal of Ethnopharmacology 276 (2021) 114101
root with sesame seed and black-gram powder with clarified butter of
goat and honey is prescribed to alleviate tuberculosis. In addition to that
Ashwagandha, sita (non-crystallized of sugar), pippali (Piper longum L.)
powder with clarified butter and honey is prescribed in similar condi­
tions. Its powder with sesame seed and warm water is given orally in
Mahavatavyadhi (enormous vatika disorders) manifested as pain,
inflammation, immobility, stiffness etc in the body. The oil prepared
from Ashwagandha and other drugs is used externally for lengthening of
the pinna of the ear. Also, paste is recommended externally to cure
edema and erysipelas. Through the nasal route, Kshira Kalpa (milk-based
preparation) is administered to cure blindness. At other places, it is
prescribed with boiled milk for good strengthening of body parts (Sus­
ruta, 2005).
6.3. Bhela Samhita (1000 BCE)
In Bhela Samhita, formulation containing Ashwagandha has been
recommended externally in Kustha (dermatopathies) and worm infes­
tation with Aragvadha (Cassia fistula L.), bhargi (Clerodendrum serratum
(L.) Moon) etc. In tuberculosis, the Kalka (powder) preparation with
apamarga (Achyranthes aspera L.), Nakuli (Aristolochia indica L.), Gaura
Sarsapa (Brassica alba Boiss.), Tila (Sesamum indicum L.) and Bilva (Aegle
marmelos (L.) Correa) is prescribed. It is included in Dadhika Ghrita
(clarified butter based formulation) to pacify insanity and epilepsy. A
new synonym- Turangi is found in this text, which is identified as Ash­
wagandha by the commentator (Anonymous, 1977).
6.4. Astanga Hridaya (600 A.D.)
Astanga Hridaya, a noted work in Ayurvedic classics of the medieval
period mentions Ashwagandha as an ingredient of Bala taila (oil prepa­
ration), to pacify pain, inflammation and stiffness of the body part as
well as in fever, (intra-abdominal lump, insanity, retention of urine) and
gynecological problem. It is one of the ingredients of Nagabala Sarpi
V.K. Joshi and A. Joshi Journal of Ethnopharmacology 276 (2021) 114101

(medicated clarified butter preparation) used as body strengthening, to Table 1

improve complexion, as vitalizer to life, and to allay wrinkles and The dosage form, route of administration, therapeutic uses of Ashwagandha with
graying of hairs. In pulmonary tuberculosis, Ashwagandha powder is Ayurvedic textual references.
boiled in milk and consumed with non-crystallized sugar. Ashwagandha Dosage form & route of Therapeutic uses Ayurvedic Textbook
powder with milk/sesame oil/clarified butter for 15 days is considered administration
as excellent source of nourishment even for the emaciated person Kshara (alkali) with Tamaka Svasa (bronchial Charaka Samhita
(Vagbhat, 2005). honey and clarified asthma) Astanga Hridaya
butter
Internal- oral route
6.5. Vrindamadhava (900 A.D.)
Kalka (paste) Granthi (cyst), Visarpa Charaka Samhita
External (erysipelas)
Vrindamadhava is considered as the first treatise of Ayurveda exclu­ Ghrita (medicated- Sosha (tuberculosis) Sushruta Samhita
sively on treatment. A Yusha (soup) preparation with other drugs is clarified butter) Vrindamadhava
recommended to cure tuberculosis, if consumed with milk or meat soup. Internal- oral
Churna (Powder) Ati-Karsya (excessive Sushruta Samhita
Ashwagandha with Piper longum L., non-crystallized sugar, honey, and Internal- oral emaciation)
clarified butter is prescribed to alleviate tuberculosis. Also with Sida Churna (powder) with Anga-Pustikara Sushruta Uttaratantra
cordifolia L., Oroxylum indicum (L.) Kurz, Trigonella foenum graecum L., milk (strengthening of the body Astanga Hridaya
and Boerhaavia diffusa powder is prescribed every day with milk to Internal- oral part)
Kvatha (decoction) with Garbhadharana Vrindamadhava
alleviate wound and tuberculosis. It is one of the ingredients of Maha­
ghrita and milk (establishing fetus) Bhavprakash Chikitsa
rasnadi Kvatha (decoction) which alleviates all kinds of pain, stiffnes, Internal- oral
immobility, inflammation of the affected part, Parkinson disease, Kalka or Kasaya Vrisya (aphrodisiac) and Vrindamadhava
kyphosis, sciatica, osteoarthritis, disorders of; bone, bone marrow, lig­ (powder or mansavardhana Chakradatta
aments, etc. decoction) with milk (development of muscle
and clarified butter; tissue)
Ashwagandha with other drugs as an external paste is recommended Internal- oral
in inflammation and erysipelas. The oral administration of powder of Churna (powder) with Nidranasa (loss of sleep) Bangasena Samhita
Ashwagandha alone with milk/clarified butter/sesame oil or lukewarm sugar and sarpi
water for half a month improves the strength of the body in an (clarified butter)
Internal- oral
emaciated-child. Formulation named as Asvagandhadhya Ghrita (medi­
Churna (powder) with Hrdayavata (Cardiac Bangasena Samhita
cated clarified butter) is consumed orally for 90–115 days, alleviates bibhitaki, Jaggery disorder due to Vata)
baldness, grey hair, cardiac and, urinary bladder disease and is recom­ and warm water
mended as best aphrodisiac preparation (Vrinda, 2007). Internal- oral
Kvatha (decoction) Mutraghata (retention/ Siddhabhaisajyamanimala
Internal- oral suppression of urine)
6.6. Cakradatta (1100 A.D.) Kalka or Kasaya Vatika disorders Vrindamadhava
(powder or (manifestation by pain)
It is a text on the principles and practices of Ayurvedic Medicine decoction) with milk
written by Cakrapanidatta. In patients of tuberculosis, Ashwagandha with and clarified butter;
Internal- oral
other drugs in decoction form is prescribed. At the other place, Ashwa­
Churna (powder) with Udararoga (abdominal Chakradatta
gandhadi oil preparation is prescribed for massage and medicated enema Cow’s urine disorders), Krimi (worms),
to promote strength, corpulence, and sexual potency. Asvagandhadhya Internal- oral Sotha (inflammation)
ghrita is prescribed to alleviate semen disorders and as muscle tissue Asvagandha taila (oil) Kosthavata (abdominal Chakradatta
promoters. The Ashwagandha alone pounded with Cow’s urine is External-massage disorders), Ktavata
Internal- anal route (hypertension), Raktapitta
administered to alleviate-abdominal disorder, worms, and edema. The (internal hemorrhage),
decoction of Ashwagandha processed with milk and ghrita is prescribed Raktapradara
to conceive a woman (Chakrapanidatta, 1994). (menorrhagia), disorders
of semen and uterus,
Churna (powder) with Medhya Rasayana Astanga Hridaya
6.7. Bhavaprakasa (1600 A.D.)
other Drugs (Intellect promoting)
Internal- Oral
The noted scholar- Bhavaprakas composed by Bhavamishra in two Churna (Powder) with Balya (physical and Rajamartanda
parts. Part one is Bhavaprakasa-Nighantu and part two is Bhavaprakasa, honey, clarified mental Strength
which deals with internal medicine in Ayurveda. In part 2, Ashwagandha butter and milk promoting)
Internal- Oral
formulation is prescribed as Lakshadi Tailam in-all kinds of fever,
tuberculosis, insanity, dyspnoea, epilepsy etc. For insanity, sarasvata
churna containing Ashwagandha, Saussurea costus (Falc.) Lipsch., Apium Table 1.
graveolens L., Cuminum cyminum L., Carum carvi L. etc. is recommended.
Another preparation-trayodasanga guggulu, containing Ashwagandha 7. Nighantus
and Acacia Arabica (Lam.) (Willd.), (Juniperus communis L.), Tinospora
cordifolia (Willd.) (Miers), Asparagus racemosus Willd. etc. is given to Nighantu is a unique composition in the field of Ayurveda, which
alleviate jaw-lock, disease of bone, bone marrow, ligaments, etc. consists of three natural origin substances used as food and drug in
Furthermore, Mahabala Taila consisting of Ashwagandha with other Ayurveda. It also comprise of basonym, synonyms, properties, action,
drugs is given orally to alleviate-hiccough, dyspnoea, etc. Similarly and therapeutic uses. Two kinds of nighantus are in popularity. The first
Madhyamanarayana Taila with other drugs is given orally, externally kind is having basonyms and synonyms of a Drug only and the second
and through anal route in paralysis, jaw lock, rigidity of the neck, throat kind consists of pharmaceutical properties with their uses along with
problem, kyphosis, deafness, tuberculosis chest pain, etc. The decoction basonym and synonyms. The examples of former are; Abhidhanar­
of Ashwagandha prepared with milk and clarified butter is prescribed atnamala, Astanga, Paryayaratnamala, Hridayadipaka etc. and the later are
after the menstrual period for progeny (Bhavamisra, 2010). The dosage Dhanvantari, Sodhala, Rajanighantu, Bhavaprakasa etc. The importance
forms, route of administration, therapeutic uses, and references of knowledge of nighantus is of utmost necessity for an Ayurvedic
retrieved from the above-cited Ayurvedic classics have been presented in

4
V.K. Joshi and A. Joshi Journal of Ethnopharmacology 276 (2021) 114101

physician to obtain the information of single uses of a referred drug and
also to understand the synonyms referred to in various formulations are
mentioned in various Ayurvedic classics. The most popular Nighantus
were studied chronologically for Ashwagandha. In Dhanvantarinighantu,
seven new synonyms have been included with their properties actions
and uses (Kamath, 2002). The tradition continued in later nighantus
where a few new synonyms have to find a place in successive noted
nighantus of their times with their properties, action, and therapeutic
uses, which has been presented in Table 2.
8. Single and compound formulations of Ashwangdha in
Ayurvedic classics
It is worth to mention here that a sizable number of single and
compound formulations are seen in Ayurvedic classical works. Of them,
good numbers have the name of the formulations beginning with Ash­
wagandha. The name of such formulation, the number of ingredients in
them, their action, and therapeutic uses with references are presented in
Table 3.
9. Ashwagandha in the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India
10. Scientific evidence of the experience-based classical uses of
Ashwagandha
On review, it was recorded that the following biochemical & phar­
macological activity has been published:
10.1. Physical and mental strength promoter (Balya)
The nutritional composition of Ashwagandha root powder by
chemical analysis was studied and found as to contain moisture 7.45%,
ash 4.41 g, Protein 3.9 g, Fat 0.3 g, crude fiber 32.3 g, energy 245 Kcal,
carbohydrate 49.9 g, Iron 3.3 mg, calcium 23 mg, carotene 75.7 μg and
Vitamin C 5.8 mg in Per 100 g (Kumari and Gupta (2016)). This shows
that Ashwagandha consists of balanced nutritional elements and thus
prescribed for strengthening and development of the body parts as well
as the bulkiness of the body by proper growth of the muscle tissues in
Charaka Samhita and other Ayurvedic texts. Also, an antidepressant
activity was observed in the forced swim-induced ‘behavioral despair’
and ‘learned helplessness’ tests (Bhattacharya et al., 2000). Thus, by
allying the depression mental strength is obtained.

10.2. Anti-poison (Visaghna)

Ashwagandha is included as a monograph in Ayurvedic Pharmaco­
poeia of India Part I, Volume 1 and mentioned along with its definition,
Various studies have justified the traditional claim of Ashwgandha as
synonyms, macroscopic and microscopic description, identity, purity
anti-poison. Phospholipases A2 (PLA2s) are generally found in snake
and strength, assay, constituents, properties and activities, important
venoms exhibiting pharmacological and physiopathological effects in
formulations, therapeutic uses and dose.
living organisms. PLA2s inhibitors act through various mechanisms
While in the Ayurvedic Formulary of India Part I, II, and III the
either by binding to particular domains or by denaturation and through
compound formulations Ashwagandha have been described, which
alteration of specific amino acid residues. Phospholipase inhibitor an
include Asvagandhadyrista and Asvagandhadi Lehya (AFI, Part I) (Anon­
acidic glycoprotein identical to α protein of snake serum has been pu­
ymous, 2003); Asvagandhadi Churna (AFI, Part II) (Anonymous, 2000),
rified from Withania somnifera. This acts as neutralizer of enzymatic
Asvgandha Taila (AFI, Part II) and Asvagandhadi Churna (AFI, Part III
activity and pharmacological effects including cytotoxicity, edema, and
Hindi version) (Anonymous, 2011a). Each of the formulation consisting
myotoxicity of a multi-toxic Indian cobra venom phospholipase
of original Sanskrit texts, constituents of the formulation with their
(NNXIa–PLA) as a complex is formed between the Phospholipase in­
useful parts, proportions, the general method of preparation, dosage,
hibitor and the toxic phospholipase thus inhibiting the enzymatic ac­
and therapeutic uses are specified.
tivity. Evalution of PLA2s inhibitors give an insight in understanding the
In the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India Part-I, Vol. VIII (Anony­
mechanism of PLA2s and their function in envenomations due to snake
mous, 2011b), the standards of 15 most popular medicinal plants used in
bite, therefore, PLA2 inhibitors play an important role in determining
Ayurvedic classics have been published under Rule 158 (B) clause IV of
molecular model against these enzyme for establishing treatment
the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. Of them, the Aushadh Ghana of
module (Deepa and Gowda, 2002; Marcussi et al., 2007).
Ashwagandha is also included in the Pharmacopoeia which mentions
aqueous extract, hydro-alcoholic extract, and other than the aqueous
and hydro-alcoholic extracts both in wet and dry form. 10.3. Anti-epileptic (Apasmara Hara)

Ashwagandha has shown its protective effect in epilepsy via

GABAergic mediation as it produces significant protection against
Pentylenetetrazol induced chemical kindling (Kulkarni and George,

Table 2
Synonym of Ashwagandha, its properties & action and therapeutic uses as mentioned in noted Nighantus.
Name of the Nighantu Synonym of Ashwagandha in Ayurvedic Properties and action Therapeutic uses
Classics

Dhanvantarinighantu (1000 A.D.)
Kaiyadevanighantu
(Pathyapathyavibodhaka)
(1425 A.D.)
Bhavaprakasanighantu (1600 A.
D.)
Rajanighantu (1700 A.D.)
Saraswatinighantu (1918 A.D.)
Vajigandha, Kanchuka, Asvarohaka,
Varahakarni, Turagi, Balya and Vajikari.
Kusthagandha, Hayahva, Asvavarohaka,
Varahakarni, Gokarni, Turagi, Varada, Vrisa,
Balya, Vajikari, Pita, Bahirapricha and
Kanchuki.
Hayahvaya, Varahakarni, Varada, Balada,
Kusthagandhini
Vajigandha, Kambukastha, Varahika,
Varahakarni, Turagi, Vanaja, Vajini and Hayi.
Hayahvaya, Varahakarni, Varada, Balada,
Kusthagandhini, Vaji.
Kasaya (astringent), Tikta (bitter) in Rasa (taste); Usna Poisoning, tuberculosis, fatigue
(hot) in Virya (potency); alleviates Visa (poison), Ksaya
(consumption); promotes- luster, energy and strength;
pacify Vata and Kapha- Doshas;
Astringent, bitter in taste; hot in potency; Vrisya Poisoning, inflammation, wound
(aphrodisiac), Rasayana (promotive therapy), Balya itching, vitiligo, worms, asthma,
(strength promoting); alleviates-Kapha,Vayu, tuberculosis and fatigue
Bitter and astringent in taste; hot in potency; Vitiligo, inflammation,
Strength promoting, promotive therapy and aphrodisiac; tuberculosis and wound.
alleviates Vata & Kapha
pungent and bitter in taste; hot in potency Weakness, tuberculosis and
Alleviates- Vata, Svasa and cough wound.
Bitter and astringent in taste; hot in potency; physical and Vitiligo, inflammation,
mental Strength promoting, and aphrodisiac; alleviates- tuberculosis and wound.
Vata and Kapha

5
V.K. Joshi and A. Joshi Journal of Ethnopharmacology 276 (2021) 114101

Table 3 Table 3 (continued )

Ashwagandha Formulations mentioned in various Ayurvedic classics. Name of the Number of Action/Therapeutic Ayurvedic
Name of the Number of Action/Therapeutic Ayurvedic formulation ingredients uses Textbook
formulation ingredients uses Textbook
Twenty Vajikara(aphrodiac), Bhaisajya
Ashwagandha One Balya (physical and Bhaisajya –four Bandhyahara (anti- Ratnavali
churna mental strength Ratnawali sterility), Valipalita
promoting) and (grey hairs), Khalitya
Pushtikara (nourishing) (baldness), Timira
Ashwagandhadi Two Paustika (nourish), Sarangdhara (blindness), Kasa
churna Vajikarana Samhita (cough), Svasa
(aphrodisiac), Vali (dyspnoea), Hikka
(wrinkles) and Palita (hiccough) and Jvara
(grey hair) (fever)
Ashwagandhadi Six Sandhivata (arthritis), Bangasena Ashwagandha taila Seven Vardhana (enlarges), Bhaisajya
churna Rasayana (promotive Samhita Stana (breast), Linga Ratnavali
therapy/adaptogen), (penis) and Karnapali
Vali (wrinkles) and (pinna of the ear) -
Palita (grey hair) Ashwagandha taila Twenty five Raktapitta (internal Chakradatta
Ashwagandhadi Twenty-one Ksata(injury), Kshina Vrihatnighantu hemorrhage), Gadanigraha
churna (emaciated), Medodara Ratnakara Raktapradara
(obesity), Mandagni Yoga Ratnakar (mycorrhiza),
(diminished digestive Balavardhaka (enhance
fire), Sula (colic) and strength), Pushtikara
Balavardhaka (strength (nourishing),
promoter) Mansavriddhi (enhances
Ashwagandhadi Fourteen Kshaya (tuberculosis) Vrihatnighantu muscles), Retovikara
churna Ratnakara (semen disorder),
Ashwagandhadi Two Vajikarana Bangasena Yonivikara (vaginal
churna (aphrodisiac), Samhita disorder), Vranadosha
Ashwagandha yoga One Garbhakara (progeny Vrihatnighantu (wound disorder), and
promotive) Ratnakara Napunsakata
Ashwagandhadi Seventeen Kshaya (tuberculosis) Chakradatta (impotency)
kvatha Ashwagandhadi Twenty one Sarva jvara hara (allay Yoga Ratnakara
Ashwagandha paka Thirty Prameha (turbid Yoga Ratnakara taila all kind of fever), Dhatu Vrihatnighantu
urination), Jirna Jvara Vrihatnighantu Pushti (nourishment of Ratnakara
(chronic fever), Sosha Ratnakara tissue) and Kshayaroga
(pulmonary (tuberculosis)
tuberculosis), Gulma Ashwagandh arishta Sixteen Apasmara (epilepsy), Bhaisajya
(intraabdominal Sosha (tuberculosis), Ratnawali
tumor), Vrisya Unmada (insanity),
(aphrodisiac), Pusti Krisa sarira (emaciated
(nourish), Kantivriddhi body), Arsa (piles),
(complexion- Mandagni (diminished
enhancing) and fire)
Agnisandipana Ashwagandhadi Six Param vranaropana Bangasena
(enhances digestive fire) lepa (best wound healer) Samhita
Ashwagandha paka Thirty- Mandagni (diminished Yogendra
seven fire), Brimhana Chintamani
(bulkiness of body), 1996).
Pustikara(nourishing)
for women,
Stantajanana 10.4. Anti-inflammatory, rheumatoid arthritis and wound healing
(galactagogue) and
Vajikarana(aphrodisiac)
(Sothaghna, Sandhisothaghna and Vranaropana)
Ashwagandhadi Twenty-one Ardita (facial paralysis), Bharat Bhaisajya
ghrita Hanustambha (jaw- Ratnakara The anti-inflammatory effects of Ashwagandha has been observed by
lock), Sandhivata several experimental trials and reported. Works have been reported with
(arthritis), Katigraha
the anti-inflammatory activity of Ashwagandha in experimental animal
(stiffness of waist),
Garbhadosa (impurities models as well as in vitro (Anbalagan and Sadique, 1981; Chandra et al.,
of the pregnancy) and 2012a,b). The anti-inflammatory activity of Ashwagandha has been
Prasavadosa (impurities attributed by its ability to inhibit the release of the primary inflamma­
of delivery), Sukradosa tory mediators including histamine, 5-HT, and prostaglandins (Sahni
(impurities of semen),
all Vatika diseases and
and Srivastava, 1993). Studies demonstrated that Ashwagandha has the
best Vajikarana potential in reducing the arthritic effects in collagen-induced arthritic
(aphrodisiac) rats due to its anti-inflammatory ability. Thus, it has a potential role in
Ashwagandha ghrita Three Balavardhaka Vrihatnighantu the treatment and can be used as a therapeutic strategy for the treatment
(strengthening) and Ratnakara
of rheumatoid arthritis (Gupta and Singh, 2014). Ashwagandha exhibits
Paushtika (nourishing) Gadanigraha
and for children anti-inflammatory activity by suppressing the NF-κB and MAPK path­
Ashwagandhadhya Three Vatavikara (Vatika Bhaisajya ways, and by modulating the cytokine expression in HaCaT cells. Also it
ghrita disorders), Vrisya Ratnavali acts by increasing mRNA expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine
(aphrodisiac) and TGF-β1 and decreasing the mRNA expression of the pro-inflammatory
Mamsavardhaka
(enhances muscles)
cytokine TNF-α in vivo thus acting as a potential wound-healing agent
Ashwagandha ghrita (Sikandan et al., 2018). All the above reports authenticate the use of
Ashwagandha as Sothaghna (anti-inflammatory) and Vranaropana
(wound healing) in Ayurveda since ancient times.

6
V.K. Joshi and A. Joshi
10.5. Parkinson’s disease (Kampavata)
It has been found that Ashwagandha is a potential herb in treating
catecholamines, oxidative damage and physiological abnormalities seen
in Parkinson’s disease mouse. These effects probably improve motor
neurons function and possibly results in walking effect as observed with
Ashwagandha treated mouse (RajaSankar et al., 2009). Ashwagandha
has demonstrated neuroprotective effects in 6-hydroxydopamine
induced Parkinsonism in rats where treatment reverses alteration in
behavioural deficits through unknown mechanism. As per reports it is
proposed that Ashwagandha increases the content of striatum dopamine
which in turn diminishes the effect of Parkinsonism in rats (Ahmad et al.,
2005; Bhatnagar et al., 2017). Another study indicated its protective
effect against MB–PQ induced nigrostriatal dopaminergic neuro­
degeneration with significant improvement in parameters like anatom­
ical, behavioral and biochemical deformities attributed to modulation in
oxidative stress and apoptotic machinery probably responsible for
behavioural effects (Prakash et al., 2013, 2014). The above documented
studies substantiate the neuroprotective role and use of Ashwagandha in
Kampavata (Parkinson’s disease) described in Ayurveda.
10.6. Anti-anxiety (chinta-Hara)
The anti-anxiety effect was as a result of its ability to reduce rat brain
levels of tribulin, an endocoid marker of clinical anxiety comparable to
Lorazepam. Also an antidepressant activity was observed in the forced
swim-induced ‘behavioral despair’ and ‘learned helplessness’ tests
(Bhattacharya et al., 2000). Furthermore, Ashwagandha has also found
to alleviate anxiety in human clinical trials for anxiety and stress (Pratte
et al., 2014). This confirms the use of Ashwagandha in Ayurveda in
Apasmara (epilepsy) and as mental strengthening in chinta (anxiety).
10.7. Memory and cognitive function (Medhya-Rasayana)
Ashwagandha when evaluated in improving memory and cognitive
functioning in adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) has been
found beneficial in improving and enhancing immediate and general
memory, executive function, attention, and information processing
speed in people with MCI (Choudhary et al., 2017b).
10.8. Anti-microbial activity (Jantughna)
Studies have reported Ashwagandha as an agreeable and potential
source in managing infectious diseases due to its antibacterial and
antimicrobial activity. Strong antibacterial activity was found against
Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus. It
was also found that Ashwagandha didn’t induce lysis of human eryth­
rocytes on incubation thus supporting safety on living cells in contrast to
synthetic antibiotics (like chloramphenicol) (Owais et al., 2005).
Another study indicated the potential antibacterial activity of Ashwa­
gandha against multidrug-resistant strains (Muddukrishnaiah and
Singh, 2015).
10.9. Adaptogen & immunity (Rogapratirodhaka & Rasayana)
Adaptogens are compounds that increase the ability of an organism
to adapt to environmental factors and avoid damage. Adaptogens are
effective in the reduction of stress reactions in the alarm phase, thereby
avoiding the exhaustion stage and providing a certain protection against
stress. Adaptogenic effect can also be described as a strengthening of the
physiological adaptation. Ayurveda explains these qualities under the
concepts of Vydhikshamatva (immunity). Studies have demonstrated to
enhance proliferation without genetic manipulation and the nontoxic
safe nature of the herb (Sanap et al., 2017). Also it is a potential herb
with immunomodulatory and adaptogenic activity, confirming the
traditional use of the plant in Ayurveda (Ziauddin et al., 1996; Davis and
7
Journal of Ethnopharmacology 276 (2021) 114101
Kuttan, 2000; Singh et al., 1982; Bhattacharya and Muruganandam,
2003).
11. Clinical trial studies on Ashwagandha
A good number of clinical studies have been on Ashwagandha have
been done, which are presented below in Table 4.
12. Discussion
Ashwagandha is one of the noteworthy substances of three natural
origins, utilized in Ayurveda (1000 BCE) since ancient times. The
tradition is much older as Ayurveda has its emergence from veda (the
source of knowledge)- Rigveda (3000 BCE) and Atharvaveda (1500 BCE).
Thus, the tradition is more than 5000 years old. This is a proven fact that
the plants, which find a place in those two Vedic compendia, are utilized
with additional therapeutic potentials. A few of the examples are Arka
(Calotropis procera), Karanja (Pongamia pinnata Pierre), Pippali (Piper
longum Linn.), Palasa (Butea monosperma (Linn.)) and Vasa (Adhatoda
vasica Nees) (Agnivesa and Charaka, 2007, Susruta, 2005). This long
tradition of uses of substances for health and healing in India is accepted
as Traditional Indian Medicine (TIM) by the World Health Organization.
In those two original scriptures of Ayurveda, its root is prescribed
following the seasonal collection to achieve the desired quality, safety,
and efficacy. Its most popular pharmaceutical form is powder and is
prevalent in continuous use since ancient times, which is expressive of
expediency. Although, it is prescribed by Ayurvedic physicians but now
also seen in the prescription of the practitioners of conventional medi­
cine. Even, it has become over the counter product in India and gaining
popularity as herbal medicine also in the other parts of the world. It is
also popular by other names i.e., Indian ginseng, winter cherry, and
Withania.
As outlined earlier from the comprehensive review of the available
noted Ayurvedic works, it is apparent that it is prescribed for; physical
and mental strengthening (Agnivesa and Charaka, 2007; Vagbhata,
2005; Maharaja Bhoja, 1924; Kaiyadeva, 1979; Bhavamisra, 2010;
Kamath, 2006), bulkiness promoting (Agnivesa and Charaka, 2007),
Aphrodisiac (Agnivesa and Charaka, 2007; Chakrapanidatta, 1994;
Vrinda, 2007), health promoter (Agnivesa and Charaka, 2007), nour­
ishment (Agnivesa and Charaka, 2007), safe-progeny (Vrinda, 2007;
Bhavamisra, 2010), enhancing milk in lactating mother, complexion
enhancing, development of muscles (Agnivesa and Charaka, 2007;
Chakrapanidatta, 1994; Vrinda, 2007); fertility promoter, energizers to
children, bronchial asthma, dyspnoea (Agnivesa and Charaka, 2007),
loss of sleep (Vangsena, 2000), erysipelas (Agnivesa and Charaka,
2007), baldness, wrinkles, grey hair (Sarangadharacarya, 2020),
arthritis, injury, obesity, enhancing digestive fire, colic, tuberculosis
(Agnivesa and Charaka, 2007; Susruta, 2005; Vrinda, 2007, 2007),
turbidity in urine (Mahakavi Sri Krishnaram Bhatta, 2008);
intra-abdominal tumor, facial paralysis, jaw-lock, arthritis, stiffness of
waist (Vangsena, 2000), blindness, cough, fever, internal hemorrhage,
female reproductive problems, semen disorder, wound disorder, impo­
tency and all Vatika disorders, nourishment to body retaining tissues etc.
(Agnivesa and Charaka, 2007; Susruta, 2005).
The rationale behind its use in the number of conditions can be un­
derstood as follows; chiefly, it is recommended to promote physical and
mental strength through proper formation of the Ojas. Ojas is defined as
the final and excellent essence of the seven Dhatus. This excellent
essence is expressive of physical and mental strength (Bala) in each
person.
Considering the above-stated facts about diverged uses, it has
attracted the pharmacologist, biochemist, and clinician to understand
the constituents responsible for therapeutic actions. On review of the
work carried on it, it was found that several major and other chemical
constituents have been reported by different scientist. Of them, the
major are as follows; withaferin A (Dalavayi et al., 2006), withanosides
V.K. Joshi and A. Joshi Journal of Ethnopharmacology 276 (2021) 114101

Table 4
Clinical Trial studies on Ashwagandha.
Activity Study Design Study Subjects Study dosage & duration Conclusion Author

Anti-stress Randomized, open- 40 patients with stress (N = 40). Ashwagandha granules orally at Best amongst the Rasayana Ashok and
labeled study Patients were randomly selected the dose of 10 gms twice a day for Dravya used in the study. Useful Shende (2015)
based on stress scores at 60 days in improving life quality as it
workplace stress enhances mental activity and
physical strength
Obsessive-compulsive Randomized double- 30 patients of confirmed 4 capsules a day for 6 weeks. Found to be a safe and effective as Jahanbakhsh
disorder (OCD) blind placebo- diagnosis with OCD an adjunct for OCD along with et al. (2016)
controlled trial SSRIs
Schizophrenia Randomized, 66 (n = 33 subjects in each Ashwagandha (1000 mg/d) for 12 Adjunctive treatment exhibited Chengappa
Double-Blind, treatment arm) Male or female weeks, add on to their significant results, with least side et al. (2018)
Placebo-Controlled patients aging between 18 and antipsychotic medication effects for the treatment of
Study. 75 years detected with DSM-IV- schizophrenia
TR schizophrenia or
schizoaffective disorder
Depression and anxiety Double-blind, 66 participants with recent Standardized Ashwagandha Showed positive results in the Gannon et al.
symptoms in persons randomized, exacerbations of schizophrenia extract 1000 mg for 12 weeks treatment of depression and (2019)
with schizophrenia placebo-controlled anxiety-related with
trial schizophrenia. Can be useful in
treating a broad spectrum of
symptoms in exacerbated
schizophrenia
Sexual Function in Double-blind, 50 female subjects meeting the High-concentration Ashwagandha When administered orally at a Dongre et al.
Female placebo-controlled, selection criterion root extract at a dose of one high-concentration improved (2015)
randomized, capsule (300 mg) was given two sexual function in healthy women
times per day orally for 8 weeks.
Spermatogenic Two-arm, double- 46 male aging between 22 and 1 capsule (containing 225 mg of a The study confirmed the use for Ambiye et al.
blind, randomized, 40 years with semen factor high-concentration full-spectrum treating oligospermia leading to (2013)
placebo-controlled, infertility were included in the root extract of the Ashwagandha) infertility
parallel-group study study was administered orally, thrice
daily for 12 weeks
Cognitive Dysfunction Random assignment, 60 euthymic subjects with DSM- Standardized Extract of Improves auditory-verbal Chengappa
in Bipolar disorder parallel-group, IV bipolar disorder were Ashwagandha 500 mg/d added working memory (digit span et al. (2013)
double-blind, enrolled adjunctively to the medications backward), a measure of reaction
placebo-controlled being used as maintenance time, and a measure of social
design treatment for bipolar disorder for cognition in bipolar disorder.
8 week
Insomnia and Anxiety Double-blind, 60 patients aging between 18 1 capsule containing highest The treatment helps to improve Langade et al.
Randomized, and 60 years with insomnia concentration full-spectrum the sleep quality and sleep onset (2019)
Placebo-controlled Ashwagandha root extract 300 mg latency in patients with insomnia
Study for 10 weeks twice daily thus helpful in patients with
anxiety and insomnia
Body Weight Double-Blind, 52 subjects with chronic stress Capsule of 300 mg of a Helpful in the management of Choudhary
Management in Randomized, standardized (containing 5% body weight of adults with et al. (2017a)
Adults Under Chronic Placebo-Controlled withanolides) Ashwagandha root chronic stress
Stress Trial extract, twice daily for 8 weeks
Stress-relieving Randomized, 60 eligible subjects 1 Capsules containing 240 mg of Exhibited stress-relieving activity Lopresti et al.
double-blind, an Ashwagandha extract (with 84 attributing to moderating effect (2019b)
placebo-controlled mg withanolide glycosides), once on the Hypothalamus-pituitary-
study daily for 60 days adrenal axis.
Safety of Ashwagandha Double-Blind, 50 subjects aging between 18 300 mg Capsule of Ashwagandha Showed substantial beneficial Sharma et al.
Root Extract in Randomized and 50 years with elevated root extract two times daily for 8 results for normalizing thyroid (2018)
Subclinical Placebo-Controlled serum thyroid-stimulating weeks indices in subclinical hypothyroid
Hypothyroid Patients Trial hormone (TSH) levels (4.5–10 patients
mIU/L) were randomized
Muscle strength and Randomized 57 young males (18–50 years 300 mg of Ashwagandha root Significantly increases muscle Wankhede
Recovery controlled trial old) extract two times daily for 8 weeks mass and strength which et al. (2015)
suggested its use in conjunction
with a resistance training
program
Chemotherapy-Induced Open-label 100 patients with breast cancer Ashwagandha root extract was Useful in treating cancer-related Biswal et al.
Fatigue and Quality of prospective non- in all stages undergoing either a administered to patients in the fatigue, as well as improves (2013)
Life in Breast Cancer randomized combination of chemotherapy study group at a dose of 2 g every quality of life
Patient comparative Trial with oral Withania somnifera or 8 h, throughout chemotherapy
chemotherapy alone treatment
Improving Memory and A prospective, Study was conducted on 50 Subjects were treated with either Useful in enhancing immediate Choudhary
Cognitive Functions randomized, double- adults Ashwagandha-root extract (300 and general memory, executive et al. (2017b)
blind, placebo- mg twice daily) or placebo for function, attention, and
controlled design eight weeks information processing speed in
people with mild cognitive
impairment
Sleep quality Randomized, 150 healthy subjects scoring 20 mg of standardized Helps to improve the overall Deshpande
double-blind, high on non-restorative sleep Ashwagandha extract once daily quality of sleep by significantly et al. (2020)
placebo-controlled measures for six weeks improving the Non-restorative
study
(continued on next page)

8
V.K. Joshi and A. Joshi Journal of Ethnopharmacology 276 (2021) 114101

Table 4 (continued )
Activity Study Design Study Subjects Study dosage & duration Conclusion Author

sleep condition in healthy

subjects.
Hormonal and Vitality A Randomized, Fifty-seven participants were Ashwagandha extract (600 mg 8 weeks of demonstrated Lopresti et al.
Effects in Aging Double-Blind, enrolled, with 50 people delivering 21 mg of withanolide significant improvement in (2019a)
Placebo-Controlled, completing the first 8-week glycosides a day) for 8 weeks salivary DHEA-S and
Crossover Study period of trial and 43 testosterone, but not cortisol and
completing all 16 weeks estradiol
Physical performance Randomized Forty healthy individuals of Standardized root extract of Useful in generalized weakness Sandhu et al.
and cardiorespiratory controlled, parallel- either sex Ashwagandha (dosage 500 mg/ and to improve speed and lower (2010)
endurance group, single- day) limb muscular strength and
blinded study neuro-muscular co-ordination
Tolerability, safety, and Prospective, open- 18 volunteers (12 M and 6 F) Ashwagandha capsules (aqueous Increasing dose from 750 to 1250 Raut et al.
activity labeled either sex in the age group of extract, 8:1) daily in two divided mg/day, was found to be well- (2012)
18–30 years doses with an increase in daily tolerated and was safe on
dosage every 10 days for 30 days hematological and biochemical
(750 mg/day × 10 days, 1000 mg/ organ function tests. The study
day × 10 days, 1250 mg/day × 10 also demonstrated muscle
days). strengthening, lipid-lowering,
and improved quality of sleep

I-VII (Matsuda et al., 2001), withanolides A, B and D (Misra et al., 2008;
Chaurasiya et al., 2008; Ganzera et al., 2003; Zhao et al., 2002), with­
anone and 17-hydroxy-27-deoxywithferin A (Chaurasiya et al., 2008).
The others are; D-glucopyranoside (withanoside VIII, IX and X), (Zhao
et al., 2002), withasomidienone (Atta-ur-Rahman et al., 1993), sitoin­
dosides VII- X, (Bhattacharya et al., 2000), glucosomniferonide (Kumar
et al., 2004), withasominine, (Schroter et al., 1966), piperidine and
pyrroidine alkaloids, (Schwarting et al., 1963).
In addition, various pharmacological studies have partially eluci­
dated the mechanism and use of Ashwagandha for different conditions.
Its ability to inhibit the release of histamine, prostaglandins, inflam­
matory mediators, pro-inflammatory mediators establishes it as a po­
tential molecule in inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis, and wound
healing (Sahni and Srivastava, 1993), (Gupta and Singh, 2014, Sikandan
et al., 2018). Furthermore, evidences have been found in the animal
model as a mood stabilizer in clinical condition like anxiety, depression,
and epilepsy while also, it improves memory and cognitive function
(Kulkarni and George, 1996). The other study reported it as physical and
mental health promoter (Kumari and Gupta, 2016), anti-poison (Deepa
and Gowda, 2002), Parkinson’s disease (RajaSankar et al., 2009),
anti-anxiety (Bhattacharya et al., 2000; Pratte et al., 2014), improving
memory and cognitive functioning (Choudhary et al., 2017b), strong
anti-microbial activity (Muddukrishnaiah and Singh, 2015), adapto­
genic and immunomodulatory activity (Sanap et al., 2017).
Alike to that the scientific validation in clinical cases corroborates
the experiential uses referred in Ayurveda have been confirmed as re­
ported in scientific published works, which are as follows; anti stress
(Ashok and Shende, 2015), Obsessive compulsive disorder (Jahan­
bakhsh et al., 2016), schizophrenia (Chengappa et al., 2013), depression
and anxiety symptoms in person with schizophrenia (Gannon et al.,
2019), sexual function in female (Dongre et al., 2015), spermatogenic
(Ambiye et al., 2013), cognitive dysfunction in bipolar disorder (Chen­
gappa et al., 2013), insomnia and anxiety (Langade et al., 2019), body
Weight management in adults under chronic stress (Choudhary et al.,
2017a), stress-relieving (Lopresti et al., 2019b), safety in subclinical
hypothyroid patients (Sharma et al., 2018), muscle strength and re­
covery (Wankhede et al., 2015), chemotherapy-induced fatigue and
quality of Life in breast cancer patient (Biswal et al., 2013), improving
memory and cognitive functions (Choudhary et al., 2017b), sleep quality
(Deshpande et al., 2020), hormonal and vitality effects in aging (Lopresti
et al., 2019a), physical performance and cardio respiratory endurance
(Sandhu et al., 2010) and tolerability, safety and activity (Raut et al.,
2012).
13. Conclusion
India has long tradition of experiential knowledge since ages and has
unfailing tradition, which is still continued from generation to genera­
tion through oral-tradition. Amongst them, the Traditional Indian
Medicine has its emergence from vedic compendia of ancient origin. The
benefit of the use of plant and their parts was initially observational
foundation in animals by primitive man in the afforest area. In the mean
time, the knowledge was transmitted to neighboring regions during
ancient times and a system was developed steadily. Later the traditional
uses of plants was developed by the than Indian seers and named it
Ayurveda-the science of life. One can find out rationale based uses of
hundreds of plants in Ayurvedic scriptures. Of them, Ashwagandha was
selected because of known around the world as Indian ginseng, which
shows its preciousness. Its root or radix is prescribed with clinical
experience by the ayurvedic physicians since ages. Its commonest form
powder is recommended to strengthen physical as well as mental health
and to maintain a healthy long life. Also to overcome the various dis­
orders the other pharmaceutical forms are either alone or in combina­
tions is prescribed. Observing its efficacy in Traditional Indian Medicine
the physicians of other systems of medicine also commonly prescribe
either its extract or powder in stress disorders and as an immune-
modulator. Some of the specific uses as ascribed in ayurvedic classics
were confirmed by modern scientific studies. Thus, it is obvious that the
drug Withania somnifera is used most efficiently in Indian Traditional
Medicine since ancient times. In view of the present scenario, it seems
that still there are all possibilities to explore those areas which have been
mentioned in Ayurvedic classics and used traditionally for their scientific
validation like; Svitra (vitiligo/lucoderma), Yakshma/Kshaya (tubercu­
losis), vali (wrinkle), Palita (graying of hair) and other areas for the
mankind at large around the globe.
Author contribution
List of the authors with their respective contributions to the study:
Prof. Vinod Kumar Joshi: Designed and written the entire manuscript.
Dr. Apurva Joshi: Conducted extensive literary review required for
the manuscript.
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