ISOLATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF WITHAFERIN-A FROM THE WITHANIA SOMNIFERA (ASHWAGANDHA)

Abstract

The research work is related to an improved process of isolation & characterization of Withaferin-A from withania somnifera (Sanskrit: Ashawagandha, English: Winter cherry). Withania somnifera, commonly known as Ashwagandha, is a valued herb in Ayurvedic medicine. Roots, leaves and preparations of the plant are traditionally used as tonic, hypnotic, sedative and diuretic. W. somnifera mainly contains withanolides including withaferin-A which are specific to the Solanaceae family. Withanolides are biologically active secondary metabolites present in roots and leaves of W.somnifera. In the present study, we have standardized the protocol for the isolation of Withaferin-A from the Ashwagandha punchang. Withaferin A possess anti-inflammatory and anti-stress properties. This study contains newer and conventional method of isolation of Withaferin-A from Withania somnifera as well Quantitative and qualitative techniques involved in the purification of the compound was followed throughout this research work. In this study, we have taken different trials based on hydro-alcoholic solvent composition. Based on different solvent extraction process pure 98% Withaferin-A was successfully isolated.