Scientific basis for the therapeutic use of Withania somnifera (ashwagandha): a review.

摘要: OBJECTIVE: The objective of this paper is to review the literature regarding Withania somnifera (ashwagandha, WS) a commonly used herb in Ayurvedic medicine. Specifically, was reviewed for articles pertaining chemical properties, therapeutic benefits, and toxicity. DESIGN: This narrative format consists all publications relevant ashwagandha that were identified by authors through systematic search major computerized medical databases; no statistical pooling results or evaluation quality studies performed due widely different methods employed each study. RESULTS: Studies indicate possesses anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antistress, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, hemopoetic, rejuvenating properties. It also appears exert positive influence on endocrine, cardiopulmonary, central nervous systems. mechanisms action these properties are not fully understood. Toxicity reveal be safe compound. CONCLUSION: Preliminary have found various constituents exhibit variety effects with little associated These very encouraging should studied more extensively confirm other potential effects. Clinical trials using conditions conducted. (Altern Med Rev 2000;5(4) 334-346)