Phytochemical Analysis of Ashwagandha's Role in COVID-19 Review
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Phytochemical Analysis of Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) and its Role on Covid-19 –A Qualitative Review
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Arvind Kumar Mishra
AYUSH Doctor, State AYUSH Society, Second Floor, Biscomon Tower, West Gandhi Medaan, Patna, Bihar.
S. Pavan Kumar
Associate Professor, Department of Post Graduate Studies in Dravyaguna, S.V. Ayurvedic College, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Phytochemical Analysis of Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) and its Role on Covid-19 –A Qualitative Review
Year: 2021 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v8i3.761
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The article discusses the phytochemical analysis of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), an Ayurvedic herb known for its numerous therapeutic benefits, especially in the context of managing COVID-19. With COVID-19 emerging as a global health crisis, various treatment strategies have been proposed, with a notable focus on bioactive natural compounds due to their safety and therapeutic potential. Ashwagandha has been traditionally used in various medicinal systems for its adaptogenic and immuno-modulatory properties, supporting its investigation as a possible therapeutic agent in combating COVID-19.
Therapeutic Properties of Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is recognized for its diverse pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, neuroprotective, and immune-boosting effects. The active compounds within Ashwagandha, primarily withanolides and alkaloids, have been studied for their potential to enhance immune function. Recent research highlights Ashwagandha’s capacity to interact with the key proteins involved in COVID-19, including the main protease of the virus, making it a candidate for future therapeutic developments in managing viral infections. Additionally, the herb has been associated with various benefits that enhance physical and mental health.
Role in Immune Modulation and COVID-19 Management
The Ministry of AYUSH in India has advocated for the use of Ashwagandha as an immunity booster during the pandemic. Studies utilizing molecular docking approaches have indicated that the bioactive compounds in Ashwagandha may inhibit the viral components that facilitate SARS-CoV-2 infection. Specifically, Withaferin A, a prominent withanolide, has shown potential in blocking the interactions between the virus and the host's ACE2 receptor—an important entry point for COVID-19. These findings suggest that Ashwagandha could serve dual purposes: enhancing overall immune support and targeting specific viral activities in COVID-19.
Conclusion
As the global community continues to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, the integration of traditional medicine such as Ashwagandha into modern treatment protocols presents a promising avenue for improving health outcomes. The herb's established historical use and emerging scientific evidence underscore its potential role in enhancing immunity and possibly aiding in the management of COVID-19. Ongoing research and clinical trials are essential to fully validate the effectiveness of Ashwagandha in this context, paving the way for a collaborative approach between conventional and alternative medicine in addressing health crises.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Ashwagandha and what are its benefits?
Ashwagandha, or Withania somnifera, is an ancient Ayurvedic herb known as a rejuvenator with benefits including anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory effects. It has been used traditionally for boosting immunity, enhancing physical and mental health.
How does Ashwagandha relate to COVID-19 treatment?
Studies suggest that Ashwagandha's phytochemicals, particularly withanolides, may inhibit SARS-CoV-2's main protease, offering potential therapeutic action against COVID-19. Its immunomodulatory properties can help improve the overall immune response in infected patients.
What are the key active constituents of Ashwagandha?
Key active constituents of Ashwagandha include withanolides, alkaloids, and steroidal lactones. Withaferin A and Withanolide D are particularly noted for their biological activities, contributing to its medicinal properties and potential therapeutic effects against various conditions.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Phytochemical Analysis of Ashwagandha's Role in COVID-19 Review”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Ashvagandha (Asvagandha, Ashwagandha, Ashvagamdha, Ashva-gandha):
Ashwagandha, also known scientifically as Withania somnifera, is a significant medicinal plant in Ayurveda. It is revered for its numerous health benefits including immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is used for rejuvenation, boosting immunity, and even as a potential therapeutic agent for COVID-19.
2) Withania somnifera:
Withania somnifera is the scientific name for Ashwagandha, an ancient medicinal herb highly valued in Ayurvedic, Unani, and Siddha medicine systems. This herb is studied for its bioactive withanolides which contribute to its therapeutic benefits like anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, particularly in the context of COVID-19.
3) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrta signifies clarified butter, similar to Ghrita, used in Ayurvedic formulations. It acts as a medium to deliver the medicinal effects of herbs like Ashwagandha effectively.
4) Taila (Thaila):
Taila denotes oil in Ayurveda. Medicinal oils prepared with herbs like Ashwagandha are used for various treatments such as massage or ingestion to invigorate the body, treat inflammations, and enhance muscle strength.
5) Medicine:
In the context of the article, 'medicine' refers to various therapeutic approaches including conventional antivirals, Ayurvedic treatments with herbs like Ashwagandha, and complementary alternatives used in the management and prevention of diseases like COVID-19.
6) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals are the bioactive compounds in plants, such as the withanolides in Ashwagandha, known for their therapeutic properties. These chemicals are researched for their efficacy in treating viral infections, including COVID-19, due to their immunomodulatory and antiviral potential.
7) Disease:
The term 'disease' in the article primarily refers to COVID-19, a respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Ashwagandha is being studied for its potential protective and therapeutic effects against such viral infections.
8) Ayus (Ayush):
AYUSH stands for Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. It represents traditional systems of medicine in India, and the Ministry of AYUSH promotes the use of herbal medicines like Ashwagandha for boosting immunity and managing COVID-19.
9) Drug:
Within the article, 'drug' encompasses both conventional pharmaceutical agents used in combating COVID-19 and herbal medicinal treatments like Ashwagandha. These drugs aim to manage symptoms, improve immunity, and provide therapeutic benefits against viral infections.
10) Mishra (Misra):
Arvind Kumar Mishra is one of the authors of the discussed article, contributing to the research on the phytochemical analysis and therapeutic potential of Ashwagandha against COVID-19.
11) Kumar:
S. Pavan Kumar is another author of the document, who works as an Associate Professor in the Department of Post Graduate Studies in Dravyaguna. He contributed to the qualitative review regarding Ashwagandha's role in COVID-19 management.
12) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana refers to Ayurvedic rejuvenators. Ashwagandha is categorized as a Rasayana for its holistic benefits in improving health, boosting immunity, and promoting longevity, making it significant in traditional medicine and COVID-19 management.
13) Indian:
Indian refers to the origin of traditional medicinal systems like Ayurveda, which utilizes plants like Ashwagandha. India's Ministry of AYUSH is actively promoting these treatments to improve immunity and manage conditions like COVID-19.
14) Milk:
Milk, often combined with Ashwagandha in Ayurvedic formulations, helps in delivering the herb's therapeutic benefits efficiently. It’s employed in preparations like Ashwagandha Ksirapaka to enhance absorption and efficacy.
15) Powder:
Powder refers to the powdered form of Ashwagandha root used in various Ayurvedic preparations for oral consumption. It's known for its ability to improve physical strength, reduce stress, and boost immunity.
16) Honey:
Honey is frequently mixed with Ashwagandha in Ayurvedic medicine to enhance its taste and therapeutic effectiveness. It is believed to improve the herb's absorption and beneficial properties.
17) Samhita:
Samhita refers to classical Ayurvedic texts that detail various medicinal formulations and treatments, including those involving Ashwagandha. These texts are invaluable for understanding traditional therapeutic practices.
18) India:
India is the country where the traditional medicine system of Ayurveda originated. It plays a central role in the promotion and use of herbal medicines like Ashwagandha for managing and preventing diseases such as COVID-19.
19) Roga:
Roga means disease within Ayurvedic terminology. Ashwagandha is used in the treatment of various rogas, including stress, inflammation, and viral infections like COVID-19 due to its therapeutic properties.
20) Bala:
Bala is another herb often used in combination with Ashwagandha in Ayurvedic formulations. It is known for its strengthening and rejuvenating properties, complementing Ashwagandha’s benefits.
21) Vata:
Vata is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, representing air and ether elements. Ashwagandha is often used to balance Vata dosha, alleviating symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, and inflammation.
22) Ghi (Ghee):
Ghee, or clarified butter, is used similarly to Ghrita in Ayurvedic preparations. It helps in delivering the medicinal benefits of herbs like Ashwagandha and is often used in various therapeutic formulations.
23) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological refers to the study of drug action. Ashwagandha’s pharmacological activities include anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antiviral effects, making it a potent herb for treating various ailments, including COVID-19.
24) Udararoga (Udara-roga):
Udara-roga refers to abdominal diseases in Ayurvedic medicine. Ashwagandha is mentioned for its use in alleviating such conditions due to its therapeutic properties.
25) Balataila (Bala-taila):
Bala-taila is an Ayurvedic medicinal oil prepared with the herb Bala. Ashwagandha is sometimes incorporated into similar formulations for enhanced therapeutic benefits, targeting neuromuscular conditions.
26) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are a group of phyto-constituents found in plants like Ashwagandha. They exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties, contributing to Ashwagandha's broad therapeutic potential.
27) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is the ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes balance and holistic health. Herbs like Ashwagandha are integral to Ayurveda for their rejuvenative, immunomodulatory, and stress-relieving properties.
28) Aranyaka:
Aranyaka refers to ancient Indian texts connected to the Vedas. The significance of Ashwagandha and its juice is mentioned in these texts, highlighting its historical medicinal use.
29) Granthi (Gramthi):
Granthi refers to glandular swellings or lumps in Ayurvedic medicine. Ashwagandha root paste (Kalka) is applied as a hot lepa to treat conditions like granthi due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
30) Vrishya (Vrsya):
Vrishya means aphrodisiac in Ayurveda. Ashwagandha is known for its vrishya properties, enhancing vigor, libido, and strength, thus contributing to its reputation as a rejuvenative herb.
31) Brihat (Brhat):
Brihat refers to major Ayurvedic texts or extensive formulations. ‘Brihat Ashwagandha Ghrita’ is an example where Ashwagandha is used prominently for its therapeutic benefits in comprehensive medicinal preparations.
32) Gandha (Gamdha):
Gandha means smell in Sanskrit. Ashwagandha's name stems from 'Ashva' (horse) and 'Gandha' (smell), referring to the herb's distinctive odor, reminiscent of a horse's sweat.
33) Cancer:
Cancer is mentioned in the context of Ashwagandha's potential anticancer properties. The herb has been traditionally used and researched for its ability to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
34) Bitter:
Bitter is one of the tastes attributed to Ashwagandha, which is known to have Tikta (bitter) and Katu (pungent) rasa, contributing to its therapeutic properties in Ayurveda.
35) Udara:
Udara refers to the abdomen or abdominal diseases in Ayurvedic terminology. Ashwagandha is advocated in traditional texts like Chakradutta for its beneficial effects on such conditions.
36) Curna:
Curna signifies a powdered form of Ayurvedic herbs. Ashwagandha Curna is used in various formulations to treat conditions like digestive issues, stress, and to boost overall health.
37) Kalka:
Kalka denotes a paste form of herbs used in Ayurvedic treatments. Ashwagandha Kalka is applied externally for conditions like glandular swellings (Granthi) and taken internally for rejuvenation.
38) Hastin (Hasti):
Hasti refers to elephants in Sanskrit. Mahagandha Hasti Agad is an Ayurvedic preparation that includes Ashwagandha and is used to impart vigorous strength akin to that of an elephant.
39) Patna:
Patna is the city in Bihar, India, where one of the authors, Dr. Arvind Kumar Mishra, is based. He is associated with the State AYUSH Society, contributing to the research on Ashwagandha.
40) Bihar:
Bihar is a state in India where one of the authors, Dr. Arvind Kumar Mishra, works at the State AYUSH Society in Patna. The state promotes the use and research of traditional medicines like Ashwagandha.
41) Horse:
Horse is part of the meaning behind the name Ashwagandha, derived from ‘Ashva’ (horse) and ‘Gandha’ (smell), indicating the herb’s characteristic odor and its ability to impart strength and vitality.
42) Sugar:
Sugar is often mixed with Ashwagandha in Ayurvedic formulations to improve taste and enhance the medicinal effects, making it palatable and effective, especially in promoting body strength.
43) Fever:
Fever is one of the conditions where Ashwagandha leaves are recommended for their therapeutic effects. The herb is known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
44) Death:
Death is mentioned in the context of severe outcomes of COVID-19. Ashwagandha is being researched for its potential to prevent or manage the disease, thereby reducing severe complications and fatalities.
45) Lepa:
Lepa refers to the external application of herbal paste in Ayurveda. Ashwagandha lepa, prepared from its root or leaf paste, is used for treating conditions like glandular swellings (Granthi) and inflammations.
46) Katu:
Katu is one of the tastes in Ayurveda, meaning pungent. Ashwagandha has Katu (pungent) rasa, contributing to its therapeutic properties, affecting metabolism, digestion, and enhancing immune responses.
47) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa signifies taste in Ayurveda. Ashwagandha possesses multiple rasas, including Tikta (bitter) and Katu (pungent), which play roles in its broad therapeutic applications.
48) Ritu (Rtu):
Ritu refers to seasons in Ayurveda. The seasonal appropriateness of using Ashwagandha, such as during Sisira Ritu, is mentioned to provide maximum Rasayana benefits and to rejuvenate the body effectively.
49) Leha:
Leha is a semi-solid Ayurvedic preparation, often involving herbs like Ashwagandha. Various formulations like Ashwagandhadi Leha are used to treat conditions such as strength and vitality deficiencies.
50) Ocimum sanctum:
Ocimum sanctum, also known as Tulsi, is another Ayurvedic herb studied alongside Ashwagandha. Tulsi has immunomodulatory and antiviral properties, making it relevant in the context of COVID-19 prevention and treatment.
51) Garbhadharana (Garbha-dharana):
Garbha-dharana refers to conception in Ayurveda. Ashwagandha is used in formulations to promote fertility and assist in Garbha-dharana due to its rejuvenating and strengthening properties.
52) Lakshaditaila (Laksaditaila, Lakshadi-taila):
Lakshadi-taila is a medicinal oil in Ayurveda that includes Ashwagandha among other ingredients. It is used for treating bone and joint-related ailments, enhancing strength, and rejuvenation.
53) Shankhapushpi (Sankhapuspi, Samkhapuspi):
Shankhapushpi is another herb used alongside Ashwagandha in Ayurvedic medicine to promote intellect, lifespan, stability, and strength. Together, they are potent in enhancing mental and physical well-being.
54) Mandukaparni (Manduka-parni, Mamdukaparni):
Mandukaparni, also known as Centella asiatica, is another Ayurvedic herb often used with Ashwagandha. It is known for its cognitive-enhancing and rejuvenative properties, complementing Ashwagandha’s benefits.
55) Kshirakakoli (Ksirakakoli, Kshira-kakoli):
Kshirakakoli is one of the Ashtavarga herbs in Ayurveda. Ashwagandha is sometimes used as a substitute for Kshirakakoli in Ayurvedic formulations, focusing on strength and rejuvenation.
56) Transmission:
Transmission of COVID-19 occurs through respiratory droplets and contact with infected surfaces. Ashwagandha's immunomodulatory properties are being researched to potentially inhibit viral transmission and improve resistance.
57) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a key area of study for Ashwagandha, known for its anti-inflammatory properties. The herb helps in reducing inflammatory responses in conditions like COVID-19, arthritis, and other ailments.
58) Dravyaguna (Dravya-guna):
Dravyaguna refers to the Ayurvedic study of medicinal properties of herbs. It is a field where Ashwagandha is extensively analyzed for its therapeutic benefits, as highlighted by the authors of the article.
59) Ashtavarga (Astavarga, Ashtan-varga):
Ashtavarga is a group of eight potent herbs in Ayurveda. Ashwagandha is sometimes used as a substitute for some Ashtavarga herbs due to its similar rejuvenative and strengthening properties.
60) Vandhyatva:
Vandhyatva means infertility in Ayurveda. Ashwagandha is used in formulations to treat infertility, enhancing fertility, and supporting Garbha-dharana properties through its rejuvenating effects.
61) Discussion:
'Discussion' in the article refers to the examination of Ashwagandha's therapeutic potential against COVID-19, its historical use, chemical constituents, pharmacological activities, and its relevance in modern healthcare practices.
62) Leucoderma:
Leucoderma, a condition causing loss of skin pigmentation, is among diseases where Ashwagandha is mentioned for its therapeutic benefits due to its anti-inflammatory and rejuvenative properties.
63) Science (Scientific):
Scientific in the article refers to the systematic study of Ashwagandha, including its classification, chemical constituents, and pharmacological properties, to validate its use in traditional and modern medicine.
64) Gandamala (Ganda-mala):
Gandamala refers to scrofula or tuberculous lymphadenitis in Ayurveda. Ashwagandha is used for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties in treating such glandular infections.
65) Kshirapaka (Ksirapaka, Kshira-paka):
Ksirapaka is a medicinal preparation involving milk, used to deliver the benefits of herbs like Ashwagandha effectively. It enhances the herb's absorption and efficacy in the body.
66) Mahasneha (Maha-sneha):
Mahasneha refers to a major oleaginous preparation in Ayurveda. Ashwagandha is used in several such formulations for its rejuvenative and therapeutic effects.
67) Haritaki:
Haritaki is another Ayurvedic herb often used with Ashwagandha for its complementary therapeutic benefits, including digestive health and rejuvenation.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 120]