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Bharani KK, Devarasetti AK, Carey L, Khurana A, Kollipaka R, Hanuman DDV, Chetla VS, Banothu AK. Effects of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root extract on aging-related changes in healthy geriatric dogs: A randomized, double-blinded placebo-controlled study. Vet Med Sci 2024; 10:e1556. [PMID: 39078383 PMCID: PMC11288135 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.1556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM This study aimed to explore the clinical potential of Withania somnifera/ashwagandha root extract (ARE) to mitigate age-related changes in healthy geriatric dogs. We hypothesized that ARE can reduce the effects of advancing age, including physiological changes, immune response decline and susceptibility to diseases, by its immunomodulatory effects. METHODS A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted in Telangana, India, from July 2022 to September 2022. Twenty apparently healthy dogs, aged 8 years or older, were enrolled. The dogs were divided into two groups to receive ARE (15 mg/kg, once daily, orally) or a placebo control. Various parameters, including serum cortisol levels, haematological profiles, biochemical markers, antioxidant indicators and anti-inflammatory responses, were assessed at the initiation of study, day 30, and day 60. RESULTS The erythrocyte count and haemoglobin levels were significantly increased with ARE (p < 0.001), whereas leukocyte count decreased (p < 0.05). Moreover, significant decreases in important markers of liver function (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, albumin and globulin; p < 0.001 at day 60), as well as kidney function markers (creatinine and blood urea nitrogen; p < 0.001 at days 30 and 60), were observed in ARE-treated dogs compared to the placebo control group. In addition, the levels of markers of oxidative stress (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione and malondialdehyde) were significantly modulated by ARE intervention, indicating strong antioxidant effects. Interestingly, serum cortisol levels reduced significantly with ARE (p < 0.001). Compared to baseline, ARE significantly decreased key inflammatory markers, including interferon-γ, tumour necrosis factor-α, nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B cells and interleukin-10 (p < 0.001) levels at day 60. CONCLUSION In conclusion, the findings of this study suggest that ARE has adaptogenic properties in healthy geriatric dogs by improving haematological and biochemical profiles, enhancing antioxidant defence, reducing stress and modulating inflammatory responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kala Kumar Bharani
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and ToxicologyCollege of Veterinary Science (CVSc)PVNRTVUHyderabadTelanganaIndia
| | - Ashok Kumar Devarasetti
- Department of Veterinary BiochemistryCollege of Veterinary Science (CVSc)PVNRTVUWarangalTelanganaIndia
| | - Latha Carey
- Department of Veterinary Surgery & RadiologyCollege of Veterinary Science (CVSc)PVNRTVUWarangalTelanganaIndia
| | - Amit Khurana
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and ToxicologyCollege of Veterinary Science (CVSc), PVNRTVUHyderabadTelanganaIndia
| | | | - Donga Durga Veera Hanuman
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and ToxicologyCollege of Veterinary Science (CVSc)PVNRTVUHyderabadTelanganaIndia
| | - Vinaya Sree Chetla
- Department of Veterinary PhysiologyCollege of Veterinary Science (CVSc)PVNRTVUHyderabadTelanganaIndia
| | - Anil Kumar Banothu
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and ToxicologyCollege of Veterinary Science (CVSc)PVNRTVUHyderabadTelanganaIndia
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Raut A, Tripathi R, Marathe PA, Uchil DA, Agashe S, Rege N, Vaidya AB. Evaluation of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Ashwagandha) on Physical Performance, Biomarkers of Inflammation, and Muscle Status in Healthy Volunteers: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. Cureus 2024; 16:e68940. [PMID: 39381480 PMCID: PMC11460434 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.68940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/07/2024] [Indexed: 10/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sarcopenia is associated with chronic inflammation, a sedentary lifestyle, and ageing. However, there exists no drug, which is safe and effective for long-term use. Ashwagandha (Withaniasomnifera (L.) Dunal) has the potential to fill this therapeutic gap based on its efficacy and safety profile; hence, the present study was planned to evaluate its effect on inflammatory biomarkers and muscle status in healthy volunteers. METHODOLOGY A prospective, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study was conducted to evaluate the effects of Ashwagandha extract in healthy volunteers (February 2021 to May 2022) who received either Ashwagandha extract tablets 250 mg or a placebo twice daily for 60 days. The physical performance on a bicycle ergometer, inflammatory/muscle status biomarkers, body composition, reaction time, hemogram, and organ function tests was assessed at baseline, day 30, and day 60. RESULTS In the Ashwagandha group, there was a statistically significant (p<0.05) improvement in total distance travelled (Ashwagandha 2.85 ± 0.54 km vs placebo 2.16 ± 0.62 km), average speed achieved (Ashwagandha 25.6 ± 5.7 km/hour vs placebo 22.2 ± 5.48 km/hour) on a bicycle ergometer from the baseline visit (V3) to the last visit (V7) as compared to the placebo group. The observations on hand-grip strength, back-leg press, skeletal muscle mass, and VO2 max showed an increasing trend from V3 to V7, whereas the results of the three inflammatory markers (hs-C-reactive protein (CRP) mg/L; IL-6; TNF-alpha ) and the muscle marker (myostatin) revealed a decreasing trend from V3 to V7 in the Ashwagandha group. Ashwagandha extract was found to be safe in healthy volunteers as evidenced by the clinical profile, laboratory investigations, and reaction time test. CONCLUSION Ashwagandha extract supplementation was safe and effective in enhancing physical performance and strengthening muscle mass and could be a potential candidate for treating sarcopenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwinikumar Raut
- Clinical Research and Integrative Medicine Department, Kasturba Health Society, Medical Research Centre, Mumbai, IND
| | - Raakhi Tripathi
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics Department, King Edward Memorial Hospital and Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College, Mumbai, IND
| | - Padmaja A Marathe
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics Department, King Edward Memorial Hospital and Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College, Mumbai, IND
| | - Dinesh A Uchil
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics Department, King Edward Memorial Hospital and Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College, Mumbai, IND
| | - Shubhada Agashe
- Clinical and Endocrine Laboratory, Kasturba Health Society, Medical Research Centre, Mumbai, IND
| | - Nirmala Rege
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics Department, King Edward Memorial Hospital and Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College, Mumbai, IND
| | - Ashok B Vaidya
- Internal Medicine Department, Kasturba Health Society, Medical Research Centre, Mumbai, IND
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Guo S, Rezaei MJ. The benefits of ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera) supplements on brain function and sports performance. Front Nutr 2024; 11:1439294. [PMID: 39155932 PMCID: PMC11327513 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1439294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Ashwagandha or Withania somnifera is an herbal plant belonging to the Solanaceae family. Because of its wide range of phytochemicals, ashwagandha root extract has been used in numerous research studies, either alone or in conjunction with other natural plants, for various biomedical applications, which include its anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-stress, anti-tumor, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective properties. Additionally, it improves endothelial function, lowers reactive oxygen species, controls apoptosis, and improves mitochondrial function. These properties make it a useful treatment for a variety of conditions, including age-related symptoms, anxiety, neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, stress, arthritis, fatigue, and cognitive/memory impairment. Despite the numerous benefits of ashwagandha supplementation, there have been just four meta-analyses on the herb's effectiveness in treating anxiety, neurobehavioral disorders, impotence, and infertility. Moreover, no reviews exist that examine how ashwagandha affects antioxidant response and physical sports performance. Consequently, the goal of this study was to analyze the scientific literature regarding the effects of ashwagandha consumption on antioxidant response and athletic performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyi Guo
- College of Physical Education, LiaoNing Petrochemical University, Fushun, Liaoning, China
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Patwardhan B, Chaturvedi S, Tillu G, Deshpande S, Hegde BM. Danish ban on Ashwagandha: Truth, evidence, ethics, and regulations. J Ayurveda Integr Med 2024; 15:101028. [PMID: 38969606 PMCID: PMC11403136 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaim.2024.101028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/07/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Bhushan Patwardhan
- Ramkumar Rathi Patanjali Yoga Chair, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India.
| | - Sarika Chaturvedi
- Dr D Y Patil Medical College Hospital & Research Centre, Dr D Y Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune, Maharashtra - 411018, India
| | - Girish Tillu
- Ayush Centre of Excellence, Department of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
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Verma N, Gupta SK, Patil S, Tiwari S, Mishra AK. Effects of Ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera) standardized root extract on physical endurance and VO 2max in healthy adults performing resistance training: An eight-week, prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. F1000Res 2024; 12:335. [PMID: 38988644 PMCID: PMC11234080 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.130932.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Ashwagandha is a well-known Ayurvedic herb used for youthful vigor and wellbeing. This study investigated the effects of 600 mg standardized root extract (>5% withanolides) of Ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera) on muscle size, strength and cardiorespiratory endurance following resistance training. Methods In this eight-week, parallel-group, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study, 80 healthy male and female participants aged 18-45 years, who engaged in regular physical activity were randomly allocated in a 1:1 ratio to receive Ashwagandha (AG, n=40) 300 mg capsules twice daily for eight weeks, or identical placebo (PB, n=40). Seven (3 AG, 4 PB) participants were excluded due to poor compliance. All participants conducted eight-week resistance training. Study outcomes included muscle strength (1RM bench press and leg extension), muscle size (circumference of arm, chest and upper thigh) and cardio-respiratory endurance (VO 2max) assessed at baseline and at eight weeks. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to estimate adjusted differences based on sex, BMI and chest circumference at baseline. Results AG caused greater improvement in bench press (males: p = 0.0084; females: p = 0.0005), leg press (males: p = 0.0049; females: p = 0.018) and endurance (males: p <0.0001; females: p <0.0001) as compared to PB. Also, greater improvements in muscle girth for arm, chest and thigh were seen in both male and female participants with AG. No adverse events were reported in the study. Conclusions Eight weeks of AG root extract supplementation along with resistance training is effective in improving muscle strength, growth and endurance in both male and female participants. AG root extract could be a safer, effective and low-cost alternative for athletes to improve muscle endurance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narsingh Verma
- Physiology, King George’s Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226003, India
| | - Sandeep Kumar Gupta
- Internal Medicine, M V Hospital and Research Centre, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226003, India
| | - Sayali Patil
- Pharmacology, D. Y. Patil deemed to be University - School of Medicine, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400607, India
| | - Shashank Tiwari
- Physiology, King George’s Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226003, India
| | - Ashok Kumar Mishra
- Clinical Research, M V Hospital and Research Centre, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226003, India
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Kispotta S, Das D, Prusty SK. A recent update on drugs and alternative approaches for parkinsonism. Neuropeptides 2024; 104:102415. [PMID: 38402775 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2024.102415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease, often known as PD, is a more common age-related neurological disorder that affects a huge number of older adults worldwide. Parkinson's disease is predominantly a movement-related pathosis and is distinguished by the deposition of intra-neuronal aggregates, as the alpha-synuclein gene is expressed as Lewy bodies (LB) causing dopaminergic neurons to die. Stress in early life may contribute to the development of depression, and depression in patients may result in the development of Parkinson's disease as they mature. Depression is a non-motor condition that leads to motor symptoms, such as Parkinson's disease. PD Patients are currently utilizing a variety of other therapies like utilizing nutritional supplements, herbal remedies, vitamins, and massage. When a patient's functional ability is impaired, drug treatment is usually initiated according to the individual's condition and the severity of signs and symptoms. The current marketed anti-Parkinson drugs, has low brain distribution and failing to repair dopaminergic neurons or delaying the progression of the disease these negative effects were unavoidable. To overcome these disadvantages, this review considers the inclusion of drugs used in Parkinson's disease, focusing on strategies to reuse existing compounds to speed up drug development, their capacity to traverse the BBB, and drug dispersion in the brain. We look at cellular therapies and repurposed drugs. We also investigate the mechanisms, effectiveness, as well as safety of several new medications that are being repositioned for Parkinson's disease pharmacotherapy. In this study, we focus on global trends in Parkinson's disease research. We hope to raise awareness about the present state of major factors for disability worldwide, including yearly prevalence's from international and national statistics. The pathophysiology of Parkinsonism and also analyze existing therapies for Parkinson's disease, moreover new and innovative drug therapies, and to assess the prospects for disease modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sneha Kispotta
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Siksha O Anusandhan Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, India.
| | - Debajyoti Das
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Siksha O Anusandhan Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, India.
| | - Shakti Ketan Prusty
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Siksha O Anusandhan Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, India.
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Punukollu RS, Chadalawada AK, Siddabattuni K, Gogineni NT. A blend of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal root and Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench fruit extracts relieves constipation and improves bowel function: A proof-of-concept clinical investigation. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 318:116997. [PMID: 37543151 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (WS) and Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench (AE) are known as Ashwagandha and Okra, respectively, important herbs in traditional medicine for their diverse therapeutic values. WS root is an adaptogen that relieves stress and anxiety and promotes sleep. AE fruit or Okra is widely consumed as a vegetable and is traditionally used to treat diabetes, gastric irritations, ulcers, and obesity. AIM OF THE STUDY The present randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study aimed to establish a proof-of-concept evaluating the efficacy and tolerability of a proprietary blend of standardized extracts of WS root and AE fruit, CL18100F4 in relieving constipation and improving quality of life in adults. MATERIALS AND METHODS Forty-eight male and female participants (age: 25-60 years) with functional constipation (following Rome-III criteria) were randomized into placebo, 300 or 500 mg of CL18100F4 groups, and supplemented for fourteen consecutive days. RESULTS CL18100F4 supplementation significantly (p < 0.0001) reduced the Patient Assessment of Constipation-Symptoms (PAC-SYM), Patient Assessment of Constipation-Quality of Life (PAC-QOL), and Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) scores. CL18100F4 supplementation improved sleep quality and reduced stress (p < 0.0001). At the end of the study, CL18100F4-500 subjects showed significant increases in serum serotonin, gastrin, and interleukin-10 and decrease in interleukin-6 and cortisol levels. Participants' hematology, total blood chemistry, vital signs, and urinalysis parameters were within the normal ranges. No adverse events were reported. CONCLUSIONS This short-duration, single-site clinical investigation demonstrates that CL18100F4 supplementation is tolerable, helps relieve constipation, reduces stress, and improves gastrointestinal function, sleep quality, and general wellness in adults. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinical Trials Registry- India (CTRI/2020/11/029320); Registered on 24/11/2020. Available at: http://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/showallp.php?mid1=49391&EncHid=&userName=CL18100F4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raghu Sarath Punukollu
- Department of Urology, Aditya Multi Speciality Hospital, Guntur 522001, Andhra Pradesh, India.
| | - Arun Kumar Chadalawada
- Department of Clinical Research, Aditya Multi Speciality Hospital, Guntur 522001, Andhra Pradesh, India.
| | - Kalyani Siddabattuni
- Department of Clinical Research, Aditya Multi Speciality Hospital, Guntur 522001, Andhra Pradesh, India.
| | - Naga Tejaswi Gogineni
- Department of General Medicine, Aditya Multi Speciality Hospital, Guntur 522001, Andhra Pradesh, India.
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Vaidya VG, Gothwad A, Ganu G, Girme A, Modi SJ, Hingorani L. Clinical safety and tolerability evaluation of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Ashwagandha) root extract in healthy human volunteers. J Ayurveda Integr Med 2024; 15:100859. [PMID: 38154316 PMCID: PMC10784694 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaim.2023.100859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, known as Ashwagandha, is an adaptogen with significant importance in Ayurveda for its potential health benefits in strength ('balavardhan') and muscle growth ('mamsavardhan'). Despite numerous studies on its efficacy, limited research is reported on its clinical safety and tolerability in healthy individuals. OBJECTIVE This research evaluated the tolerability and safety of standardized Withania somnifera root extract (WSE) capsules (AgeVel®/Witholytin®) at 1000 mg/day dose upon oral administration in healthy male participants. METHOD A non-randomized, open-label, single-treatment clinical study included eighteen healthy male participants aged 18 to 60. The participants were administered a dose of 500 mg of the WSE capsules twice daily for four weeks. Each capsule contained not less than 7.50 mg of total withanolides. The study evaluated various indicators in a cohort of healthy participants throughout the trial, including vital signs, organ function tests, urine analysis, X-ray and ECG, cardiorespiratory endurance, body fat percentage, lean body weight, adverse events profile, and tolerability of the WSE capsules. RESULTS The participant's physical, hematological, and biochemical characteristics were normal, and no significant alterations or irregularities were observed in safety metrics like liver, kidney, and thyroid functions after administering AgeVel®/Witholytin®. CONCLUSION This study found that healthy male participants could consume a standardized WSE at a daily dosage of 1000 mg for four weeks without any adverse effects. Future research should focus on long-term safety assessments in male and female participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidyadhar G Vaidya
- Lokmanya Medical Research Centre and Hospital, Pune, 411033, Maharashtra, India
| | - Amol Gothwad
- Lokmanya Medical Research Centre and Hospital, Pune, 411033, Maharashtra, India
| | - Gayatri Ganu
- Mprex Healthcare Pvt. Ltd., Pune, 411057, Maharashtra, India
| | - Aboli Girme
- Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand, 388430, Gujarat, India
| | | | - Lal Hingorani
- Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand, 388430, Gujarat, India.
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Gómez Afonso A, Fernandez-Lazaro D, Adams DP, Monserdà-Vilaró A, Fernandez-Lazaro CI. Effects of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) on Hematological and Biochemical Markers, Hormonal Behavior, and Oxidant Response in Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review. Curr Nutr Rep 2023; 12:465-477. [PMID: 37428341 PMCID: PMC10444651 DOI: 10.1007/s13668-023-00481-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Ws) is a common herb plant that has been used for centuries to treat a wide range of conditions, particularly certain chronic diseases due to its antidiabetic, cardioprotective, antistress, and chondroprotective effects, among many others. No conclusive evidence, however, exists about the potential health effects of Ws in adults without chronic conditions. We aimed to evaluate the current evidence on the health benefits of Ws supplementation in healthy adults. RECENT FINDINGS: Based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we systematically reviewed studies indexed in Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed to assess the effects of Ws on hematological and biochemical markers, hormonal behavior, and oxidant response in healthy adults. Original articles published up to March 5, 2022, with a controlled trial design or pre-post intervention design, in which supplementation of Ws was compared to a control group or data prior to intervention were included. Among 2,421 records identified in the search, 10 studies met the inclusion criteria. Overall, most of the studies reported beneficial effects of the Ws supplementation, and no serious adverse events were reported. Participants supplemented with Ws displayed reduced levels of oxidative stress and inflammation, and counterbalanced hormone levels. No evidence of the beneficial effects of Ws supplementation on hematological markers was reported. Ws supplementation appears to be safe, may regulate hormone levels, and has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. However, further studies are needed to elucidate the relevance of its application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrián Gómez Afonso
- Faculty of Physical Activity Sport Sciences, European University of Madrid, 28670, Madrid, Spain
| | - Diego Fernandez-Lazaro
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Genética, Histología y Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Campus de Soria, Universidad de Valladolid, Soria, 42004, Spain.
- Grupo de Investigación Reconocido "Neurobiología", Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Valladolid, Valladolid, 47005, Spain.
| | - David P Adams
- University of Galway, University Road, Galway, H91 TK33, Ireland
| | - Aniol Monserdà-Vilaró
- Faculty of Physical Activity Sport Sciences, European University of Madrid, 28670, Madrid, Spain
| | - Cesar I Fernandez-Lazaro
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Navarra, 31008, Pamplona, Spain.
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, 31008, Pamplona, Spain.
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10
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Singh H, Yadav B, Rai AK, Srivastava S, Saiprasad A, Jameela S, Singhal R, Muralidharan S, Mohan R, Chaudhary S, Rana R, Khanduri S, Sharma BS, Chandrasekhararao B, Srikanth N, Dhiman KS. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and Shunthi (Zingiber officinale) in mild and moderate COVID-19: An open-label randomized controlled exploratory trial. Complement Ther Med 2023; 76:102966. [PMID: 37482107 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2023.102966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ayurveda interventions have been used for prophylaxis and care during the COVID-19 pandemic in India and have shown promising results in promoting early clinical recovery from COVID-19. OBJECTIVE To assess the efficacy and safety of Ashwagandha [Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal] tablet and Shunthi (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) capsule in mild and moderate COVID-19 compared to conventional standard care. METHODS A randomized controlled exploratory trial was conducted at a designated COVID-19 care center in India with 60 participants having mild or moderate COVID-19. Ashwagandha, two tablets (250 mg each), and Shunthi, two capsules (500 mg each) twice daily for 15 days, were given orally to the participants in the Ayurveda group (AG) and the control group (CG) received conventional standard care. The outcome measures included clinical recovery rate, the proportion of participants with negative RT-PCR assay for COVID-19 on day 7 and day 15, mean time to attain clinical recovery, change in pro-inflammatory markers, serum IgG for COVID-19, HRCT chest findings, disease progression and incidence of adverse events (AE). RESULTS A total of 60 participants were enrolled, and the data of 48 participants (AG = 25 and CG = 23) were considered for the statistical analysis. The mean time for clinical recovery was reduced by almost 50 % in the AG (6.9 days) compared to CG (13.0 days) (p < 0.001). The proportion of participants who attained viral clearance in AG was 76.0 % compared to 60.8 % in the CG (RR= 1.24, 95 % CI: 0.841, 1.851, p-value = 0.270). Changes in the pro-inflammatory markers, serum IgG for COVID-19, and HRCT chest findings were comparable in both groups, and no AE or disease progression was reported. CONCLUSIONS The Ayurveda interventions, Ashwagandha and Shunthi, can effectively reduce the duration of clinical recovery and improve time for viral clearance in mild and moderate COVID-19. These interventions were observed to be safe and well-tolerated during the duration of the trial. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinical Trial Registry of India - CTRI/2020/08/027224.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harbans Singh
- Department of Ayurveda, Central Ayurveda Research Institute, Patiala, Punjab, India
| | - Babita Yadav
- Department of Ayurveda, Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Ministry of Ayush, Govt. of India, India
| | - Amit K Rai
- Department of Ayurveda, Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Ministry of Ayush, Govt. of India, India.
| | - Sumit Srivastava
- Department of Ayurveda, Shri Dhanwantry Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ajv Saiprasad
- Department of Ayurveda, Regional Ayurveda Research Institute, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Sophia Jameela
- Department of Ayurveda, Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Ministry of Ayush, Govt. of India, India
| | - Richa Singhal
- Former Statistical Investigator, Biostatistical Unit, Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Ministry of Ayush, Govt. of India, India
| | - Sanuj Muralidharan
- Department of Ayurveda, Shri Dhanwantry Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Chandigarh, India
| | - Rijin Mohan
- Department of Ayurveda, Shri Dhanwantry Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Chandigarh, India
| | - Shikha Chaudhary
- Department of Ayurveda, Shri Dhanwantry Ayurvedic College and Hospital, Chandigarh, India
| | - Rakesh Rana
- Biostatistical Unit, Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Ministry of Ayush, Govt. of India, India
| | - Shruti Khanduri
- Department of Ayurveda, Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Ministry of Ayush, Govt. of India, India
| | - Bhagwan S Sharma
- Department of Ayurveda, Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Ministry of Ayush, Govt. of India, India
| | - Bhogavalli Chandrasekhararao
- Department of Ayurveda, Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Ministry of Ayush, Govt. of India, India
| | - Narayanam Srikanth
- Department of Ayurveda, Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Ministry of Ayush, Govt. of India, India
| | - Kartar S Dhiman
- Former Director-General, Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Ministry of Ayush, Govt. of India, India
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Witte K, Wolk K, Witte-Händel E, Krause T, Kokolakis G, Sabat R. Targeting Metabolic Syndrome in Hidradenitis Suppurativa by Phytochemicals as a Potential Complementary Therapeutic Strategy. Nutrients 2023; 15:3797. [PMID: 37686829 PMCID: PMC10490062 DOI: 10.3390/nu15173797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the appearance of painful inflamed nodules, abscesses, and pus-draining sinus tracts in the intertriginous skin of the groins, buttocks, and perianal and axillary regions. Despite its high prevalence of ~0.4-1%, therapeutic options for HS are still limited. Over the past 10 years, it has become clear that HS is a systemic disease, associated with various comorbidities, including metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its sequelae. Accordingly, the life expectancy of HS patients is significantly reduced. MetS, in particular, obesity, can support sustained inflammation and thereby exacerbate skin manifestations and the chronification of HS. However, MetS actually lacks necessary attention in HS therapy, underlining the high medical need for novel therapeutic options. This review directs attention towards the relevance of MetS in HS and evaluates the potential of phytomedical drug candidates to alleviate its components. It starts by describing key facts about HS, the specifics of metabolic alterations in HS patients, and mechanisms by which obesity may exacerbate HS skin alterations. Then, the results from the preclinical studies with phytochemicals on MetS parameters are evaluated and the outcomes of respective randomized controlled clinical trials in healthy people and patients without HS are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Witte
- Psoriasis Research and Treatment Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Interdisciplinary Group of Molecular Immunopathology, Dermatology/Medical Immunology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Inflammation and Regeneration of Skin, BIH Center for Regenerative Therapies, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Kerstin Wolk
- Psoriasis Research and Treatment Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Interdisciplinary Group of Molecular Immunopathology, Dermatology/Medical Immunology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Inflammation and Regeneration of Skin, BIH Center for Regenerative Therapies, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Ellen Witte-Händel
- Psoriasis Research and Treatment Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Interdisciplinary Group of Molecular Immunopathology, Dermatology/Medical Immunology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Torben Krause
- Psoriasis Research and Treatment Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Georgios Kokolakis
- Psoriasis Research and Treatment Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert Sabat
- Psoriasis Research and Treatment Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Interdisciplinary Group of Molecular Immunopathology, Dermatology/Medical Immunology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
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12
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Fakudze NT, Sarbadhikary P, George BP, Abrahamse H. Ethnomedicinal Uses, Phytochemistry, and Anticancer Potentials of African Medicinal Fruits: A Comprehensive Review. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1117. [PMID: 37631032 PMCID: PMC10458058 DOI: 10.3390/ph16081117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Africa is home to diverse medicinal plants that have been used for generations for the treatment of several different cancers and, presently, they are gaining interest from researchers as promising approaches to cancer treatment. This review aims to provide a comprehensive review of dietary and medicinal African fruits including their traditional uses, botanical description, ethnobotanical uses, bioactive phytochemical compositions, and anticancer properties investigated to date in vitro, in vivo, and in clinical studies. Data on recent updates concerning the traditional uses and anticancer properties of these fruits were collected from a myriad of available publications in electronic databases, such as Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, SpringerLink, and Google Scholar. The results suggest that approximately 12 native or commercially grown African fruits belonging to different plant species, including Tribulus terrestris, Xanthium strumarium, Withania somnifera, Xylopia aethiopica, Abelmoschus esculentus, Carissa macrocarpa, Carpobrotus edulis, Syzygium cumini, Kigelia Africana, Annona muricata, Persea americana, and Punica granatum, have been reported for their potential as treatment options for the management of cancer. We further found that approximately eight different fruits from native plant species from Africa, namely, Sclerocarya birrea, Dovyalis caffra, Parinari curatellifolia, Mimusops caffra, Carpobrotus edulis, Vangueria infausta, Harpephyllum caffrum, and Carissa macrocarpa, have been widely used for the traditional treatment of different ailments but somehow failed to gain the interest of researchers for their use in anticancer research. In this review, we show the potential use of various fruits as anticancer agents, such as Tribulus terrestris, Xanthium strumarium, Withania somnifera, Xylopia aethiopica, Abelmoschus esculentus, Carissa macrocarpa, Carpobrotus edulis, Syzygium cumini, Kigelia Africana, Annona muricata, Persea americana, and Punica granatum; unfortunately, not enough reported research data have been published to gain thorough mechanistic insights and clinical applications. Additionally, we discuss the possibility of the utilization of potential phytochemicals from fruits like Persea americana and Punica granatum in anticancer research, as well as future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paromita Sarbadhikary
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein, P.O. Box 1701, Johannesburg 2028, South Africa; (N.T.F.); (H.A.)
| | - Blassan P. George
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein, P.O. Box 1701, Johannesburg 2028, South Africa; (N.T.F.); (H.A.)
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Jadaun P, Harshithkumar R, Gaikwad SY, Seniya C, Borse S, Gawai AA, Chavan-Gautam P, Tillu G, Mukherjee A. Withania somnifera extracts induced attenuation of HIV-1: a mechanistic approach to restrict viral infection. Virol J 2023; 20:173. [PMID: 37537596 PMCID: PMC10401819 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-023-02130-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several anti-retroviral drugs are available against Human immunodeficiency virus type-1, but have multiple adverse side effects. Hence, there is an incessant compulsion for effectual anti-retroviral agents with minimal or no intricacy. Traditionally, natural products have been the most successful source for the development of new medications. Withania somnifera, also known as Ashwagandha, is the utmost treasured medicinal plant used in Ayurveda, which holds the potential to give adaptogenic, immunomodulatory, and antiviral effects. However, its effect on HIV-1 replication at the cellular level has never been explored. Herein, we focused on the anti-HIV-1 activity and the probable mechanism of action of hydroalcoholic and aqueous extracts of Withania somnifera roots and its phytomolecules. METHODS The cytotoxicity of the extracts was determined through MTT assay, while the in vitro anti-HIV-1 activity was assessed in TZM-bl cells against the HIV-1 strains of X4 and R5 subtypes. Results were confirmed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, using the HIV-1 p24 antigen assay. Additionally, the mechanism of action was determined through the Time of Addition assay, which was further validated through the series of enzymatic assays, i.e. HIV-1 Integrase, Reverse transcriptase, and Protease assays. To explore the role of the identified active metabolites of Withania somnifera in antiretroviral activity, molecular docking analyses were performed against these key HIV-1 replication enzymes. RESULTS The hydroalcoholic and aqueous extracts of Withania somnifera roots were found to be safer at the sub-cytotoxic concentrations and exhibited their ability to inhibit replication of two primary isolates of HIV-1 through cell-associated and cell-free assays, in dose-dependent kinetics. Several active phytomolecules found in Withania somnifera successfully established hydrogens bonds in the active binding pocket site residues responsible for the catalytic activity of HIV replication and therefore, signifying their role in the attenuation of HIV-1 infection as implied through the in silico molecular docking studies. CONCLUSIONS Our research identified both the hydroalcoholic and aqueous extracts of Withania somnifera roots as potent inhibitors of HIV-1 infection. The in silico analyses also indicated the key components of Withania somnifera with the highest binding affinity against the HIV-1 Integrase by 12-Deoxywithastramonolide and 27-Hydroxywithanone, HIV-1 Protease by Ashwagandhanolide and Withacoagin, and HIV-1 Reverse transcriptase by Ashwagandhanolide and Withanolide B, thereby showing possible mechanisms of HIV-1 extenuation. Overall, this study classified the role of Withania somnifera extracts and their active compounds as potential agents against HIV-1 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - R Harshithkumar
- ICMR-National AIDS Research Institute, Pune, 411026, MH, India
| | | | - Chandrabhan Seniya
- School of Biosciences, Engineering and Technology, VIT Bhopal University, Bhopal, 466114, MP, India
| | - Swapnil Borse
- CCIH-Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, AYUSH-Center of Excellence, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, 411007, MH, India
| | - Ashish A Gawai
- Anuradha College of Pharmacy, Buldana, 443201, MH, India
| | - Preeti Chavan-Gautam
- CCIH-Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, AYUSH-Center of Excellence, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, 411007, MH, India
| | - Girish Tillu
- CCIH-Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, AYUSH-Center of Excellence, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, 411007, MH, India
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Dadge SD, Tiwari N, Husain A, Verma S, Agarwal A, Garg R, Rath SK, Shanker K, Gayen JR. Simultaneous estimation of five biomarkers of neuroprotective herb Ashwagandha NMITLI-118R AF1 in rat plasma and brain using LC-ESI-MS/MS: Application to its pharmacokinetic and stability studies. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2023; 1228:123834. [PMID: 37481788 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2023.123834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Withania Somnifera (WS) is a popular nutritional supplement in the USA, Europe, and Asia, known for its pharmacological effects on neurological disorders. However, the bioanalytical method development, validation, and pharmacokinetics of WS NMITLI-118R AF1 biomarkers Withanolide A (WLD A), Withanone (WNONE), Withanolide B (WLD B), Withaferin A (WF A), and 12 Deoxywithastramonolide (12 DEOXY) in rats have not been comprehensively explored. This study aimed to develop and validate a sensitive and selective LC-ESI-MS/MS method for these biomarkers in male Sprague Dawley rats plasma and brain matrix. Rats were divided into eight groups, each containing five rats. A plant extract of NMITLI-118R AF1 at 50 mg/kg was orally administered to the rats for in-vivo pharmacokinetic investigation. All the analytes had a linear calibration curve (r2 > 0.999), and intra-day and inter-day precision (%) were found in the range of 2.46 - 13.71% and accuracy were within the acceptable range (±15%). The biomarkers of NMITLI-118R AF1 were found stable in in-vitro plasma and simulated gastro-intestinal fluids. The observed (Cmax) and (Tmax) values for the biomarkers in the systemic circulation were WLD A (5.59 ± 0.34 ng/mL, Tmax 1.00 ± 0.00 h), WNONE (6.28 ± 0.41 ng/mL, Tmax 0.95 ± 0.11 h), WLD B (6.45 ± 2.87 ng/mL, Tmax 0.95 ± 0.11 h), WF A (6.50 ± 0.27 ng/mL, Tmax 1.00 ± 0.00 h), and 12 DEOXY (5.68 ± 0.39 ng/mL, Tmax 1.00 ± 0.00 h). In contrast to the old method, our approach exhibits a lower limit of quantification (LLOQ), shorter run time (less than10 min), and enables the detection of WF A and WNONE in fresh rat plasma by other quantitative analysis of mass spectrometry (m/z) [M]+. Shows high sample volumes for both, larger plasma volumes, costlier sample collection techniques dried blood spot (DBS), more expensive solid phase extraction techniques (SPE) and longer analysis time 14 min. Moreover, our method requires a smaller sample volume 10 µL, offers faster analysis time 4 min, and achieves a higher sensitivity 1 ng/mL. This is the first report of a comprehensive study on in-vitro and in-vivo pharmacokinetics of NMITLI-118R AF1 biomarkers, which may aid in further pre-clinical and clinical trial investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shailesh D Dadge
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Jankipuram Extension, Lucknow 226031, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Neerja Tiwari
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Picnic Spot Road, Lucknow 226015, India
| | - Athar Husain
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Jankipuram Extension, Lucknow 226031, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Saurabh Verma
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Jankipuram Extension, Lucknow 226031, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Arun Agarwal
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Jankipuram Extension, Lucknow 226031, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Richa Garg
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Jankipuram Extension, Lucknow 226031, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Srikanta K Rath
- Toxicology & Experimental Medicine, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Jankipuram Extension, Lucknow 226031, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Karuna Shanker
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Picnic Spot Road, Lucknow 226015, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Jiaur R Gayen
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Jankipuram Extension, Lucknow 226031, India; Pharmacology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Jankipuram Extension, Lucknow 226031, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India.
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Mikulska P, Malinowska M, Ignacyk M, Szustowski P, Nowak J, Pesta K, Szeląg M, Szklanny D, Judasz E, Kaczmarek G, Ejiohuo OP, Paczkowska-Walendowska M, Gościniak A, Cielecka-Piontek J. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)—Current Research on the Health-Promoting Activities: A Narrative Review. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15041057. [PMID: 37111543 PMCID: PMC10147008 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15041057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, there has been a significant surge in reports on the health-promoting benefits of winter cherry (Withania somnifera), also known as Ashwagandha. Its current research covers many aspects of human health, including neuroprotective, sedative and adaptogenic effects and effects on sleep. There are also reports of anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, cardioprotective and anti-diabetic properties. Furthermore, there are reports of reproductive outcomes and tarcicidal hormone action. This growing body of research on Ashwagandha highlights its potential as a valuable natural remedy for many health concerns. This narrative review delves into the most recent findings and provides a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of ashwagandha’s potential uses and any known safety concerns and contraindications.
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Malík M, Tlustoš P. Nootropic Herbs, Shrubs, and Trees as Potential Cognitive Enhancers. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:plants12061364. [PMID: 36987052 PMCID: PMC10056569 DOI: 10.3390/plants12061364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Plant-based nootropics are a diverse group of natural drugs that can improve cognitive abilities through various physiological mechanisms, especially in cases where these functions are weakened or impaired. In many cases, the nootropics enhance erythrocyte plasticity and inhibit aggregation, which improves the blood's rheological properties and increases its flow to the brain. Many of these formulations possess antioxidant activity that protects brain tissue from neurotoxicity and improves the brain's oxygen supply. They can induce the synthesis of neuronal proteins, nucleic acids, and phospholipids for constructing and repairing neurohormonal membranes. These natural compounds can potentially be present in a great variety of herbs, shrubs, and even some trees and vines. The plant species reviewed here were selected based on the availability of verifiable experimental data and clinical trials investigating potential nootropic effects. Original research articles, relevant animal studies, meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and clinical trials were included in this review. Selected representatives of this heterogeneous group included Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst., Centella asiatica (L.) Urban, Eleutherococcus senticosus (Rupr. & Maxim.) Maxim., Ginkgo biloba L., Lepidium meyenii Walp., Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer, Paullinia cupana Kunth, Rhodiola rosea L., Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill., and Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal. The species are depicted and described, together with their active components and nootropic effects, and evidence of their efficacy is presented. The study provides brief descriptions of the representative species, their occurrence, history, and the chemical composition of the principle medicinal compounds, with uses, indications, experimental treatments, dosages, possible side effects, and contraindications. Most plant nootropics must be taken at optimal doses for extended periods before measurable improvement occurs, but they are generally very well tolerated. Their psychoactive properties are not produced by a single molecule but by a synergistic combination of several compounds. The available data suggest that including extracts from these plants in medicinal products to treat cognitive disorders can have substantial potential therapeutic benefits.
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Burns J. Common herbs for stress: The science and strategy of a botanical medicine approach to self-care. JOURNAL OF INTERPROFESSIONAL EDUCATION & PRACTICE 2023; 30:100592. [PMID: 36530213 PMCID: PMC9737923 DOI: 10.1016/j.xjep.2022.100592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Frontline healthcare workers have reported elevated levels of stress and increase prevalence of burnout symptoms since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. With these heightened levels of stress and burnout comes a need for more evidence-based interventions to address these symptoms earlier, in both a safe and effective way. Some common botanical medicines have a measurable effect on perceived stress, neurotransmitter levels, and circulating cortisol levels indicating their ability to modify the stress response. Botanical medicines are often relatively low cost, increasingly available in retail stores and online marketplaces, and show relatively low reports of adverse effects, making these medicinal herbs an important option for addressing work-related stress for healthcare workers.
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Atteeq M. Evaluating anticancer properties of Withaferin A—a potent phytochemical. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:975320. [PMID: 36339589 PMCID: PMC9629854 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.975320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Withaferin A is a C28 steroidal lactone derived from the plant Withania somnifera, commonly known as Ashwagandha. Withaferin A has received great attention for its anticancer properties noted in cancer cells of various origins. Extracts of Withania somnifera have been used in traditional Ayurvedic and Unani Indian medicine for their various pharmacological benefits. In recent years, Withania somnifera or Ashwagandha extract has become popularized as a health supplement marketed for its stress and anxiety reducing effects. Withaferin A is one of the most studied withanolides extracted from Withania somnifera that has gained great attention for its anticancer, anti-inflammatory, metabolic, and pro-apoptotic effects. Extensive in vivo and in vitro studies have depicted Withaferin A’s interactions with key role players in cancerous activity of the cell to exert its pro-apoptotic effects. Withaferin A interactions with NF-κB, STAT, Hsp90, ER-α, p53, and TGF-β have noted inhibition in cancer cell proliferation and cell cycle arrest in G2/M stage, ultimately leading to apoptosis or cell death. This review highlights pro-apoptotic properties of Withaferin A including generation of reactive oxidative species, Par-4 activation, endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER) induction, and p53 activation. Analysis of Withaferin A’s involvement in various oncogenic pathways leading to malignant neoplasm and its pharmacologic activity in conjunction with various cancer drugs provides promising evidence in therapeutic potential of Withaferin A as a cancer treatment.
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Esmaealzadeh N, Iranpanah A, Sarris J, Rahimi R. A literature review of the studies concerning selected plant-derived adaptogens and their general function in body with a focus on animal studies. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 105:154354. [PMID: 35932607 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adaptogens are generally referred to the substances, mostly found in plants, which non-specifically increase resilience and chances of survival by activation of signaling pathways in affected cells. PURPOSE This literature review was conducted to summarize the investigation, until March 2021, on selected adaptogenic plants and plant-derived substances. STUDY DESIGN Electronic databases were searched (up to March 2021) for in vitro and animal studies, as well as clinical trials. Moreover, all modes of action connected with the adaptogenic effects of plants and phytochemicals were collected. METHODS The search of relevant studies was performed within electronic databases including Scopus, Science Direct, PubMed, and Cochrane library. The most important keywords were adaptogen, plant, phytochemical, and plant-derived. RESULTS The most investigated medicinal herbs for their adaptogenic activity are Eleutherococcus senticosus, Panax ginseng, Withania somnifera, Schisandra chinensis, and Rhodiola spp., salidroside, ginsenosides, andrographolide, methyl jasmonate, cucurbitacin R, dichotosin, and dichotosininare are phytochemicals that have shown a considerable adaptogenic activity. Phytochemicals that have been demonstrated adaptogenic properties mainly belong to flavonoids, terpenoids, and phenylpropanoid glycosides. CONCLUSION It is concluded that the main modes of action of the selected adaptogenic plants are stress modulatory, antioxidant, anti-fatigue, and physical endurance enhancement. Other properties were nootropic, immunomodulatory, cardiovascular, and radioprotective activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niusha Esmaealzadeh
- Department of Traditional Pharmacy, School of Persian Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran P.O. Box 1417653761, Iran; PhytoPharmacology Interest Group (PPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Amin Iranpanah
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran; Kermanshah USERN Office, Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Jerome Sarris
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Westmead, NSW, Australia; The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health & The Professorial Unit, The Melbourne Clinic, Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Roja Rahimi
- Department of Traditional Pharmacy, School of Persian Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran P.O. Box 1417653761, Iran; PhytoPharmacology Interest Group (PPIG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.
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Malík M, Tlustoš P. Nootropics as Cognitive Enhancers: Types, Dosage and Side Effects of Smart Drugs. Nutrients 2022; 14:3367. [PMID: 36014874 PMCID: PMC9415189 DOI: 10.3390/nu14163367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Nootropics, also known as "smart drugs" are a diverse group of medicinal substances whose action improves human thinking, learning, and memory, especially in cases where these functions are impaired. This review provides an up-to-date overview of the potential effectiveness and importance of nootropics. Based on their nature and their effects, this heterogeneous group of drugs has been divided into four subgroups: classical nootropic compounds, substances increasing brain metabolism, cholinergic, and plants and their extracts with nootropic effects. Each subgroup of nootropics contains several main representatives, and for each one, its uses, indications, experimental treatments, dosage, and possible side effects and contraindications are discussed. For the nootropic plant extracts, there is also a brief description of each plant representative, its occurrence, history, and chemical composition of the medicinal part. Lastly, specific recommendations regarding the use of nootropics by both ill and healthy individuals are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pavel Tlustoš
- Department of Agroenvironmental Chemistry and Plant Nutrition, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, 165 00 Prague, Czech Republic
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Chauhan S, Srivastava MK, Pathak AK. Effect of standardized root extract of ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera) on well-being and sexual performance in adult males: A randomized controlled trial. Health Sci Rep 2022; 5:e741. [PMID: 35873404 PMCID: PMC9297375 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim In Ayurveda, ashwagandha is a popular plant for promoting youthful energy, longevity, and overall well-being. It is also an excellent aphrodisiac herb that aids in the improvement and maintenance of normal sexual health. The present study aims to evaluate the effect of ashwagandha root extract on improving sexual health in adult males. Methods In this 8-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, we investigated the aphrodisiac property of an ashwagandha root extract in adult males. Fifty participants with lower sexual desire were randomly allocated to take 300 mg of ashwagandha root extract or placebo capsules twice daily. Outcomes were measured using the derogatis interview for sexual functioning-male (DISF-M) questionnaire, serum testosterone, serum prolactin, and short-form survey-36 quality of life questionnaire before and after the intervention. Results Compared to placebo, ashwagandha root extract supplementation was associated with a statistically significant increase in the total DISF-M scores (mean difference -9.8; 95% confidence interval, -10.73 to -8.87; p < 0.0001; t-test). It was also associated with a statistically significant increase in serum testosterone levels (-66.52; -80.70 to -52.34; p < 0.0001; t-test). However, the prolactin level did not change after intervention in both the ashwagandha and placebo groups (-1.06; -2.78 to 0.66; p > 0.05). Conclusion These findings suggest that ashwagandha demonstrated a significant subjective perception of sexual well-being and assisted in increasing serum testosterone levels in the participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjaya Chauhan
- Department of PharmacologyNarayana Hrudayalaya Allied Health SciencesBangaloreKarnatakaIndia
| | - Manoj K. Srivastava
- Department of PsychiatryOm Surgical Centre and Maternity CentreVaranasiUttar PradeshIndia
| | - Anklesh K. Pathak
- Department of Clinical ResearchOm Research CentreLucknowUttar PradeshIndia
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22
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Saggam A, Kale P, Shengule S, Patil D, Gautam M, Tillu G, Joshi K, Gairola S, Patwardhan B. Ayurveda-based Botanicals as Therapeutic Adjuvants in Paclitaxel-induced Myelosuppression. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:835616. [PMID: 35273508 PMCID: PMC8902067 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.835616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression is one of the major challenges in cancer treatment. Ayurveda-based immunomodulatory botanicals Asparagus racemosus Willd (AR/Shatavari) and Withania somnifera (L.). Dunal (WS/Ashwagandha) have potential role to manage myelosuppression. We have developed a method to study the effects of AR and WS as therapeutic adjuvants to counter paclitaxel (PTX)-induced myelosuppression. Sixty female BALB/c mice were divided into six groups—vehicle control (VC), PTX alone, PTX with aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts of AR (ARA, ARH) and WS (WSA, WSH). The myelosuppression was induced in mice by intraperitoneal administration of PTX at 25 mg/kg dose for three consecutive days. The extracts were orally administered with a dose of 100 mg/kg for 15 days prior to the induction with PTX administration. The mice were observed daily for morbidity parameters and were bled from retro-orbital plexus after 2 days of PTX dosing. The morbidity parameters simulate clinical adverse effects of PTX that include activity (extreme tiredness due to fatigue), behavior (numbness and weakness due to peripheral neuropathy), body posture (pain in muscles and joints), fur aspect and huddling (hair loss). The collected samples were used for blood cell count analysis and cytokine profiling using Bio-Plex assay. The PTX alone group showed a reduction in total leukocyte and neutrophil counts (4,800 ± 606; 893 ± 82) when compared with a VC group (9,183 ± 1,043; 1,612 ± 100) respectively. Pre-administration of ARA, ARH, WSA, and WSH extracts normalized leukocyte counts (10,000 ± 707; 9,166 ± 1,076; 10,333 ± 1,189; 9,066 ± 697) and neutrophil counts (1,482 ± 61; 1,251 ± 71; 1,467 ± 121; 1,219 ± 134) respectively. Additionally, higher morbidity score in PTX group (7.4 ± 0.7) was significantly restricted by ARA (4.8 ± 1.1), ARH (5.1 ± 0.6), WSA (4.5 ± 0.7), and WSH (5 ± 0.8). (Data represented in mean ± SD). The extracts also significantly modulated 20 cytokines to evade PTX-induced leukopenia, neutropenia, and morbidity. The AR and WS extracts significantly prevented PTX-induced myelosuppression (p < 0.0001) and morbidity signs (p < 0.05) by modulating associated cytokines. The results indicate AR and WS as therapeutic adjuvants in cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akash Saggam
- AYUSH-Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India.,Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd., Pune, India
| | | | | | - Dada Patil
- Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd., Pune, India
| | | | - Girish Tillu
- AYUSH-Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Kalpana Joshi
- Department of Biotechnology, Sinhgad College of Engineering, Pune, India
| | | | - Bhushan Patwardhan
- AYUSH-Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
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Safety Evaluation in Healthy Colombian Volunteers of P2Et Extract Obtained from Caesalpinia spinosa: Design 3+3 Phase I Clinical Trial. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:7943001. [PMID: 35251213 PMCID: PMC8890855 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7943001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The polyphenol-enriched extract called P2Et derived from Caesalpinia spinosa (C. spinosa) had antitumor and immunomodulatory activities reported in breast cancer, leukemia, and melanoma. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and maximum tolerated dose of P2Et extract in Colombian healthy volunteers in a phase 1 clinical trial, open labelled, single-arm, dose-escalation design 3 + 3. Seven healthy volunteers were included; P2Et was administrated in capsules of 600 mg/d for 28 days. Analysis by intention to treat was performed. 4 volunteers showed adverse events and discontinued the intervention. 94.6% of AE were grade 1, and most of AE had a reasonable possibility of a relationship with the P2Et (83.8%). We found that the oral administration of P2Et is safe in healthy humans with a maximum tolerated dose of 600 mg/d. There was no severe toxicity; most of the adverse events were mild, without significant changes in the safety parameters evaluated.
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24
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Modi SJ, Tiwari A, Ghule C, Pawar S, Saste G, Jagtap S, Singh R, Deshmukh A, Girme A, Hingorani L. Pharmacokinetic Study of Withanosides and Withanolides from Withania somnifera Using Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). Molecules 2022; 27:1476. [PMID: 35268576 PMCID: PMC8912008 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27051476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Withania somnifera is a traditional Indian herb described under the 'Rasayana' class in Ayurveda, which gained immense popularity as a dietary supplement in the USA, Europe, Asia, and the Indian domestic market. Despite enormous research on the pharmacological effect of withanosides and withanolides, bioanalytical method development and pharmacokinetics remained challenging and unexplored for these constituents due to isomeric and isobaric characteristics. In current research work, molecular descriptors, pharmacokinetic, and toxicity prediction (ADMET) of these constituents were performed using Molinspiration and admetSAR tools. A rapid, selective, and reproducible bioanalytical method was developed and validated for seven withanosides and withanolides as per USFDA/EMA guidelines, further applied to determine pharmacokinetic parameters of Withania somnifera root extract (WSE) constituents in male Sprague Dawley rats at a dose of 500 mg/kg. Additionally, an ex vivo permeability study was carried out to explore the absorption pattern of withanosides and withanolides from the intestinal lumen. In silico, ADMET revealed oral bioavailability of withanosides and withanolides following Lipinski's rules of five with significant absorption from the gastrointestinal tract and the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. Upon oral administration of WSE, Cmax was found to be 13.833 ± 3.727, 124.415 ± 64.932, 57.536 ± 7.523, and 7.283 ± 3.341 ng/mL for withanoside IV, withaferin A, 12-Deoxy-withastramonolide, and withanolide A, respectively, with Tmax of 0.750 ± 0.000, 0.250 ± 0.000, 0.291 ± 0.102, and 0.333 ± 0.129 h. Moreover, at a given dose, withanoside V, withanolide B, and withanone were detected in plasma; however, the concentration of these constituents was found below LLOQ. Thus, these four major withanoside and withanolides were quantified in plasma supported by ex vivo permeation data exhibiting a time-dependent absorption of withanosides and withanolides across the intestinal barrier. These composite findings provide insights to design a clinical trial of WSE as a potent nutraceutical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siddharth J. Modi
- Analytical Development and Innovation Center, Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand 388435, Gujarat, India; (S.J.M.); (A.T.); (C.G.); (S.P.); (G.S.); (S.J.); (L.H.)
- New Product Development Department, Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand 388435, Gujarat, India;
| | - Anshuly Tiwari
- Analytical Development and Innovation Center, Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand 388435, Gujarat, India; (S.J.M.); (A.T.); (C.G.); (S.P.); (G.S.); (S.J.); (L.H.)
| | - Chetana Ghule
- Analytical Development and Innovation Center, Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand 388435, Gujarat, India; (S.J.M.); (A.T.); (C.G.); (S.P.); (G.S.); (S.J.); (L.H.)
| | - Sandeep Pawar
- Analytical Development and Innovation Center, Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand 388435, Gujarat, India; (S.J.M.); (A.T.); (C.G.); (S.P.); (G.S.); (S.J.); (L.H.)
| | - Ganesh Saste
- Analytical Development and Innovation Center, Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand 388435, Gujarat, India; (S.J.M.); (A.T.); (C.G.); (S.P.); (G.S.); (S.J.); (L.H.)
| | - Shubham Jagtap
- Analytical Development and Innovation Center, Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand 388435, Gujarat, India; (S.J.M.); (A.T.); (C.G.); (S.P.); (G.S.); (S.J.); (L.H.)
| | - Ruchi Singh
- New Product Development Department, Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand 388435, Gujarat, India;
| | - Amol Deshmukh
- Clinical Research and Intellectual Property Rights, Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand 388435, Gujarat, India;
| | - Aboli Girme
- Analytical Development and Innovation Center, Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand 388435, Gujarat, India; (S.J.M.); (A.T.); (C.G.); (S.P.); (G.S.); (S.J.); (L.H.)
| | - Lal Hingorani
- Analytical Development and Innovation Center, Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand 388435, Gujarat, India; (S.J.M.); (A.T.); (C.G.); (S.P.); (G.S.); (S.J.); (L.H.)
- New Product Development Department, Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand 388435, Gujarat, India;
- Clinical Research and Intellectual Property Rights, Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand 388435, Gujarat, India;
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25
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Chopra A, Chavan-Gautam P, Tillu G, Saluja M, Borse S, Sarmukaddam S, Chaudhuri S, Rao BCS, Yadav B, Srikanth N, Patwardhan B. Randomized, Double Blind, Placebo Controlled, Clinical Trial to Study Ashwagandha Administration in Participants Vaccinated Against COVID-19 on Safety, Immunogenicity, and Protection With COVID-19 Vaccine-A Study Protocol. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:761655. [PMID: 35252231 PMCID: PMC8888820 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.761655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vaccines have emerged as the most effective tool in the fight against COVID-19. Governments all over the world have rolled out the COVID-19 vaccine program for their populations. Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine (COVISHIELD™) is widely used in India. A large number of Indian people have been consuming various traditional medicines in the hope of better protection against COVID-19 infection. Several studies have reported immunological benefits of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) and its potential as a vaccine adjuvant. We propose to study the safety, immunogenicity and clinical protection offered by a 6-month regimen of Ashwagandha in participants who volunteer to be vaccinated against COVID-19 (COVISHIELDTM) in the ongoing national program of vaccination. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We designed a prospective, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled, two-arm, exploratory study on healthy volunteers receiving the COVISHIELDTM vaccine. The administration of Ashwagandha will begin within 7 days of the first or second dose of COVISHIELDTM. Primary outcome measure is immunogenicity as measured by SARS-CoV-2 spike (S1) and RBD-specific IgG antibody titres. Secondary outcome measures are safety, protective immune response and quality of life measures. All adverse events will be monitored at each time throughout the study. Participants will be tracked on a daily basis with a user-friendly mobile phone application. Following power calculation 600 participants will be recruited per arm to demonstrate superiority by a margin of 7% with 80% power. Study duration is 28 weeks with interim analysis at the end of 12 weeks. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval was obtained through the Central and Institutional Ethics Committees. Participant recruitment commenced in December 2021. Results will be presented in conferences and published in preprints followed by peer-reviewed medical journals. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION [www.ClinicalTrials.gov], identifier [CTRI/2021/06/034496].
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Preeti Chavan-Gautam
- Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Girish Tillu
- Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | | | - Swapnil Borse
- Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | | | - Susmita Chaudhuri
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI), Faridabad, India
| | - BCS Rao
- Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Science, New Delhi, India
| | - Babita Yadav
- Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Science, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Bhushan Patwardhan
- Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
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26
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Wang J, Zhang H, Kaul A, Li K, Priyandoko D, Kaul SC, Wadhwa R. Effect of Ashwagandha Withanolides on Muscle Cell Differentiation. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11101454. [PMID: 34680087 PMCID: PMC8533065 DOI: 10.3390/biom11101454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) is used in Indian traditional medicine, Ayurveda, and is believed to have a variety of health-promoting effects. The molecular mechanisms and pathways underlying these effects have not yet been sufficiently explored. In this study, we investigated the effect of Ashwagandha extracts and their major withanolides (withaferin A and withanone) on muscle cell differentiation using C2C12 myoblasts. We found that withaferin A and withanone and Ashwagandha extracts possessing different ratios of these active ingredients have different effects on the differentiation of C2C12. Withanone and withanone-rich extracts caused stronger differentiation of myoblasts to myotubes, deaggregation of heat- and metal-stress-induced aggregated proteins, and activation of hypoxia and autophagy pathways. Of note, the Parkinson’s disease model of Drosophila that possess a neuromuscular disorder showed improvement in their flight and climbing activity, suggesting the potential of Ashwagandha withanolides for the management of muscle repair and activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Wang
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 3058565, Japan; (J.W.); (H.Z.); (A.K.); (K.L.); (D.P.); (S.C.K.)
| | - Huayue Zhang
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 3058565, Japan; (J.W.); (H.Z.); (A.K.); (K.L.); (D.P.); (S.C.K.)
| | - Ashish Kaul
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 3058565, Japan; (J.W.); (H.Z.); (A.K.); (K.L.); (D.P.); (S.C.K.)
| | - Kejuan Li
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 3058565, Japan; (J.W.); (H.Z.); (A.K.); (K.L.); (D.P.); (S.C.K.)
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu 610066, China
| | - Didik Priyandoko
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 3058565, Japan; (J.W.); (H.Z.); (A.K.); (K.L.); (D.P.); (S.C.K.)
- Department of Biology, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Bangdung 40154, Indonesia
| | - Sunil C. Kaul
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 3058565, Japan; (J.W.); (H.Z.); (A.K.); (K.L.); (D.P.); (S.C.K.)
| | - Renu Wadhwa
- AIST-INDIA DAILAB, DBT-AIST International Center for Translational & Environmental Research (DAICENTER), National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Tsukuba 3058565, Japan; (J.W.); (H.Z.); (A.K.); (K.L.); (D.P.); (S.C.K.)
- Correspondence:
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Singh R, Goel S, Bourgeade P, Aleya L, Tewari D. Ayurveda Rasayana as antivirals and immunomodulators: potential applications in COVID-19. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:55925-55951. [PMID: 34491498 PMCID: PMC8422837 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-16280-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has been declared as a pandemic by the World Health Organization with rapid spread across 216 countries. COVID-19 pandemic has left its imprints on various health systems globally and caused immense social and economic disruptions. The scientific community across the globe is in a quest for digging the effective treatment for COVID-19 and exploring potential leads from traditional systems of healthcare across the world too. Ayurveda (Indian traditional system of medicine) has a comprehensive aspect of immunity through Rasayana which is a rejuvenation therapy. Here we attempt to generate the potential leads based on the classical text from Ayurveda in general and Rasayana in particular to develop effective antiviral and/or immunomodulator for potential or adjunct therapy in SARS-CoV-2. The Rasayana acts not only by resisting body to restrain or withstand the strength, severity or progression of a disease but also by promoting power of the body to prevent the manifestation of a disease. These Rasayana herbs are common in practice as immunomodulator, antiviral and protectives. The studies on Rasayana can provide an insight into the future course of research for the plausible development of effective management of COVID-19 by the utilization and development of various traditional systems of healthcare. Keeping in view the current pandemic situation, there is an urgent need of developing potential medicines. This study proposes certain prominent medicinal plants which may be further studied for drug development process and also in clinical setup under repurposing of these herbs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajeshwari Singh
- Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India, Janakpuri, New Delhi, 110058, India
| | - Sumeet Goel
- Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India, Janakpuri, New Delhi, 110058, India
| | - Pascale Bourgeade
- Chrono-Environnement Laboratory, UMR CNRS 6249, Bourgogne Franche-Comté University, F-25030, Besançon Cedex, France
| | - Lotfi Aleya
- Chrono-Environnement Laboratory, UMR CNRS 6249, Bourgogne Franche-Comté University, F-25030, Besançon Cedex, France.
| | - Devesh Tewari
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India.
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Cheah KL, Norhayati MN, Husniati Yaacob L, Abdul Rahman R. Effect of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract on sleep: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257843. [PMID: 34559859 PMCID: PMC8462692 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the effect of Ashwagandha extract on sleep. METHODS A comprehensive search was conducted in CENTRAL, MEDLINE, SCOPUS, Google Scholars, World Health Organization Trials Portal, ClinicalTrials.gov, Clinical Trial Registry of India, and AYUSH Research Portal for all appropriate trials. Randomized controlled trials that examined the effect of Ashwagandha extract versus placebo on sleep in human participants 18 years old and above were considered. Two authors independently read all trials and independently extracted all relevant data. The primary outcomes were sleep quantity and sleep quality. The secondary outcomes were mental alertness on rising, anxiety level, and quality of life. RESULTS A total of five randomized controlled trials containing 400 participants were analyzed. Ashwagandha extract exhibited a small but significant effect on overall sleep (Standardized Mean Difference -0.59; 95% Confidence Interval -0.75 to -0.42; I2 = 62%). The effects on sleep were more prominent in the subgroup of adults diagnosed with insomnia, treatment dosage ≥600 mg/day, and treatment duration ≥8 weeks. Ashwagandha extract was also found to improve mental alertness on rising and anxiety level, but no significant effect on quality of life. No serious side effects were reported. CONCLUSION Ashwagandha extract appears to has a beneficial effect in improving sleep in adults. However, data on the serious adverse effects of Ashwagandha extract are limited, and more safety data would be needed to assess whether it would be safe for long-term use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kae Ling Cheah
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Noor Norhayati
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Lili Husniati Yaacob
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
- * E-mail:
| | - Razlina Abdul Rahman
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
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Orabi MAA, Zidan SAH, Sakagami H, Murakami Y, Ali AA, Alyami HS, Alshabi AM, Matsunami K. Antileishmanial and lung adenocarcinoma cell toxicity of Withania somnifera (Linn.) dunal root and fruit extracts. Nat Prod Res 2021; 36:4231-4237. [PMID: 34520289 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2021.1973462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
This study aims to evaluate the anti-Leishmania major and the lung adenocarcinoma (A549) cytotoxicity of Withania somnifera root and fruit. The total extracts were obtained by homogenisation in aqueous MeOH, and the sub-extracts [n-hexane, ethyl acetate (EtOAc), n-butanol (n-BuOH), and methanol (MeOH)] were obtained by flash chromatography. The activity evaluation showed that n-BuOH sub-extracts from root and fruit exhibited noticeable antileishmanial promastigote properties. The n-hexane and EtOAc sub-extracts from both organs, and the MeOH sub-extract from the fruit exerted mild to moderate effects on the promastigotes. In-vitro growth-inhibitory test results on axenic amastigote and cytotoxicity testing on macrophages (RAW264.7), the parasite-host at the amastigote stage, revealed that the activity was mainly concentrated in the root EtOAc and n-BuOH sub-extracts and to a lesser extent the fruit MeOH and EtOAc, and the root n-hexane sub-extracts. Only the roots' EtOAc and n-BuOH sub-extracts demonstrated low cytotoxicity on the A549 cell line.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed A A Orabi
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Najran University, Najran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut-branch, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Sabry A H Zidan
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut-branch, Assiut, Egypt.,Department of Pharmacognosy, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Sakagami
- Meikai University Research Institute of Odontology (M-RIO), Sakado, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yukio Murakami
- Division of Oral Diagnosis and General Dentistry, Department of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Sciences, Meikai University School of Dentistry, Sakado, Japan
| | - Ashraf A Ali
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Najran University, Najran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Hamad S Alyami
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Najran University, Najran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali Mohamed Alshabi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Najran University, Najran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Katsuyoshi Matsunami
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, Japan
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Cannataro R, Carbone L, Petro JL, Cione E, Vargas S, Angulo H, Forero DA, Odriozola-Martínez A, Kreider RB, Bonilla DA. Sarcopenia: Etiology, Nutritional Approaches, and miRNAs. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9724. [PMID: 34575884 PMCID: PMC8466275 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sarcopenia, an age-related decline in skeletal muscle mass and function, dramatically affects the quality of life. Although there is a consensus that sarcopenia is a multifactorial syndrome, the etiology and underlying mechanisms are not yet delineated. Moreover, research about nutritional interventions to prevent the development of sarcopenia is mainly focused on the amount and quality of protein intake. The impact of several nutrition strategies that consider timing of food intake, anti-inflammatory nutrients, metabolic control, and the role of mitochondrial function on the progression of sarcopenia is not fully understood. This narrative review summarizes the metabolic background of this phenomenon and proposes an integral nutritional approach (including dietary supplements such as creatine monohydrate) to target potential molecular pathways that may affect reduce or ameliorate the adverse effects of sarcopenia. Lastly, miRNAs, in particular those produced by skeletal muscle (MyomiR), might represent a valid tool to evaluate sarcopenia progression as a potential rapid and early biomarker for diagnosis and characterization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Cannataro
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy;
- Galascreen Laboratories, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
- Research Division, Dynamical Business & Science Society, DBSS International SAS, Bogotá 110311, Colombia; (J.L.P.); (S.V.); (D.A.B.)
| | - Leandro Carbone
- Research Division, Dynamical Business & Science Society, DBSS International SAS, Bogotá 110311, Colombia; (J.L.P.); (S.V.); (D.A.B.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Salvador, Buenos Aires 1020, Argentina
| | - Jorge L. Petro
- Research Division, Dynamical Business & Science Society, DBSS International SAS, Bogotá 110311, Colombia; (J.L.P.); (S.V.); (D.A.B.)
- Research Group in Physical Activity, Sports and Health Sciences (GICAFS), Universidad de Córdoba, Montería 230002, Colombia
| | - Erika Cione
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy;
- Galascreen Laboratories, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Salvador Vargas
- Research Division, Dynamical Business & Science Society, DBSS International SAS, Bogotá 110311, Colombia; (J.L.P.); (S.V.); (D.A.B.)
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, EADE-University of Wales Trinity Saint David, 29018 Málaga, Spain
| | - Heidy Angulo
- Grupo de Investigación Programa de Medicina (GINUMED), Corporación Universitaria Rafael Núñez, Cartagena 130001, Colombia;
| | - Diego A. Forero
- Health and Sport Sciences Research Group, School of Health and Sport Sciences, Fundación Universitaria del Área Andina, Bogotá 111221, Colombia;
| | - Adrián Odriozola-Martínez
- Sport Genomics Research Group, Department of Genetics, Physical Anthropology and Animal Physiology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 48940 Leioa, Spain;
- kDNA Genomics, Joxe Mari Korta Research Center, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 20018 Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Richard B. Kreider
- Exercise & Sport Nutrition Lab, Human Clinical Research Facility, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA;
| | - Diego A. Bonilla
- Research Division, Dynamical Business & Science Society, DBSS International SAS, Bogotá 110311, Colombia; (J.L.P.); (S.V.); (D.A.B.)
- Research Group in Physical Activity, Sports and Health Sciences (GICAFS), Universidad de Córdoba, Montería 230002, Colombia
- kDNA Genomics, Joxe Mari Korta Research Center, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 20018 Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
- Research Group in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas, Bogotá 110311, Colombia
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Chopra A, Srikanth N, Patwardhan B. Withania somnifera as a safer option to hydroxychloroquine in the chemoprophylaxis of COVID-19: Results of interim analysis. Complement Ther Med 2021; 62:102768. [PMID: 34418550 PMCID: PMC8372474 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2021.102768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To study the efficacy and safety of Withania somnifera (WS, Ashwagandha) in the prophylaxis against COVID-19 in high risk health care workers (HCW) in comparison to hydroxychloroquine (HCQ). To evaluate the general physical and mental health benefits of Ashwagandha. Methods A 16 week randomized prospective, open-label, parallel efficacy, two arm, multi-centre study. The primary efficacy measure was ‘failure of prophylaxis’ as confirmed COVID-19 by quantitative Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) at any time during the study period. This study on 400 participants from three centres was designed to establish non-inferiority for WS to HCQ for prophylaxis against COVID-19 at 80 % power and significance p < 0.025, one-sided. The interim analysis was carried out on 160 participants after completion of 8 weeks. Results Participants in both the arms were well-matched at the baseline characteristics. Forty participants in the HCQ group and 26 participants in the WS group reported mild AE. The symptoms of confirmed COVID-19 were found to be 3.7 % (95 % CI 1.3–10.5 %) in the HCQ and 1.3 % (95 % CI 0.02–6.7 %) in the WS arm amongst the first 160 participants completing 8 weeks. Conclusion Our intent was to explore a safer option to HCQ. We report that WS was not found inferior to HCQ and its efficacy was within the 15 % non-inferiority margin set a priori. WS as an immunomodulator has other clinical benefits including reducing mental stress. The final report of this study is expected by end of August 2021.
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Joshi VK, Joshi A. Rational use of Ashwagandha in Ayurveda (Traditional Indian Medicine) for health and healing. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 276:114101. [PMID: 33831467 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Physalis somnifera L.) is a fairly known perennial shrub of Solanaceae family, and is used in Ayurveda- Traditional Indian Medicine (TIM), since ancient times. It is well known as Ashwagandha in Sanskrit language in Ayurvedic classics. Its Mula (root) is recommended for health and healing, and the number of single and compound formulation is prescribed rationally. It is believed that the species name-somnifera is coined based on popular use to "induce sleep" in Ayurveda. 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 meaningful 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 rationality 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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinod Kumar Joshi
- Department of Dravyaguna, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India.
| | - Apurva Joshi
- Ozone Pharmaceutical Ltd., Ozone House, Block A-3, 1 LSC, Janak Puri, New Delhi, India
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Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) for the treatment and enhancement of mental and physical conditions: A systematic review of human trials. J Herb Med 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hermed.2021.100434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Tiwari S, Gupta SK, Pathak AK. A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial on the effect of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera dunal.) root extract in improving cardiorespiratory endurance and recovery in healthy athletic adults. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 272:113929. [PMID: 33600918 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.113929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Ashwagandha is a reputed herb in traditional Ayurveda, used for various ailments and improving general well-being. Improved cardiorespiratory endurance can aid in attaining better physiological, metabolic, and functional abilities in humans. According to Ayurveda, Ashwagandha has such potential to improve human health. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Ashwagandha root extract in enhancing cardiorespiratory endurance in healthy athletic adults. MATERIALS AND METHODS Fifty healthy athletic adults were selected randomly and equally allocated to Ashwagandha and placebo groups. The Ashwagandha group received 300 mg of Ashwagandha root extract capsules, twice daily, for 8-weeks. Cardiorespiratory endurance was assessed by measuring the maximum aerobic capacity (VO2 max). Estimation of stress management was done through Total Quality Recovery Scores (TQR), Recovery-Stress Questionnaire for Athletes (RESTQ), and Daily Analysis of Life Demands for Athletes (DALDA) questionnaires along with the antioxidant level measurement. RESULTS At the end of the study, a statistically significant improvement in VO2 max outcome was observed in the Ashwagandha group when compared to the placebo group (P = 0.0074). The subjects in the Ashwagandha group also displayed a statistically significant increase at the end of the study when compared to the baseline (P < 0.0001). Significantly improved TQR scores were observed in the Ashwagandha group members compared to their placebo counterparts (P < 0.0001). DALDA questionnaire analysis in the Ashwagandha group was found statistically significant (P < 0.0001) compared to the placebo group. RESTQ assessment also yielded better outcomes, especially for fatigue recovery (P < 0.0001), lack of energy (P < 0.0001), and fitness analysis (P < 0.0001). The enhanced antioxidant level was significant (P < 0.0001) in the Ashwagandha group. CONCLUSION The present findings suggest that Ashwagandha root extract can successfully enhance cardiorespiratory endurance and improve the quality of life in healthy athletic adults. No adverse events were reported by any of the subjects in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shashank Tiwari
- OM Research Centre, SA-17/3, P-4, Sri Krishna Nagar, Paharia Ghazipur Road, Varanasi, 221002, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| | - Sandeep Kumar Gupta
- M V Hospital and Research Centre, 314/30 Mirza Mandi, Post Office, Chowk, Lucknow, 226003, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Saggam A, Limgaokar K, Borse S, Chavan-Gautam P, Dixit S, Tillu G, Patwardhan B. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal: Opportunity for Clinical Repurposing in COVID-19 Management. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:623795. [PMID: 34012390 PMCID: PMC8126694 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.623795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
As the COVID-19 pandemic is progressing, the therapeutic gaps in conventional management have highlighted the need for the integration of traditional knowledge systems with modern medicine. Ayurvedic medicines, especially Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, WS), may be beneficial in the management of COVID-19. WS is a widely prescribed Ayurvedic botanical known as an immunomodulatory, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and adaptogenic agent. The chemical profile and pharmacological activities of WS have been extensively reported. Several clinical studies have reported its safety for use in humans. This review presents a research synthesis of in silico, in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies on Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (WS) and discusses its potential for prophylaxis and management of COVID-19. We have collated the data from studies on WS that focused on viral infections (HIV, HSV, H1N1 influenza, etc.) and noncommunicable diseases (hypertension, diabetes, cancer, etc.). The experimental literature indicates that WS has the potential for 1) maintaining immune homeostasis, 2) regulating inflammation, 3) suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines, 4) organ protection (nervous system, heart, lung, liver, and kidney), and 5) anti-stress, antihypertensive, and antidiabetic activities. Using these trends, the review presents a triangulation of Ayurveda wisdom, pharmacological properties, and COVID-19 pathophysiology ranging from viral entry to end-stage acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The review proposes WS as a potential therapeutic adjuvant for various stages of COVID-19 management. WS may also have beneficial effects on comorbidities associated with the COVID-19. However, systematic studies are needed to realize the potential of WS for improving clinical outcome of patients with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akash Saggam
- AYUSH Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Kirti Limgaokar
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, Fergusson College (Autonomous), Pune, India
| | - Swapnil Borse
- AYUSH Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Preeti Chavan-Gautam
- AYUSH Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | | | - Girish Tillu
- AYUSH Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Bhushan Patwardhan
- AYUSH Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
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Singh N, Yadav SS, Rao AS, Nandal A, Kumar S, Ganaie SA, Narasihman B. Review on anticancerous therapeutic potential of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 270:113704. [PMID: 33359918 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Withania somnifera, commonly known as Ashwagandha, is an important medicinal herb belonging to family Solanaceae. It is widely used in folkloric and Ayurvedic medicines since antiquity. Traditionally, the plant is highly practiced throughout the globe as immunomodulator, anti-inflammatory, anti-stress, anti-parkinson, anti-alzheimer, cardio protective, neural and physical health enhancer, neurodefensive, anti-diabetic, aphrodisiac, memory boosting etc. The plant is also effective in combating various types of cancer and other related problems of colon, mammary, lung, prostate, skin, blood, liver and kidney. AIM OF THIS REVIEW The present review represents the critical assessment of the literature available on the anticancerous role of W. somnifera. The present study throws light on its diverse chemical compounds and the possible mechanisms of action involved. This review also suggests further research strategies to harness the therapeutic potential of this plant. MATERIALS AND METHODS The present review is the outcome of a systematic search of scientific literature about 'Withania somnifera and its role in cancer prevention'. The scientific databases viz. Google Scholar, Science Direct, Pubmed and Web of Science were searched from 2001 to 2019. Textbooks, magazines and newspapers were also consulted. This review summarizes all the published literature about its therapeutic potential for the treatment of different types of cancers. RESULTS W. somnifera has been widely used in traditional and ayurvedic medicines for treatment of numerous problems related to health and vitality. The plant is a reservoir of diverse phytoconstituents like alkaloids, steroids, flavonoids, phenolics, nitrogen containing compounds and trace elements. Withanolides are the major alkaloids which renders its anticancer potential due to its highly oxygenated nature. The plant is highly effective in combating various types of cancers viz. colon, mammary, lung, prostate, skin, blood, liver and kidney. Previous studies depict that this plant is more effective against breast cancer followed by colon, lung, prostate and blood cancer. Furthermore, from different clinical studies it has been observed that the active constituents of the plant like withaferin-A, withanolide-D have least toxic effects. CONCLUSION The present review confirms the various medicinal values of W. somnifera without any significant side effects. Withaferin-A (WA) and Withanolides are its most promising anticancer compounds that play a major role in apoptosis induction. Keeping in mind the anticancerous potential of this plant, it is suggested that this plant may further be investigated and more clinical studies can be performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neetu Singh
- Department of Botany, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124 001, India
| | - S S Yadav
- Department of Botany, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124 001, India.
| | - Amrender Singh Rao
- Department of Botany, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124 001, India
| | - Abhishek Nandal
- Department of Botany, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124 001, India
| | - Sanjiv Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ch. Bansi Lal University, Bhiwani, Haryana, India
| | - S A Ganaie
- Department of Botany, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124 001, India
| | - B Narasihman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124 001, India
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Bonilla DA, Moreno Y, Gho C, Petro JL, Odriozola-Martínez A, Kreider RB. Effects of Ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera) on Physical Performance: Systematic Review and Bayesian Meta-Analysis. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol 2021; 6:20. [PMID: 33670194 PMCID: PMC8006238 DOI: 10.3390/jfmk6010020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is considered a potent adaptogen and anti-stress agent that could have some potential to improve physical performance. This preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA)-based comprehensive systematic review and Bayesian meta-analysis aimed to evaluate clinical trials up to 2020 from PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases regarding the effect of Ashwagandha supplementation on physical performance in healthy individuals. Besides implementing estimation statistics analysis, we developed Bayesian hierarchical models for a pre-specified subgroup meta-analysis on strength/power, cardiorespiratory fitness and fatigue/recovery variables. A total of 13 studies met the requirements of this systematic review, although only 12 were included in the quantitative analysis. A low-to-moderate overall risk of bias of the trials included in this study was detected. All Bayesian hierarchical models converged to a target distribution (Ȓ = 1) for both meta-analytic effect size (μ) and between-study standard deviation (τ). The meta-analytic approaches of the included studies revealed that Ashwagandha supplementation was more efficacious than placebo for improving variables related to physical performance in healthy men and female. In fact, the Bayesian models showed that future interventions might be at least in some way beneficial on the analyzed outcomes considering the 95% credible intervals for the meta-analytic effect size. Several practical applications and future directions are discussed, although more comparable studies are needed in exercise training, and athletic populations are needed to derive a more stable estimate of the true underlying effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego A. Bonilla
- Research Division, Dynamical Business & Science Society—DBSS International SAS, Bogotá 110861, Colombia; (Y.M.); (C.G.); (J.L.P.)
- Research Group in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas, Bogotá 110311, Colombia
- Research Group in Physical Activity, Sports and Health Sciences (GICAFS), Universidad de Córdoba, Montería 230002, Colombia
- kDNA Genomics, Joxe Mari Korta Research Center, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 20018 Donostia, San Sebastián, Spain;
| | - Yurany Moreno
- Research Division, Dynamical Business & Science Society—DBSS International SAS, Bogotá 110861, Colombia; (Y.M.); (C.G.); (J.L.P.)
- Research Group in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas, Bogotá 110311, Colombia
| | - Camila Gho
- Research Division, Dynamical Business & Science Society—DBSS International SAS, Bogotá 110861, Colombia; (Y.M.); (C.G.); (J.L.P.)
| | - Jorge L. Petro
- Research Division, Dynamical Business & Science Society—DBSS International SAS, Bogotá 110861, Colombia; (Y.M.); (C.G.); (J.L.P.)
- Research Group in Physical Activity, Sports and Health Sciences (GICAFS), Universidad de Córdoba, Montería 230002, Colombia
| | - Adrián Odriozola-Martínez
- kDNA Genomics, Joxe Mari Korta Research Center, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 20018 Donostia, San Sebastián, Spain;
- Sport Genomics Research Group, Department of Genetics, Physical Anthropology and Animal Physiology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain
- Phymo Lab, Physiology and Molecular Laboratory, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Richard B. Kreider
- Exercise & Sport Nutrition Laboratory, Human Clinical Research Facility, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA;
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Mukherjee PK, Banerjee S, Biswas S, Das B, Kar A, Katiyar CK. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal - Modern perspectives of an ancient Rasayana from Ayurveda. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 264:113157. [PMID: 32783987 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, commonly known as Ashwagandha, is an important medicinal plant that has been used in Ayurvedic and indigenous medicine for more than 3000 years. According to Charaka Samhita, Susruta Samhita and other ancient texts, Ashwagandha is known as Balya (increases strength), Brusya (sexual performance enhancer), vajikari (spermatogenic), Kamarupini (libido-enhancing), Pustida (nourishing). AIM OF THE REVIEW This review article documented and critically assessed W. somnifera regarding its ethnopharmacology, traditional use, botanical description, phytochemicals present, pharmacological activities, clinical trials, and marketed formulations. MATERIALS AND METHODS The sources of information used in the study are traditional Ayurvedic books like Charaka Samhita, Susruta Samhita, Astanga Hridaya etc, government reports, dissertations, books, research articles and databases like Science-Direct, SciFinder, Web of Science, PubMed, Wiley Online Library, and ACS Publications on Ashwagandha and Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal. RESULTS Traditional uses of Ashwagandha in Ayurveda are very prominent in several texts where formulations with various dosage forms have been mentioned in Charaka Samhita, Susruta Samhita, Astanga Hridaya, different nighantus etc. The drugs were identified based on their composition containing Ashwagandha as one of the major ingredients and their medicinal uses. Phytochemical studies on W. somnifera revealed the presence of important chemical constituents such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, alkaloids, saponins, tannins, and withanolides. The phytochemicals showed various pharmacological activities like anti-cancer, immunomodulatory, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, anti-aging, anti-stress/adaptogenic and anti-diabetic. Various clinical trials show that the plant extract and its bioactive compounds are used in the prevention and treatment of many diseases, such as arthritis, impotence, amnesia, anxiety, cancer, neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases, and others. CONCLUSIONS Pharmacological data reviewed here revealed that W. somnifera is a potential source for the treatment of a wide range of diseases especially anxiety and other CNS disorders. From its ancient use to its modern application it has been proven to be non-toxic and effective clinically for human health and wellness. W. somnifera based herbal formulation has been marketed in the form of supplement, extract, capsule, powder etc. This review will be helpful to correlate the mechanism of action with the phytochemical profile of this well-known plant from Ayurveda.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pulok K Mukherjee
- School of Natural Product Studies, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, 700 032, India; Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development, A National Institute Under Dept. of Biotechnology, Govt. of India, Imphal, 795004, India.
| | - Subhadip Banerjee
- School of Natural Product Studies, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, 700 032, India.
| | - Sayan Biswas
- School of Natural Product Studies, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, 700 032, India.
| | - Bhaskar Das
- School of Natural Product Studies, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, 700 032, India.
| | - Amit Kar
- School of Natural Product Studies, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, 700 032, India.
| | - C K Katiyar
- Health Care Division, Emami Limited 13, BT Road, Kolkata, 700056, India.
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Afewerky HK, Ayodeji AE, Tiamiyu BB, Orege JI, Okeke ES, Oyejobi AO, Bate PNN, Adeyemi SB. Critical review of the Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal: ethnobotany, pharmacological efficacy, and commercialization significance in Africa. BULLETIN OF THE NATIONAL RESEARCH CENTRE 2021; 45:176. [PMID: 34697529 PMCID: PMC8529567 DOI: 10.1186/s42269-021-00635-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (W. somnifera) is a herb commonly known by its English name as Winter Cherry. Africa is indigenous to many medicinal plants and natural products. However, there is inadequate documentation of medicinal plants, including W. somnifera, in Africa. There is, therefore, a need for a comprehensive compilation of research outcomes of this reviewed plant as used in traditional medicine in different regions of Africa. METHODOLOGY Scientific articles and publications were scooped and sourced from high-impact factor journals and filtered with relevant keywords on W. somnifera. Scientific databases, including GBIF, PubMed, NCBI, Google Scholar, Research Gate, Science Direct, SciFinder, and Web of Science, were accessed to identify the most influential articles and recent breakthroughs published on the contexts of ethnography, ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and commercialization of W. somnifera. RESULTS This critical review covers the W. somnifera ethnography, phytochemistry, and ethnomedicinal usage to demonstrate the use of the plant in Africa and elsewhere to prevent or alleviate several pathophysiological conditions, including cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, reproductive impotence, as well as other chronic diseases. CONCLUSION W. somnifera is reportedly safe for administration in ethnomedicine as several research outcomes confirmed its safety status. The significance of commercializing this plant in Africa for drug development is herein thoroughly covered to provide the much-needed highlights towards its cultivations economic benefit to Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henok Kessete Afewerky
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 China
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 China
- School of Allied Health Professions, Asmara College of Health Sciences, 00291 Asmara, Eritrea
- Organization of African Academic Doctors, Nairobi, 00100 Kenya
| | - Ayeni Emmanuel Ayodeji
- Organization of African Academic Doctors, Nairobi, 00100 Kenya
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Drug Development, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, PMB 1044, Kaduna, 800211 Nigeria
| | - Bashir Bolaji Tiamiyu
- Organization of African Academic Doctors, Nairobi, 00100 Kenya
- Department of Plant Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, 240001 Nigeria
| | - Joshua Iseoluwa Orege
- Organization of African Academic Doctors, Nairobi, 00100 Kenya
- Department of Industrial Chemistry, Ekiti State University, PMB 5363, Ado-Ekiti, 362001 Nigeria
- Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian, 116023 China
| | - Emmanuel Sunday Okeke
- Organization of African Academic Doctors, Nairobi, 00100 Kenya
- Department of Biochemistry, FBS and Natural Science Unit, SGS, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, 410001 Nigeria
- School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013 China
| | - Aanuoluwapo Opeyemi Oyejobi
- Organization of African Academic Doctors, Nairobi, 00100 Kenya
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074 China
| | - Petuel Ndip Ndip Bate
- Organization of African Academic Doctors, Nairobi, 00100 Kenya
- Guangzhou Institute of Biomedicine and Health, Guangzhou, 510530 China
| | - Sherif Babatunde Adeyemi
- Organization of African Academic Doctors, Nairobi, 00100 Kenya
- Department of Plant Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, 240001 Nigeria
- C.G. Bhakta Institute of Biotechnology, Uka Tarsadia University, Bardoli-Mahuva Road, Bardoli, Surat, Gujarat 394350 India
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Panossian AG, Efferth T, Shikov AN, Pozharitskaya ON, Kuchta K, Mukherjee PK, Banerjee S, Heinrich M, Wu W, Guo D, Wagner H. Evolution of the adaptogenic concept from traditional use to medical systems: Pharmacology of stress- and aging-related diseases. Med Res Rev 2021; 41:630-703. [PMID: 33103257 PMCID: PMC7756641 DOI: 10.1002/med.21743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Adaptogens comprise a category of herbal medicinal and nutritional products promoting adaptability, resilience, and survival of living organisms in stress. The aim of this review was to summarize the growing knowledge about common adaptogenic plants used in various traditional medical systems (TMS) and conventional medicine and to provide a modern rationale for their use in the treatment of stress-induced and aging-related disorders. Adaptogens have pharmacologically pleiotropic effects on the neuroendocrine-immune system, which explain their traditional use for the treatment of a wide range of conditions. They exhibit a biphasic dose-effect response: at low doses they function as mild stress-mimetics, which activate the adaptive stress-response signaling pathways to cope with severe stress. That is in line with their traditional use for preventing premature aging and to maintain good health and vitality. However, the potential of adaptogens remains poorly explored. Treatment of stress and aging-related diseases require novel approaches. Some combinations of adaptogenic plants provide unique effects due to their synergistic interactions in organisms not obtainable by any ingredient independently. Further progress in this field needs to focus on discovering new combinations of adaptogens based on traditional medical concepts. Robust and rigorous approaches including network pharmacology and systems pharmacology could help in analyzing potential synergistic effects and, more broadly, future uses of adaptogens. In conclusion, the evolution of the adaptogenic concept has led back to basics of TMS and a new level of understanding of holistic approach. It provides a rationale for their use in stress-induced and aging-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas Efferth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmacy and BiochemistryJohannes Gutenberg UniversityMainzGermany
| | - Alexander N. Shikov
- Department of technology of dosage formsSaint‐Petersburg State Chemical‐Pharmaceutical UniversitySt. PetersburgRussia
| | - Olga N. Pozharitskaya
- Department of BiotechnologyMurmansk Marine Biological Institute of the Kola Science Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences (MMBI KSC RAS)MurmanskRussia
| | - Kenny Kuchta
- Department of Far Eastern Medicine, Clinic for Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal OncologyUniversity Medical Center GöttingenGöttingenGermany
| | - Pulok K. Mukherjee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Natural Product StudiesJadavpur UniversityKolkataIndia
| | - Subhadip Banerjee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Natural Product StudiesJadavpur UniversityKolkataIndia
| | - Michael Heinrich
- Research Cluster Biodiversity and Medicines, UCL School of Pharmacy, Centre for Pharmacognosy and PhytotherapyUniversity of LondonLondonUK
| | - Wanying Wu
- Shanghai Research Center for TCM Modernization, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - De‐an Guo
- Shanghai Research Center for TCM Modernization, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Hildebert Wagner
- Department of Pharmacy, Center for Pharma ResearchLudwig‐Maximilians‐Universität MünchenMunichGermany
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Salvadori L, Mandrone M, Manenti T, Ercolani C, Cornioli L, Lianza M, Tomasi P, Chiappalupi S, Di Filippo ES, Fulle S, Poli F, Sorci G, Riuzzi F. Identification of Withania somnifera-Silybum marianum-Trigonella foenum-graecum Formulation as a Nutritional Supplement to Contrast Muscle Atrophy and Sarcopenia. Nutrients 2020; 13:E49. [PMID: 33375229 PMCID: PMC7824275 DOI: 10.3390/nu13010049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Muscle atrophy, i.e., the loss of skeletal muscle mass and function, is an unresolved problem associated with aging (sarcopenia) and several pathological conditions. The imbalance between myofibrillary protein breakdown (especially the adult isoforms of myosin heavy chain, MyHC) and synthesis, and the reduction of muscle regenerative potential are main causes of muscle atrophy. Methods: Starting from one-hundred dried hydroalcoholic extracts of medical plants, we identified those able to contrast the reduction of C2C12 myotube diameter in well-characterized in vitro models mimicking muscle atrophy associated to inflammatory states, glucocorticoid treatment or nutrient deprivation. Based on their ability to rescue type II MyHC (MyHC-II) expression in atrophying conditions, six extracts with different phytochemical profiles were selected, mixed in groups of three, and tested on atrophic myotubes. The molecular mechanism underpinning the effects of the most efficacious formulation, and its efficacy on myotubes obtained from muscle biopsies of young and sarcopenic subjects were also investigated. Results: We identified WST (Withania somnifera, Silybum marianum, Trigonella foenum-graecum) formulation as extremely efficacious in protecting C2C12 myotubes against MyHC-II degradation by stimulating Akt (protein kinase B)-dependent protein synthesis and p38 MAPK (p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase)/myogenin-dependent myoblast differentiation. WST sustains trophism in C2C12 and young myotubes, and rescues the size, developmental MyHC expression and myoblast fusion in sarcopenic myotubes. Conclusion: WST strongly counteracts muscle atrophy associated to different conditions in vitro. The future validation in vivo of our results might lead to the use of WST as a food supplement to sustain muscle mass in diffuse atrophying conditions, and to reverse the age-related functional decline of human muscles, thus improving people quality of life and reducing social and health-care costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Salvadori
- Department Translational Medicine, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy;
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), 06132 Perugia, Italy; (S.C.); (E.S.D.F.); (S.F.); (G.S.)
| | - Manuela Mandrone
- Department Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (M.M.); (M.L.); (P.T.); (F.P.)
| | - Tommaso Manenti
- Biokyma srl Laboratories, 52031 Anghiari, Italy; (T.M.); (C.E.); (L.C.)
| | - Catia Ercolani
- Biokyma srl Laboratories, 52031 Anghiari, Italy; (T.M.); (C.E.); (L.C.)
| | - Luca Cornioli
- Biokyma srl Laboratories, 52031 Anghiari, Italy; (T.M.); (C.E.); (L.C.)
| | - Mariacaterina Lianza
- Department Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (M.M.); (M.L.); (P.T.); (F.P.)
| | - Paola Tomasi
- Department Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (M.M.); (M.L.); (P.T.); (F.P.)
| | - Sara Chiappalupi
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), 06132 Perugia, Italy; (S.C.); (E.S.D.F.); (S.F.); (G.S.)
- Department Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Ester Sara Di Filippo
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), 06132 Perugia, Italy; (S.C.); (E.S.D.F.); (S.F.); (G.S.)
- Department Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University G. D’Annunzio Chieti e Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Stefania Fulle
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), 06132 Perugia, Italy; (S.C.); (E.S.D.F.); (S.F.); (G.S.)
- Department Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University G. D’Annunzio Chieti e Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Ferruccio Poli
- Department Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (M.M.); (M.L.); (P.T.); (F.P.)
| | - Guglielmo Sorci
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), 06132 Perugia, Italy; (S.C.); (E.S.D.F.); (S.F.); (G.S.)
- Department Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Francesca Riuzzi
- Interuniversity Institute of Myology (IIM), 06132 Perugia, Italy; (S.C.); (E.S.D.F.); (S.F.); (G.S.)
- Department Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
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Verma N, Gupta SK, Tiwari S, Mishra AK. Safety of Ashwagandha Root Extract: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, study in Healthy Volunteers. Complement Ther Med 2020; 57:102642. [PMID: 33338583 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2020.102642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a well-established and reputed herb in Ayurvedic medicine. It has been used as a "Rasayana" (rejuvenator), nootropic, and as a powerful natural adaptogen. The herb extract is extensively used for general wellbeing and in specific ailments. However, only a few studies have investigated the safety and tolerability of Ashwagandha in humans. This study evaluated the safety of Ashwagandha root extract consumption in healthy adults. METHODS In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, and parallel-group study, 80 healthy participants (40 males, 40 females) were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive either Ashwagandha 300 mg or a placebo of the same dosage, twice daily, orally for 8 weeks. The study was conducted at MV Hospital, and King George Medical University, Lucknow, India. The primary safety outcomes considered were laboratory assessment of hematological parameters, serum biochemistry analysis including hepatotoxicity evaluation, and thyroid function parameters. The secondary outcomes of this study were the clinical adverse events and the vital parameters. The within and between the groups' datasets were compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and the Mann Whitney U test, respectively. RESULTS A detailed evaluation of the vital signs such as body weight, body temperature, pulse rate, respiratory rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and Body Mass Index (BMI) were conducted for each participant at the baseline and the end of the study for treatment and placebo groups. Similarly, hematological and biochemical parameters were evaluated at the baseline and at the end of study. The outcome did not indicate any untoward effects in any of the treated volunteers. No statistically significant change or abnormality was observed in the considered parameters including thyroid hormonal profile in both the groups. No adverse events were reported by any of the participants in this study. CONCLUSIONS Ashwagandha is being consumed since time immemorial following the Ayurvedic medicine practices. Modern science requires evidence of the safety and efficacy of the Ashwagandha extract before mass consumption for various health issues and as a supplement. The present study revealed that the consumption of Ashwagandha root extract for 8 weeks was safe in both males and females volunteers. However, long term study and varying dosage ranges should be investigated in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narsing Verma
- King George's Medical University, Chowk, Lucknow, 226003, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sandeep Kumar Gupta
- M V Hospital and Research Centre, 314/30 Mirza Mandi, Post Office, Chowk, Lucknow, 226003, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shashank Tiwari
- M V Hospital and Research Centre, 314/30 Mirza Mandi, Post Office, Chowk, Lucknow, 226003, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Ashok Kumar Mishra
- M V Hospital and Research Centre, 314/30 Mirza Mandi, Post Office, Chowk, Lucknow, 226003, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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EL Moussaoui A, Bourhia M, Jawhari FZ, Mechchate H, Slighoua M, Bari A, Ullah R, Mahmood HM, Ali SS, Ibenmoussa S, Bousta D, Bari A. Phytochemical Identification, Acute, and Sub-Acute Oral Toxicity Studies of the Foliar Extract of Withania frutescens. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25194528. [PMID: 33023252 PMCID: PMC7583005 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25194528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 09/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Withania frutescens (W. frutescens) is a medicinal plant widely used to treat several diseases. This work aims to study phytochemical composition as well as acute and subacute toxicity of W. frutescens hydroethanolic extract in mice. The phytochemical composition of W. frutescens extract was performed using gas chromatographic analysis. Acute toxicity was studied in vivo with oral administration of single doses 400 mg/kg, 1000 mg/kg, and 2000 mg/kg for 14 days. Subacute toxicity was studied with the administration of repeated doses of 400 mg/kg/day and 2000 mg/kg/day for 28 days. Phytochemical analysis of W. frutescens hydro-ethanolic extract confirmed the presence of interesting chemical compounds. Acute toxicity results showed no toxic symptoms in mice treated with an increasing dose up to a maximum of 2000 mg/kg. Alongside acute toxicity, subacute data showed no clinical symptoms nor biochemical or histological alteration in mice treated with an increasing dose up to a maximum of 2000 mg/kg compared to the control group (p < 0.05). This study shows no toxic effects in animals treated with W. frutescens extract, and, therefore, this plant can be considered safe in animals up to 2000 mg/kg under both acute and subacute toxicity conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelfattah EL Moussaoui
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Environment, Agrifood and Health, Faculty of Science, University of Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, Fez BP.1796, Morocco; (A.E.M.); (F.Z.J.); (H.M.); (M.S.); (D.B.); (A.B.)
| | - Mohammed Bourhia
- Laboratory of Chemistry-Biochemistry, Environment, Nutrition, and Health, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Casablanca, Casablanca BP.5696, Morocco;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +212-610799873
| | - Fatima Zahra Jawhari
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Environment, Agrifood and Health, Faculty of Science, University of Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, Fez BP.1796, Morocco; (A.E.M.); (F.Z.J.); (H.M.); (M.S.); (D.B.); (A.B.)
| | - Hamza Mechchate
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Environment, Agrifood and Health, Faculty of Science, University of Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, Fez BP.1796, Morocco; (A.E.M.); (F.Z.J.); (H.M.); (M.S.); (D.B.); (A.B.)
| | - Meryem Slighoua
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Environment, Agrifood and Health, Faculty of Science, University of Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, Fez BP.1796, Morocco; (A.E.M.); (F.Z.J.); (H.M.); (M.S.); (D.B.); (A.B.)
| | - Ahmed Bari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Central Laboratory, College of Pharmacy King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (A.B.); (S.S.A.)
| | - Riaz Ullah
- Department of Pharmacognosy (MAPPRC), College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Hafiz Majid Mahmood
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Syed Saeed Ali
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Central Laboratory, College of Pharmacy King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (A.B.); (S.S.A.)
| | - Samir Ibenmoussa
- Laboratory of Chemistry-Biochemistry, Environment, Nutrition, and Health, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Casablanca, Casablanca BP.5696, Morocco;
| | - Dalila Bousta
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Environment, Agrifood and Health, Faculty of Science, University of Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, Fez BP.1796, Morocco; (A.E.M.); (F.Z.J.); (H.M.); (M.S.); (D.B.); (A.B.)
| | - Amina Bari
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Environment, Agrifood and Health, Faculty of Science, University of Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, Fez BP.1796, Morocco; (A.E.M.); (F.Z.J.); (H.M.); (M.S.); (D.B.); (A.B.)
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A randomized, double blind, placebo controlled study to evaluate the effects of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract on sleep quality in healthy adults. Sleep Med 2020; 72:28-36. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2020.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Sowinski RJ, Grubic TJ, Dalton RL, Schlaffer J, Reyes-Elrod AG, Jenkins VM, Williamson S, Rasmussen C, Murano PS, Earnest CP, Kreider RB. An Examination of a Novel Weight Loss Supplement on Anthropometry and Indices of Cardiovascular Disease Risk. J Diet Suppl 2020; 18:478-506. [PMID: 32691639 DOI: 10.1080/19390211.2020.1786207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study examined whether adding Dichrostachys glomerata (DG; 300 mg/d) to thermogenic supplements with (DG + C) and without (DG) caffeine and other nutrients affects weight loss, changes in body composition, and/or markers of health. METHODS Sixty-eight participants (female, 54%) were grouped in a double-blind, parallel, stratified random, placebo-controlled manner to supplement their diet with a placebo, DG, or DG + C for 12 weeks while maintaining their normal diet and physical activity. Diet, physical activity, body weight, body composition, anthropometric measures, resting energy expenditure, fasting blood samples, and questionnaires were obtained at 0, 4, 8, and 12 weeks and analyzed using general linear models with repeated measures. Data are reported as mean (±SD) and change from baseline (mean, 95% confidence interval) for weeks 4, 8, and 12, respectively, with p values showing changes from baseline. RESULTS DG treatment promoted significant but minor reductions in fat mass (-0.56 [-1.02, -0.14], p = 0.01; -0.63 [-1.23, -0.02], p = 0.04; -0.71 [-1.47, 0.09] kg, p = 0.08) and percent body fat (-0.46 [-0.96, -0.04], p = 0.07; -0.63 [-1.16, -0.10], p = 0.02; -0.78 [-1.45, 0.07] %, p = 0.03). There was some evidence that DG + C increased resting energy expenditure, decreased hunger, increased satiety, and improved sleep quality (diminished in DG + C). No other significant effects were observed. CONCLUSIONS Ingestion of thermogenic supplements containing DG (300 mg/d) with and without caffeine and other nutrients in overweight but otherwise healthy participants who did not alter diet or physical activity promoted clinically insignificant changes in body weight and composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan J Sowinski
- Exercise & Sport Nutrition Lab, Human Clinical Research Facility, Department of Health & Kinesiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.,Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Tyler J Grubic
- Exercise & Sport Nutrition Lab, Human Clinical Research Facility, Department of Health & Kinesiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Ryan L Dalton
- Exercise & Sport Nutrition Lab, Human Clinical Research Facility, Department of Health & Kinesiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Jessica Schlaffer
- Exercise & Sport Nutrition Lab, Human Clinical Research Facility, Department of Health & Kinesiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Aimee G Reyes-Elrod
- Exercise & Sport Nutrition Lab, Human Clinical Research Facility, Department of Health & Kinesiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.,Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Victoria M Jenkins
- Exercise & Sport Nutrition Lab, Human Clinical Research Facility, Department of Health & Kinesiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Susannah Williamson
- Exercise & Sport Nutrition Lab, Human Clinical Research Facility, Department of Health & Kinesiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Christopher Rasmussen
- Exercise & Sport Nutrition Lab, Human Clinical Research Facility, Department of Health & Kinesiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Peter S Murano
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Conrad P Earnest
- Exercise & Sport Nutrition Lab, Human Clinical Research Facility, Department of Health & Kinesiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Richard B Kreider
- Exercise & Sport Nutrition Lab, Human Clinical Research Facility, Department of Health & Kinesiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
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Tandon N, Yadav SS. Safety and clinical effectiveness of Withania Somnifera (Linn.) Dunal root in human ailments. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 255:112768. [PMID: 32201301 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.112768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 01/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Withania somnifera popularly known as Aswagandha or Indian Ginseng/Poison Gooseberry have thousands years of history of use in Indian traditional medicine. Besides, finding place root of the plant as Indian Ginseng, Ayurveda also uses root of this plant as general health tonic, adaptogenic, nootropic, immunomodulatory etc. With its widespread and growing use, it becomes prudent to scientifically evaluate and document both the efficacy and safety of this plant in humans. AIM OF THE STUDY Aswagnadha root is rapidly gaining popularity abroad for use as medicine. Current article attempts to primarily review the human efficacy and safety of Aswagandha generated through clinical trials. METHODS A systematic search both for indexed and non-indexed literature was made for W. somnifera using various search engines and databases and the details of research articles pertaining to all clinical trials/human studies, animal studies addressing safety issues of CNS, CVS, general toxicity, mutagenicity, genotoxicity, reproductive safety and herb-drug interactions were reviewed and compiled comprehensively from full texts. RESULTS A total of 69 (39 pre-clinical and 30 clinical) studies documenting efficacy and safety aspects were identified and the desired information of these studies is comprehensively presented in this review. Retrieved thirty(30) human studies demonstrated reasonable efficacy of root preparations in subclinical hypothyroidism (1), schizophrenia (3), chronic stress (2), insomnia (2), anxiety (1), memory and cognitive improvement (2), obsessive-compulsive disorder (1), rheumatoid arthritis (2), type-2 diabetes (2), male infertility (6), fertility promotion activity in females (1), adaptogenic (3), growth promoter in children (3) and chemotherapy adjuvant (1). Reasonable safety of root preparations of Aswagandha has been established by these retrieved 30 human trials. No serious adverse events or any changes in haematological, biochemical or vital parameters were reported in these human studies. Only mild and mainly transient type adverse events of somnolence, epigastric pain/discomfort and loose stools were reported as most common (>5%); and giddiness, drowsiness, hallucinogenic, vertigo, nasal congestion (rhinitis), cough, cold, decreased appetite, nausea, constipation, dry mouth, hyperactivity, nocturnal cramps, blurring of vision, hyperacidity, skin rash and weight gain were reported as less common adverse events. Pre-clinical chronic toxicity studies conducted up to 8 months also found root extracts to be safe. No mutagenicity or genotoxicity was reported for the root; only mild CNS depression and increase in thyroxine (T4) levels were reported with rootby some studies. Further, there was no in vitro and in vivo inhibition seen for CYP3A4 and CYP2D6, the two major hepatic drug metabolizing enzymes. CONCLUSION Root of the Ayurvedic drug W. somnifera (Aswagandha) appears a promising safe and effective traditional medicine for management of schizophrenia, chronic stress, insomnia, anxiety, memory/cognitive enhancement, obsessive-compulsive disorder, rheumatoid arthritis, type-2 diabetes and male infertility, and bears fertility promotion activity in females adaptogenic, growth promoter activity in children and as adjuvant for reduction of fatigue and improvement in quality of life among cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Properly designed, randomized-controlled, large-size, prospective trials with standardized preparations are needed to ascertain efficacy of Aswagandha root in previously studied and other new indications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neeraj Tandon
- Indian Council of Medical Research, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, India.
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Pérez-Gómez J, Villafaina S, Adsuar JC, Merellano-Navarro E, Collado-Mateo D. Effects of Ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera) on VO 2max: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients 2020; 12:E1119. [PMID: 32316411 PMCID: PMC7230697 DOI: 10.3390/nu12041119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to systematically review the scientific literature about the effects of supplementation with Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) on maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max), as well as to provide directions for clinical practice. A systematic search was conducted in three electronic databases following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Guidelines (PRISMA). The inclusion criteria were: (a) VO2max data, with means ± standard deviation before and after the supplement intervention, (b) the study was randomized controlled trial (RCT), (c) the article was written in English. The quality of evidence was evaluated according to the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. A meta-analysis was performed to determine effect sizes. Five studies were selected in the systematic review (162 participants) and four were included in the meta-analysis (142 participants). Results showed a significant enhancement in VO2max in healthy adults and athletes (p = 0.04). The mean difference was 3.00 (95% CI from 0.18 to 5.82) with high heterogeneity. In conclusion, Ashwagandha supplementation might improve the VO2max in athlete and non-athlete people. However, further research is need to confirm this hypothesis since the number of studies is limited and the heterogeneity was high.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Pérez-Gómez
- HEME Research Group, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Extremadura, 10003 Caceres, Spain; (J.P.-G.)
| | - Santos Villafaina
- Physical Activity and Quality of Life Research Group (AFYCAV), Faculty of Sport Science, University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain
| | - José Carmelo Adsuar
- HEME Research Group, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Extremadura, 10003 Caceres, Spain; (J.P.-G.)
| | | | - Daniel Collado-Mateo
- Centre for Sport Studies, Rey Juan Carlos University, Fuenlabrada, 28943 Madrid, Spain;
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Lee DH, Ahn J, Jang YJ, Seo HD, Ha TY, Kim MJ, Huh YH, Jung CH. Withania somnifera Extract Enhances Energy Expenditure via Improving Mitochondrial Function in Adipose Tissue and Skeletal Muscle. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12020431. [PMID: 32046183 PMCID: PMC7071232 DOI: 10.3390/nu12020431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Withania somnifera (WS), commonly known as ashwagandha, possesses diverse biological functions. WS root has mainly been used as an herbal medicine to treat anxiety and was recently reported to have an anti-obesity effect, however, the mechanisms underlying its action remain to be explored. We hypothesized that WS exerts its anti-obesity effect by enhancing energy expenditure through improving the mitochondrial function of brown/beige adipocytes and skeletal muscle. Male C57BL/6J mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) containing 0.25% or 0.5% WS 70% ethanol extract (WSE) for 10 weeks. WSE (0.5%) supplementation significantly suppressed the increases in body weight and serum lipids, and lipid accumulation in the liver and adipose tissue induced by HFD. WSE supplementation increased oxygen consumption and enhanced mitochondrial activity in brown fat and skeletal muscle in the HFD-fed mice. In addition, it promoted browning of subcutaneous fat by increasing mitochondrial uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) expression. Withaferin A (WFA), a major compound of WS, enhanced the differentiation of pre-adipocytes into beige adipocytes and oxygen consumption in C2C12 murine myoblasts. These results suggest that WSE ameliorates diet-induced obesity by enhancing energy expenditure via promoting mitochondrial function in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle, and WFA is a key regulator in this function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da-Hye Lee
- Division of Food Functionality Research, Korea Food Research Institute, Wanju-gun, Jeonbuk 55365, Korea; (D.-H.L.); (J.A.); (Y.-J.J.); (H.-D.S.); (T.-Y.H.); (M.J.K.)
- Department of Food Biotechnology, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34113, Korea
| | - Jiyun Ahn
- Division of Food Functionality Research, Korea Food Research Institute, Wanju-gun, Jeonbuk 55365, Korea; (D.-H.L.); (J.A.); (Y.-J.J.); (H.-D.S.); (T.-Y.H.); (M.J.K.)
- Department of Food Biotechnology, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34113, Korea
| | - Young-Jin Jang
- Division of Food Functionality Research, Korea Food Research Institute, Wanju-gun, Jeonbuk 55365, Korea; (D.-H.L.); (J.A.); (Y.-J.J.); (H.-D.S.); (T.-Y.H.); (M.J.K.)
| | - Hyo-Deok Seo
- Division of Food Functionality Research, Korea Food Research Institute, Wanju-gun, Jeonbuk 55365, Korea; (D.-H.L.); (J.A.); (Y.-J.J.); (H.-D.S.); (T.-Y.H.); (M.J.K.)
| | - Tae-Youl Ha
- Division of Food Functionality Research, Korea Food Research Institute, Wanju-gun, Jeonbuk 55365, Korea; (D.-H.L.); (J.A.); (Y.-J.J.); (H.-D.S.); (T.-Y.H.); (M.J.K.)
- Department of Food Biotechnology, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34113, Korea
| | - Min Jung Kim
- Division of Food Functionality Research, Korea Food Research Institute, Wanju-gun, Jeonbuk 55365, Korea; (D.-H.L.); (J.A.); (Y.-J.J.); (H.-D.S.); (T.-Y.H.); (M.J.K.)
| | - Yang Hoon Huh
- Center for Electron Microscopy Research, Korea Basic Science Institute, Cheongju 28119, Korea;
| | - Chang Hwa Jung
- Division of Food Functionality Research, Korea Food Research Institute, Wanju-gun, Jeonbuk 55365, Korea; (D.-H.L.); (J.A.); (Y.-J.J.); (H.-D.S.); (T.-Y.H.); (M.J.K.)
- Department of Food Biotechnology, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34113, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-63-219-9301; Fax: +82-63-219-9225
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Durg S, Bavage S, Shivaram SB. Withania somnifera
(Indian ginseng) in diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of scientific evidence from experimental research to clinical application. Phytother Res 2020; 34:1041-1059. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2019] [Revised: 11/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Tripathi RK, Dethe PD, Bhojne SK, Raut AA, Rege NN. A prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind comparative pilot study to evaluate the efficacy of Chlorophytum borivilianum on physical performance. Indian J Pharmacol 2020; 51:150-156. [PMID: 31391682 PMCID: PMC6644180 DOI: 10.4103/ijp.ijp_115_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: The objective was to study the adaptogenic effect of Chlorophytum borivilianum (CB) on physical performance when exposed to accustomed activity (AA) and unaccustomed activity (UA) and the effect of CB on heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP) in the presence of UA and the effect on muscle strength in comparison with placebo. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical study was initiated after ethics committee approval in healthy volunteers with fixed-dose regimen. Consented volunteers (n = 60) were assigned randomly into two groups of study drug (3 g/day) or placebo (3 g/day) for 2 months. They were evaluated at days 0, 30, and 60 with physical stressors (6-min walk test [6MWT] – distance, HR, and BP; 6-min exercise test [6ETC] – distance, maximum and average speed; and fixed workload test [FWT] – systolic BP, diastolic BP [DBP], and HR on cycle ergometer) and Jammar's dynamometer test for handgrip strength test on each visit. RESULTS: In 6MWT in CB group, distance on day 30 (456 ± 42.1) and day 60 (468.3 ± 0.4) was significantly increased when compared with day 30 (422.6 ± 45.7) and day 60 (419.6 ± 45.1) of the placebo group. On day 60, distance in 6ETC in CB group was 2.92 ± 0.6 which was significantly more than that of placebo group 2.4 ± 0.6. On day 60, in FWT, DBP in the CB group was 75.8 ± 4.4 which was significantly low compared to the placebo group 82.4 ± 7.4 (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: CB increased physical performance when exposed to AA even after one month and in case of UA increase in performance was seen when CB was administered for two months thus validating its adaptogenic (anti-stress) potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raakhi K Tripathi
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Seth G S Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Pradnya D Dethe
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Seth G S Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sunil K Bhojne
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Seth G S Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Ashwinikumar A Raut
- Department of Clinical Research and Integrative Medicine, Kasturba Health Society, Medical Research Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Nirmala N Rege
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Seth G S Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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