Qualitative screening of phytochemicals present in Withania somnifera root extract with pharmacological importance

Abstract

Withania somnifera, also known as “Ashwagandha”, is a well-known perennial herb from India that belongs to the Solanaceae family. It is among the most valuable medicinal plants and has been widely utilised as therapeutic agents, such as anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, anti-stress, antibiotic, anticancer, anti-oxidant, sedative, alterative, and aphrodisiac. As the dried roots of Withania somnifera are widely used in the treatment of many disorders. Natural bioactive component flavonoids, alkaloids and phenolic compound are said to be present in the roots. The aim of the present study is to identify the presence of active phytochemical components like phenolic compounds, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and amino acids in Withania somnifera root extracts. In order to determine the phytochemical constituents in the plants, the samples of aqueous and ethanolic extract were used for the phytochemical assessment by using standard chemical tests. Pharmacological studies and preliminary phytochemical study were conducted. The findings indicate the presence of tannins, amino acids, flavonoids, alkaloidal, and saponin.  The current study will be useful for determining the quality and purity of a crude drug. According to our findings, Ashwagandha root powder is a great source of phytochemicals and nutraceuticals.