Effects of Ashwagandha (roots of Withania somnifera) on neurodegenerative diseases.

Abstract

Neurodegenerative diseases commonly induce irreversible destruction of central nervous system (CNS) neuronal networks, resulting in permanent functional impairments. Effective medications against neurodegenerative diseases are currently lacking. Ashwagandha (roots of Withania somnifera Dunal) is used in traditional Indian medicine (Ayurveda) for general debility, consumption, nervous exhaustion, insomnia, and loss of memory. In this review, we summarize various effects and mechanisms of Ashwagandha extracts and related compounds on in vitro and in vivo models of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and spinal cord injury.

• Authors: Tomoharu Kuboyama, Chihiro Tohda, Katsuko Komatsu
• Journal: Biological & pharmaceutical bulletin (Biol Pharm Bull) Vol. 37 Issue 6 Pg. 892-7 ( 2014) ISSN: 1347-5215 [Electronic] Japan
• PMID: 24882401 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review)

Chemical References

• Neuroprotective Agents
• Plant Extracts
• Ashwagandha

Topics

• Alzheimer Disease (drug therapy, pathology)
• Humans
• Medicine, Ayurvedic
• Molecular Structure
• Neurodegenerative Diseases (drug therapy, pathology)
• Neuroprotective Agents (adverse effects, chemistry, isolation & purification, therapeutic use)
• Plant Extracts (adverse effects, chemistry, isolation & purification, therapeutic use)
• Plant Roots (chemistry)
• Spinal Cord Injuries (drug therapy, pathology)
• Withania (chemistry)