Effects of Ashwagandha (Roots of Withania somnifera) on neurodegenerative diseases

Tomoharu Kuboyama, Chihiro Tohda, Katsuko Komatsu*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

116 Scopus citations

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.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)892-897
Number of pages6
JournalBiological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin
Volume37
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - 2014/06

Keywords

  • Alzheimer's disease
  • Ashwagandha
  • Denosomin
  • Spinal cord injury
  • Withania somnifera
  • Withanolide

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pharmacology
  • Pharmaceutical Science

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