Ashwagandha’s Biological and Pharmacological Effects: An Overview of Experimental Animal Research

Abstract

Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) is an important plant that has been used for many years in Ayurveda, traditional Indian medicine. Ashwagandha; Thanks to its adaptogen properties, it helps to balance the body by increasing its ability to cope with stress. Scientific research in recent years has supported the positive effects of Ashwagandha on health and examined its pharmacological properties on various biological systems. Ashwagandha's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anti-stress and anxiety-reducing effects have been studied in experimental animal studies. The ability of the plant to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation markers by neutralising free radicals are prominent findings. In addition, protective effects against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's and the potential to reduce stress-related cortisol levels have been observed. The positive effects of Ashwagandha on metabolic and cardiovascular health indicate improvement in blood glucose and cardiac parameters. In this review, the pharmacological effects of Ashwagandha on experimental animals are discussed in detail, summarising the findings confirming the various effects of Ashwagandha on health and presenting promising results for clinical applications. The use of Ashwagandha in experimental animal models shows that it provides positive effects on stress and anxiety with its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. However, more clinical studies are needed to confirm these effects in humans.