Abstract

PHARMACOGNOSTICAL AND PHYTOCHEMICAL EVALUATION OF ASHWAGANDHA (WITHANIA SOMNIFERA DUNAL) LEAF

Dr. Richa Viradiya*, Dr. Hiral Sutariya and Dr. Dharmendra Jani

ABSTRACT

Background: The present article reveals the Pharmacognosy andPreliminary Phytochemical studies of Ashwagandha (Withaniasomnifera Dunal) leaf. Material & Method: Pharmacognosticalstudies and Phytochemical studies were carried out to supplement thenecessary information for the systematic identification andauthentication of this plant. Observation & Result: Leaves are simple,alternate, broadly ovate, sub-acute and have entire margins. InMicroscopic studies, the presence of well-defined Upper and LowerEpidermis covered externally with Cuticle, both surface of leaf isenriched with Multicellular Dendroid Trichomes, Starch grains andRosette Crystals are found. In Powder Microscopy, MulticellularDendroid Trichome, Fibers, Calcium Oxalate Crystal, PrismaticCrystal, Cork Cell, Epidermis Cells and Vessels were found.Preliminary phytochemical screening showed the presence ofalkaloids, tannins, and steroids. Conclusion: The structures which are observed here, helps incorrect identification of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera Dunal) leaf.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Pharmacognosy, Phytochemicals, Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera Dunal).