Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of the physiologically active substances in commercially available Withania somnifera supplements

Abstract

Withania somnifera supplements are used widely due to its extraordinary significance within the ayurvedic system. W. somnifera dietary supplements are normally used as a tonic for the nerves, reminiscence enhancer, antirheumatic item, aphrodisiac, and adaptogen. Various pharmacological studies concerning the multiple bio-physiological properties of W. somnifera suggest that it is additionally valuable for the treatment of ailments such as asthma, bronchitis, ulcer, cancer, a sleeping disorder, and dementia. As these supplements claim to be pure and safe, they are also highly prone to adulteration. Ten samples of commercially available Withania somnifera supplements were collected, all belonging to different brands. These samples were analysed to determine the quantity of physiologically active substances such as withanolides, saponins and alkaloids. In UV, the absorbance of the sample was noted within the range of 190–600 nm. The content of withanolides, saponins and alkaloids showed variations when compared with the standard withanolides, saponins and alkaloids content. The main purpose of this work was to detect the variation in the content of physiologically active substances and to check possible counterfeiting of Withania somnifera supplement samples.