Vol. 12, Issue 7 (2023)

Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal is known to be verging on all parts of the world since antiquity for its medicinal attributes contributed by the active constituents present in its roots and leaves. The foremost biochemical compositions of Ashwagandha are withanolide A, withaferin A, withanoside IV and V, 12-deoxy withanostamalide, protein, fibre, carbohydrate, iron, carotene, calcium and many more which are present in substantial amount and imparts medicinal value to it. Ashwagandha is low in natural regeneration and is high in demand by pharmaceutical industries and there is a requirement to bring this crop in cultivation in large area. Further the progress in novel breeding methods and molecular techniques is needed. This particular review deals with the past, present and future aspects of Withania somnifera.