Isolation and identification of Withaferin A (Steroidal Lactone) from Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha).

Madhu, S.; Komala, M.; Pandian, P.

Background: This paper emphasizes a method for separation, identification, and quantification of selected withanolides in Withania somnifera plant extracts by HPLC estimation. Method: Withaferin-A which was isolated from Withania somnifera by repeated column chromatography of the Ashwagandha extract and their identity was established by 1H- and 13C-NMR was used as external standard. The compound was chromatographed on an isocratic system with a mobile phase made up of ACN: water 1:1 (v/v); flow of 0.6 mL/min; injection volume of 20 mL; λ = 225 nm; a LiChroCART 250×4 mm (5μm) column. The method was applied successfully to the detection and quantification of the said withanolide in the Ashwagandha extract. Result: On repeated chromatography over silica gel (100-200 Mesh Size), fraction no. 18-24 led to the isolation of compound one expected to be Withaferin A. Withaferin A was eluted out at 13.08 minute in HPLC run and further characterisation also confirms the compound. Conclusion: The method to separate, identifiy and characterize Withaferin-A from Withania somnifera was very much appropriate and reliable.

WITHANIA somnifera; NORMAL-phase chromatography; COLUMN chromatography; PLANT extracts

Drug Invention Today, 2019, Vol 11, Issue 3, p595

0975-7619

Academic Journal