Anti–Inflammatory Effects of Aqueous  Extract of Withania somnifera on LPS–Stimulated Pro–inflammatory Mediators  in J774 Murine Macrophages

Amara Srinivasulu

Volume : III, Issue : I, January - 2014

Anti–Inflammatory Effects of Aqueous Extract of Withania somnifera on LPS–Stimulated Pro–inflammatory Mediators in J774 Murine Macrophages

Amara Srinivasulu

Abstract :

Withania somnifera (Linn.) (Solanacea) is an Indian popular herb used in the treatment of many chronic diseases. Historically, the plant has been used as an anti-inflammatory, liver tonic, astringent and to cure ulcers, insomnia and more. Recently it is also being used in the treatment of immunological disorders such as onchitis, asthma, and many others. Clinical trials and animal research support the use of Ashwaganda in the management of IgE mediated allergies, inflammation, anxiety, cognitive and neurological disorders. Previously, we reported that the dried roots of this plant are found to associate with immunosuppressive activity. The present study includes anti-inflammatory effects of Withania somnifera aqueous fraction (WSAF) on the production of pro-inflammatory molecules from the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulated J774 murine macrophage cell lines. The findings indicated that WSAF exerted a dose dependent inhibition of LPS induced production of interleukin-1 (IL-1), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-?) and nitric oxide (NO). This data supports the potential use of WS as herbal medicine in the treatment of inflammatory diseases.