Withania somnifera (WS), a medicinal plant used in traditional medicine for thousands of years, is attracting increasing attention in modern research. This review aims to collect and analyze the current scientific evidence regarding WS's pharmacological properties, therapeutic applications, and mechanisms of action. The methods used in this review included a comprehensive literature search of the PubMed and Scopus databases, with inclusion criteria that included relevant clinical and preclinical studies. Research shows that the bioactive compounds in WS, such as withanolides, alkaloids, and flavonoids, have significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, contributing to cellular protection and reducing inflammation. In the context of mental health, WS is effective in reducing anxiety and stress. Additionally, WS exhibits positive effects on the reproductive system, including increased fertility and sexual function, which may be attributed to the modulation of hormones such as testosterone and estrogen. Regarding neuroprotection, WS has been shown to improve cognition by reducing oxidative stress and increasing neurogenesis. Cardiovascular protective effects, demonstrating WS's ability to reduce damage from oxidative stress. This review shows that the bioactive compounds in WS have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities that contribute to cellular protection and reduction of inflammation.
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