Ashwagandha: Optimizing the Extraction and Electrospun Nanofiber Production

Area of Science:

• Phytochemistry
• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Traditional herbal remedies like Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) possess bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential.
• Optimizing extraction and formulation is crucial for maximizing the efficacy and bioavailability of these natural actives.
• Developing advanced delivery systems can enhance the application scope of herbal extracts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To optimize the extraction of bioactive compounds from Ashwagandha root.
• To develop and characterize electrospun nanofibers for improved delivery of Ashwagandha bioactives.
• To evaluate the biological activity and application potential of the developed nanofiber system.

Main Methods:

• Design of Experiments (DoE) was used to identify optimal extraction parameters (80% methanol, 70 °C, 60 min).
• Electrospinning technology was employed using polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPβCD) as carriers for Ashwagandha extract.
• Physicochemical properties (surface-to-volume ratio, dissolution, mucoadhesion) and biological activities (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory) were assessed.

Main Results:

• Optimal extraction yielded high phenolic content and antioxidant activity, with methanol concentration being key.
• Electrospun nanofibers exhibited favorable characteristics for oral mucosal delivery, including high surface area and mucoadhesion.
• The electrospinning process preserved the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the Ashwagandha extract.

Conclusions:

• Integration of advanced extraction and nanotechnology offers a promising approach for developing herbal-based delivery systems.
• The developed Ashwagandha-loaded nanofibers are suitable for pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and functional food applications.
• This technology enables scalable and efficient utilization of Ashwagandha's bioactive compounds.