RP-HPLC analysis of withanolides in the flowers, leaves, and roots of Withania somnifera

Ashwaghanda, Withania somnifera , is one of the most widely used herbs in Ayurvedic medicine. Leaves and roots are the traditionally used parts of the plant. An RP-HPLC method using a binary acetonitrile-water gradient containing 0.1% acetic acid has been developed for analysis of withaferin A. The method was validated in accordance with ICH guidelines and used for analysis of the withanolide content of the flowers, leaves, and roots of W. somnifera . The withanolide content was highest in the flowers.