Evaluation of Withaferin A Content in <i>Withania somnifera</i> Using NMR and HPLC: A Comparative Assessment of Traditional and PCSL Extraction Methods

Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, 1852, commonly known as Indian ginseng or ashwagandha, is an evergreen shrub of the Solanaceae family. Traditionally used in Indian medicine for centuries, particularly through root extracts, it has recently gained global popularity as a supplement for promoting health and managing various conditions. Highly valued in Ayurvedic practice for its effects on vitality and well-being, it is considered a tonic-adaptogen, enhancing the body's ability to cope with psychophysical stress. This study aims to compare, in terms of weight and Withaferin A content, extracts obtained through conventional methods-such as maceration, digestion, and decoction-with those produced using Innovative Pressurised Cyclic Solid-Liquid Extraction, a technique increasingly adopted for its simplicity, speed, cost-effectiveness, and efficiency. The Withaferin A content was quantified by NMR, whose reliability was assessed through intra- and inter-day precision, as well as availability and stability tests. NMR proved to be a rapid and accurate method, confirming its suitability for determining active ingredient concentrations in natural extracts using an internal standard, with results consistent with HPLC analysis.