Formulation and standardization of Medhya Rasayana – A novel Ayurvedic compound nootropic drug

Abstract

IntroductionMedhya Rasayana is a poly herbal formulation widely used in Ayurvedic clinical practice with multi fold benefits, specifically to improve memory and intellect by their Prabhava (specific action) namely Medhya (Nootropic). There is no work on record on formulation and standardization aspect of a compound formulation containing nootropic herbs. This study highlights physico-chemical characterization, TLC and HPTLC densitogram profiling of Medhya Rasayana which can be applied for authentication of this poly herbal formulation. MethodsFour Medhya Rasayana herbs namely, Mandukaparni (Centella asiatica Linn.), Yastimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn.), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia (Wild) Miers.) and Shankhapushpi (Evolvulus alsinoids L.) were authenticated botanically. Tablets were prepared by combining all these four drugs and subjected for detailed physico-chemical and HPTLC analyses. ResultsSet of standardization parameters were derived for the compounded tablet containing four Medhya Rasayana herbs by physico-chemical characterisation. The tests proposed would serve as diagnostic parameters for the identity of this poly herbal formulation. HPTLC fingerprint profile which can serve as a fingerprint for the identification of the formulation has been obtained. ConclusionThe proposed method of making tablet from four Medhya Rasayana herbs will aid in yielding concentrated medicament with the same efficacy as per the classically proposed drug dosage at lower dose. Standards for the poly herbal formulation has been developed for the quality check of the formulation.