Micromatrix and physico-chemical quality parameters of Shwasakuthara Rasa prepared by two different methods

Abstract

Background: Shwasakuthara Rasa (SKR) is a known herbo-mineral formulation indicated in Shwasa (Bronchial Asthma). Aims and Objectives: To study the Microscopic and Physicochemical profiles of SKR prepared by two different methods. Materials and Methods: SKR was prepared by adding Maricha (Piper nigrum L) one by one [SKR(A)] and adding Maricha choorna as a whole [SKR(B)] in the mixture of Kajjali of Parada, Gandaka, Vatsanabha, Manahshila and Tankana. Their comparative Pharmacognostical and Physico-chemical studies were carried out. Observations and Results: SKR(A) sample took around 12 hours where as SKR(B) took an average of 5 hours of Mardana (Trituration) to become a homogenous mixture with desired smoothness respectively. Microscopic studies on SKR(A) showed that individual ingredients of the formulation could not be identified and most of cellular components were damaged and released into the Kajjali where as in SKR(B) cellular components of the individual ingredients could be identified. The bottle neck shaped cells of Maricha, Parenchyma cells of Vatsanabha, and Scalariform vessels of Shunti were damaged. Particle size was also less in SKR(A). An increased quantity of Piperine when compared to SKR(B) was also observed. Conclusion: SKR prepared by classical method by adding Maricha one by one [SKR (A)] showed better results in microscopic, quantity of Piperine and particle size distribution parameters.