Pharmacognostical, physicochemical and microbiological standardisation of Tiryaq-e-arba (An Unani Polyherbal Formulation)

Abstract

Background: Tiryaq-e-Arba is a famous semi-solid compound preparation of Unani medicine and useful in various medical conditions. Before this study, Standardization of this formulation has not been carried out. Aims: The present study was undertaken to standardise the Tiryaq-e-Arba. Material & Methods: Standardisation performed from the organoleptic evaluation, physico-chemical studies, estimation for organic and inorganic constituents, heavy metal toxicity, microbiological evaluation. Results & Discussion: Tiryaq-e-Arba was evaluated for organoleptic evaluation and found in confirmity. Physico-chemical parameters were evaluated on three samples and mean was determined. Bulk density, specific gravity, pH of 1% and 10% solution, moisture content, alcohol and water-soluble content were determined. Percentage of total ash, acid insoluble ash, water soluble ash were determined. Estimation for organic constituents viz. alkaloid, reducing sugars, phenols, volatile oils were done. In inorganic constituents, calcium, iron, copper were evaluated and the values were recorded. Heavy metal estimation revealed lead content but within limit set by WHO, while mercury, arsenic, cadmium were absent. Total bacterial count and total fungal count also within limits and absence of specific pathogens. Results were within limits set by WHO. Conclusions: By this study, we have developed standards for various parameters which can be used for reference for future studies. It provides information and controls, necessary to produce material of reasonable consistency. This study is not only helpful for the researchers, analysts, scientists but also strengthen the Unani System of Medicine.