Ayurvedic Pharmaceutics Research Articles

Professor Damodar Joshi: A life that shaped the Ayurveda Pharmaceutics

Abstract The study presents a comprehensive life profile of Professor (Prof.) Damodar Joshi and his professional trajectory within the domain of Ayurvedic pharmaceutics. His pivotal role in integrating Rasa Shastra and Bhaishajya Kalpana with contemporary scientific paradigms, specifically focusing on the analysis and advancements related to mineral/metallic formulations derived from different metal and mineral sources, is highly regarded in modern Rasa Shastra. The present study unfolds Prof. Damodar Joshi’s scientific accomplishments, advances in literature, and resolution of scientific quandaries under his mentorship, as well as his professional journey, post-retirement contributions, research publications, and an array of awards and recognitions received.

Extraction and Analytical Study of Semecarpus Anacardium L. Seed Oil

Bhallataka, also known as the marking nut or dhobi nut, is a potent ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine. Despite its irritant nature, it's been used for centuries to treat a myriad of diseases. Its oil, extracted using the Patala Yantra, is a key formulation in Ayurvedic pharmaceutics. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, is gaining global recognition for its holistic and natural approach to health. A significant part of Ayurvedic treatments are plant-based, ranging from raw plant materials to refined extracts. One such plant is Semecarpus anacardium Linn, the botanical source of Bhallataka. The plant is being traditionally used by the ancient healers in clinical practice. Apart from the clinical uses the plant was also used for marking clothes, as hair dyes and in many non-therapeutic uses as well. Bhallataka is a plant which holds much significance in Siddha and Unani system of medicine. Various studies have been conducted to understand its physical and chemical nature of the plant, in order to understand its use in therapeutic purposes. Chemical and phytochemical analysis of Bhallataka nut reveals a treasure trove of bioactive compounds- biflavonoids, phenolic compounds, bhilawanols, minerals, vitamins, and amino acids. These compounds make Bhallataka effective against various diseases like arthritis, tumors, and infections. The oil of Bhallataka, extracted using the Patala Yantra method, is particularly noteworthy. This oil is an integral part of Ayurvedic pharmaceutics, and its application is referenced in various ancient texts.

PHARMACEUTICO - ANALYTICAL STUDY OF GANDHAKA KALPA

Herbo-mineral formulations occupy a significant seat in Ayurvedic pharmaceutics. Nearly 70% of formulations include a combination of one or more metallic/minerals with several herbs which have a supporting role in treat-ing the disease. Gandhaka is a primary substance and a fundamental part of the Ayurvedic laboratory. Gandha-ka, being the first among the Uparasa Varga, plays a vital role in the preparation of Chaturvidha Rasa-Rasayanas; Sagandha Yogas are considered the most productive among all the herbo-mineral preparations and hence can be used for longer duration without any complications. Gandhaka Kalpa1 is a herbo mineral formula-tion explained in Rasayoga Sagara, which includes the bhavana (trituration) of shuddha Gandhaka with Amalaki Swarasa for seven days. The study aims to prepare Gandhaka Kalpa as per the standard manufacturing proce-dure mentioned in classical texts and to analyse the sample for purity and quality by utilising suitable Analytical parameters. Results -The analysis of Gandhaka Kalpa shows an increase in weight after seven days of Bhavana; the Presence of a low amount of moisture content of Gandhaka Kalpa (2.88%) leads to decreased decomposition and enhanced shelf life and therapeutic value. Low Acid insoluble Ash determines the presence of soft adherent dirt and sand particles. Heavy metal tests and microbial analysis showed results within limits, which refers to the samples' safety profile and the drug's stability. Retention factor values in HPTLC confirmed the multi-polarity index of the compounds and a wide range of active principles.

Vaidyaka Paribhasha Pradipa: A Treatise on Technical Terminologies of Bhaishajya Kalpana (Ayurvedic Pharmaceutics)

Vaidyaka Paribhasha Pradipa: A Treatise on Technical Terminologies of Bhaishajya Kalpana (Ayurvedic Pharmaceutics)

Garudapacha: A Rare Mineral Used in Ayurveda Formulations

The art of converting and compounding the raw materials to formulate a medicine is dealt in detail in specialized branch of Ayurveda called Rasashastra and Bhaishajya Kalpana Ayurvedic Pharmaceutics. The sub branch of this which exclusively uses mineral raw drugs termed as Rasashastra. There are number of metals and minerals described in the books of Rasashastra. For convenience they have been categorized in to different sub groups namely Maharasa uparasa etc. Garudapacha is a rare mineral drug used in Ayurveda pharmaceutics. The references and use of this mineral is limited to a few Malayalam books of Ayurveda and Tamil books of siddha system of medicine. The detail account of Shodhana Purification and Marana Incineration of Garudapacha is also available in these books. The bhasma obtained from Garudapacha is used in leucorrhea. There are few compound formulations in which Garudapacha is an ingredient. Preliminary studies have suggested that it is carbonate of magnesium. As the references of this mineral drug are scanty it has to be considered as an extra pharmacopeial drug. Attempt has to be made to establish the identity purity and safety of this mineral drug based on principles that have adopted for other minerals.

A COMPARATIVE PHARMACEUTICO-ANALYTICAL STUDY OF DHANANJAYADI VATI AND ITS MODIFIED LOZENGES

Vati Kalpana is one of the secondary preparations in Ayurvedic pharmaceutics. According to acharya Vagbhata, it is considered as an outcome of Kalka Kalpana1 . Dhananjayadi Vati is a formulation mentioned in Yogaratnakara under Kasa Chikitsa. Modification of classical and development of new dosage forms is currentday trend to fulfil needs like palatability, cost effectiveness and global acceptance of the product. Lozenges are one of the popular palatable solid dosage forms containing one or more medicaments in a flavored and sweetened base. In the present study an attempt was made to modify Vati into lozenges form and comparative pharmaceutico analytical study was carried out for understanding of each dosage was discussed.

Pharmaceutical and Preliminary Analytical Evaluation of Tutthamruta malahara

Malahara is an ointment an unique dosage form used for topical applications and have been introduced quite late as medicine in Ayurvedic System of Medicine. The current study aims to introduce Tutthamruta Malahara, as an easy preparation as explained in Rasatarangini a treatise of Ayurvedic Pharmaceutics (Ras Shastra avum Bhaishajya kalpna), with special indication in Paama Kushta. The formulation was prepared by adopting fusion method as per the classical reference. Analytical study was carried out to understand quality, purity of the formulation. Dark olive pastel green coloured, homogenous mixture with characteristic smell was obtained. Its refractive Index, spreadability, peroxide value acid values were 1.483, 11g.cm/ s, 41.01m eq O2/Kg, 0.35mg KOH/ g respectively and rancidity was absent. This study also evaluates the basic quality parameters of Malahara Kalpana.

Impact of Various Processes (<i>Samskara</i>) in Ayurvedic Pharmaceutics

In Ayurveda pharmaceutics, herbal drugs, minerals, metals, and gems are used as raw materials. Most of the minerals and metals are obtained from the mines and hence there is every chance of impurities and heterogeneous qualities due to the mixing of various substances and impurities. Hence these minerals and metals have to undergo various samskaras (processes) before being converted into medicines from raw states and then subsequent use for internal administration. Due to these processes, the natural qualities of the drugs get modified and converted into new therapeutic properties. The present study is planned to identify some important processes of Rasashastra (Indian alchemy) and their impact on the physical, chemical and therapeutic properties of the final product. Conversion of a raw drug into medicinal form has a mammoth impact such as palatability, increased shelf life, feasibility during travelling, maintaining accurate dosing and ease of administration. Shodhana (detoxification) brings out physical, chemical and biological changes in the drug. Wet trituration modifies the analytical parameters of the drug which in turn facilitates the absorption process. Due to maranaa (incineration), toxic effects are nullified and drugs become therapeutically more effective. Thus, various processes described in Rasashastra show multidimensional pharmaceutical and therapeutical implications in Ayurvedic pharmaceutics.

A Conceptual Review of Dhanyaka Ghrita

Ayurvedic pharmaceutics deals with various methods of preparation of medicines. Sneha Kalpana is one of them and it may be defined as a pharmaceutical process which prepare oleaginous medicaments by using substances like Kalka, Drava dravya i.e., Swaras, kwatha etc.in specific proportion and subjecting to a unique heating pattern and duration to fulfil certain pharmaceutical parameters. This process ensures transformation of active therapeutic properties of the ingredients to the solvents. Ghrita formulations are included under the Sneha Kalpana. Ghrita is considered to be best because of its unique nature of incorporating the properties of the drugs with which it comes in contact without leaving its own natural qualities. Total four references of Dhanyaka Ghrita are available in Vangasen Samhita. It is indicated in Atisara, Ajirna, Amvata, Amashoola, Gudashoola, Vankshanshoola, Yonishoola, Amavata, Udavarta, Arsharaga etc.

Scientific Overlook of Shodhan Concept in Ayurvedic Pharmaceutics: Metals and minerals

Shodhan, unique concept of purification & potentiation in Ayurvedic pharmaceutics, specially mentioned for metals and minerals which have been indicated in range of disorders from common (fever etc.) to serious (cancer etc.) disorders. Shodhan of metals and minerals is extremely depending up on its physico-chemical properties. The metals & minerals having melting point more than 5000C (Swarna-Gold, Lauha-Iron, Tamra-Copper etc) subjected to Shodhan by Nirvapa (Heating and dipping into liquid medium) whereas Dhalana (Heating, melting and dipping into liquid medium) process is applied to the substance having melting point in range of 100 to 500 0C (Naga-Lead, Vanga-Tin, Yasad-Zinc etc.). Furthermore, substances of organic origin like praval (coral), mukta (pearl), shankha (conch shell) etc. and metals/ mineral having melting point less than 100 0C like parad (mercury) is mainly subjected to shodhan either by swedan (Boiling or Fomentation with liquid) or bhavana (Trituration with small quantity of liquid) process.

Pharmaceutical and Analytical Study of Two Types of Shatiyadi Kashaya Ghanvati

Among the Panchvidha kashaya kalpana, Kwatha kalpana is the most significant dosage form in Ayurvedic pharmaceutics which is used worldwide. However it has some disadvantages like shorter shelf life, bitter taste and inconvenience in preparation, transportation and storage. To overcome these difficulties the Kwatha kalpana is being modified into Ghanvati without compromising the therapeutic efficacy. Shatiyadi kashaya ghanvati is a modified tablet form of the classical polyherbal formulation Shatiyadi kashaya. In this study, efforts have been made to establish analytical standards for two types of Shatiyadi kashaya ghanvati which were not available till date. Aims and objectives: To prepare two types of Shatiyadi kashaya ghanvati as mentioned in classical texts and do the comparative analysis of their physico-chemical properties. Materials And Methods: The study involves the preparation of Shatiyadi kashaya as per Ayurvedic texts (type I acc. to Bhaishajya Ratnavali and type II acc. to Bharat Bhaishajya Ratnakar) which was then modified into Ghanvati. Thereafter samples of Shatiyadi kashaya ghanvati type I and type II were taken for the comparative pharmaceutical and physicochemical study. Result and Conclusion: The physico-chemical analysis of two types of Shatiyadi kashaya ghanvati revealed that all test parameters were within API limits which ensure the safety and purity of the drug.

Review on Nilibhringadi Taila: An Effective Keshya Medication

One third of the population, including both men and women, experience hair problems, making it one of the most prevalent issues in the world. Both men and women in India are very sensitive about their hair. Numerous reasons, including hormone imbalances, stress, rising work pressure, poor dietary practises, and excessive use of chemical cosmetics, have contributed to a rise in cases of hair diseases and hair problems. Losing one's hair can be embarrassing and detrimental to one's confidence and self-esteem. Ayurveda provides some successful external hair management therapies. The pharmaceutics and therapeutics of Ayurvedic dose forms are quite specialised. Sneha Kalpana is a collection of medicated Taila and Ghrita that treat a wide variety of diseases in people of all ages. Sneha kalpas produced by Ayurvedic pharmaceutics are broadly utilised for both cosmetic and therapeutic purposes. It is the only Kalpana used in all four ways that these formulations can be administered: Pana, Abhyanga, Nasya, and Basti. In Ayurveda, hairs are referred to as Kesha, and medications that are effective for hairs are referred to as Keshya medications. In this article we have made an effort to describe the formulation Nilibhringadi Taila which is described in Sahasrayogam and Chikitsa Manjari. Nilibhringadi Taila is an Ayurvedic and herbal oil, which is useful to improve the quality of hair, to treat split hairs, premature greying and baldness. All ingredients in formulation are best hair growth promoters. It is widely used and prescribed formulation in India. Here not much more work has been done on this formulation. So we are trying to review this formulation for further knowledge and scope.

Emergence of a Values-Based Category: The Case of Ayurvedic Pharmaceuticals

Scholars have theorized about four mechanisms of category formation, namely proof, consensus, truce and fiat. Of these, the mechanism of fiat is underexplored. Fiat is exercised most often by the state, which is expressed through a complex of policy regimes, that are influenced by power and politics. We study the influence of state policies, power and politics on category emergence in the context of Ayurvedic pharmaceuticals in colonial India. Adopting a qualitative approach and using historical archival data, we find that the overt exercise of state power makes interests and values of marginalized groups salient, triggering emotional as well as rational responses towards preserving those interests and values. In our study, the responses and rationalizations led to the emergence of a new category, Ayurvedic pharmaceuticals, while maintaining legitimacy for the group. Based on the findings of the study, we offer a model of category formation influenced by power, politics and policies, demonstrate the emergence of a values-based category driven by Weber’s substantive rationality, extend the idea of categories as political devices, and show how categories can act as expressions of social identities.

Kaphaketu Rasa as a Potential Anti-Inflammatory Ayurveda Herbo-Mineral Drug

In the present scenario, people are more prone to various diseases due to poor immunity arising due to lifestyle changes, smoking, and air pollution. Poor lifestyle is responsible for Kapha predominant diseases like Kasa, Shwasa, and other metabolic as well as auto-immune disorders. In Ayurvedic pharmaceutics, Kaphaketu Rasa (KKR) consisting of Aconitum chasmanthum Stapf ex Holmes (Vatsanabha), purified Borax (Tankana), Incinerated Conch shell (Shankha Bhasma), Piper longum Linn., and Zingiber officinale Roxb. Has been indicated for Kapha related diseases. Eight varieties by the name of KKR are documented in Ayurvedic texts. To understand the rationale of mentioning these varieties and to explore the potential areas of its usefulness in contemporary clinical conditions, this study was performed. Information regarding this formulation was collected from the major Ayurveda texts as well as electronic sources for available scientific evidence, commercial availability of the formulation was also checked. The available data supports its use as a potent Kapha pacifying formulation whereas scientific evidence supports its action as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic, antispasmodic, anti-allergic as well as mucolytic agent. However, this formulation needs to be studied through animal and clinical studies to understand and explore its mode of action, drug interactions, dose-response relationships, adverse reactions, etc., in different clinical conditions.

A critical review of popular ayurvedic dosage form Vati (tablet) and its analytical evaluation

Vati Kalpana is the outcome of Kalka Kalpana, one of the five basic Ayurvedic pharmaceutical preparations. Vati Kalpana is an essential component of Ayurvedic pharmaceutics because of its various benefits, including ease of administration, palatability, and ease of dispensing and transportation. Vati Kalpana is a pharmacological method in which the powder of raw drugs (herbal or Herbo minerals) is triturated with Kasayam, juice, or even honey, and the medicines are prepared as pills or tablets. The process of defining and agreeing on technological standards is known as standardization. Raw drug collection, in-process standardization, and final product are all extensively inspected in this standardization process, which is then completed by different analytical tests. So we'll talk about Vati Kalpana and its analytical parameters in this article.

Review on Vaidyaka Paribhasha Pradipa- A Comprehensive Treatise of Indian Pharmaceuticals by Govind Sen

Vaidyaka Paribhasha Pradipa was written by Govind Sen, son of Krishna Vallabh Sen. Vidyotini Hindi Tika was written by Indradev Tripathi. The book Vaidyaka Paribhasha Pradipa consists of almost all references collected from various Samhitas regarding the fundamental principles and different Ayurvedic herbal pharmaceutical preparations and descriptions on Panchakarma. The whole content of the book is divided into 4 Khandas. Prathama khanda deals with Mana paribhasha, Dravya samgrahana vidhi, and shelf life of different Kalpana etc. Dwitiya khanda deals with Panchavidha kashaya kalpana and its Upakalpana and dose. Tritiya khanda deals with Sneha kalpana, Sandhana kalpana and Paribhasha of different Gana. Chaturtha khanda deals with Panchakarma procedures and Sneha murchana. The present book review mainly focuses to highlight the framework of Vaidyaka Paribhasha Pradipa, provides information about the author, details of 4 Khandas, a special contribution to the field of pharmaceutical science by the author. Thus, Vaidyaka Paribhasha Pradipa, the compilation book on Bhaishajya Kalpana is a very essential and mandatory book for those who aspire to gain basic, clear, and thorough knowledge in Ayurvedic pharmaceuticals. It is one of the indispensable reference books. The present book is designed to help the young practitioners who prepare medicines and graduates and post-graduate scholars get a clear idea of medicine preparation.

Evaluation of Repeated Dose (Sub Chronic) Toxicity Study of Shilasindur Prepared by Two Different Methods Along with Its Characterization and Antimicrobial Activity

Introduction: Rasaushadhies (metal and mineral) preparations are unique preparations that include Bhasma, herbo-mineral preparations and Kupipakwa rasayana hold a significant place in Ayurvedic pharmaceutics. Nearly 70 % of formulations include a combination of one or more metallic/mineral with several herbs which have a supporting role in improving efficacy, relieving symptoms of the disease and to achieve long and healthy life. Shilasindur is a one of the Kupipakwa rasayana containing mercury, sulphur and arsenic disulphide and indicated in skin disorders, respiratory tract disorders and other infectious diseases.
 Aim and Objectives: Evaluation of repeated dose (Sub chronic) toxicity study of Shilasindur along with its characterization and antimicrobial activity.
 Materials & Methods: Shilasindur will be prepared in three batches as per classical reference and by using Electric Muffle furnace. The prepared formulation will be assessed with Organoleptic characters, physicochemical parameters and ICP – AES (Inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy), FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy), XRD (X-Ray Diffraction). Sub chronic toxicity study will be carried out according to the OECD guidelines 408 and 452 as well as CCRAS guidelines of safety and toxicity. Epsilometer test (E-test) will be used to check antimicrobial activity of Shilasindur.
 Results: The analytical parameters will be assessed to establish the pharmaceutical standardization. Toxicity study will be done in three doses to ensure its safety. Statistical analysis will be done by applying unpaired t-test and ANOVA test.
 Conclusion: If significant positive results obtained in this work then it will be a valuable contribution and evidence that the drug Shilasindur is safe for consumption at treatment doses.

PROCESS VALIDATION AND GC ANALYSIS OF PATHADISURA, A FERMENTED AYURVEDIC PRODUCT USED IN SHWAS VYADHI [BRONCHIAL ASTHMA

Pathadisura [PS] is an ayurvedic fermented formulation, prescribed for respiratory disorders. It contains Suramanda prepared from (Rice grains), Guda (Jaggery) and herbal drugs viz Patha Murva, Rasna, Saral, Devdaru. The scientific preparation method and quality parameters of PS are not documented yet. Thus present study is aimed to develop and validate the preparation method and to generate quality standards for PS. Preparation of Sura, Suramanda and PS was done as per standard protocols of ayurvedic pharmaceutics blended with modern techniques. All herbal drugs, Sura and PS were tested with standard analytical methods. Obtained values for herbal drugs were within limits as per API standards, signify purity of plant materials. Study result provides organoleptic, physico-chemical values and gas chromatography quality standards for Sura and Pathadisura. Standard operating procedure for preparation of Sura and Pathadisura is developed and validated by using standard methods of analysis. It could be used in further studies. KEYWORDS: Pathadi Sura, Sura, Annamanda, Fermentation, GC Analysis.

Bhavana, an Ayurvedic Pharmaceutical Method and a Versatile Drug Delivery Platform to Prepare Potentiated Micro-Nano-Sized Drugs: Core Concept and Its Current Relevance.

Scholars of ancient Ayurveda (Indian system of medicine) were extremely reasonable and had strong scientific rationality in fundamental concepts, which are also applied to drug manufacture and therapy. Bhavana is a unique traditional method of transformation of raw material/substances into the drug by levigation or wet grinding of powdered drugs with juice/decoction/solution of plant, animal, or mineral origin. This method adds the unique capability of affecting the physicochemical and biological properties of a drug, making the drug quicker, augmented, and persistent action with minimal dose. Despite the fact that Bhavana has a wide range of applications in Ayurvedic pharmaceutics, there is only a limited amount of knowledge of its fundamental notions. A comprehensive review was performed on the core concepts of Bhavana, alongside its possible pharmacotherapeutic effects and relevance in drug development, by probing Ayurvedic claims in light of published pharmaceutical, analytical, and pharmacological reports. Various processes, such as thermo- and photochemistry, physicochemical reactions, and mechanic chemical changes, appear to occur during Bhavana.

Preparation of Gomaya Swarasa (cow dung-expressed juice)

BACKGROUND: Gomaya Swarasa (Cow dung expressed juice) is one of the commonly used materials in Ayurvedic Pharmaceutics. Available Ayurvedic pharmacopeias provide inadequate information about the process of preparation of Gomaya Swarasa. This article deals with the preparation of Gomaya Swarasa and its preliminary pharmaceutical evaluation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fresh Gomaya (cow dung) obtained from Bos primigenius indicus species was used to prepare Gomaya Swarasa by using two different methods: first, by keeping a piece of clean muslin cloth inside the Gomaya for one Yama three hours and extracting the Swarasa by squeezing it. In another method, water was added, in three different ratios: half, same, and double the quantity with freshly collected Gomaya and properly mixed, set aside for three hours, and finally kept in a muslin cloth and tied like a Pottali for twenty four hours. The Swarasa obtained were collected on the following day; the yield, consistency, specific gravity, and pH were analyzed following standard methods of API. Each method was repeated three times. RESULTS: No yield was obtained in the first method of extraction. The maximum quantity of Swarasa obtained was 74% in 1:2 (Gomaya: water) ratio dilution, followed by 37.4% in 1:1 ratio dilution. The consistency of Swarasa obtained in 1:1/2 dilution was very thick with an average specific gravity of 1.009, whereas that in 1:1 dilution is somewhat thick but more liquid in nature with an average specific gravity of 1.006. The Swarasa obtained from 1:2 dilution is thin and of liquid consistency with an average specific gravity of 1.004. The maximum average pH obtained is 7.56 in 1:1/2 dilution, and the minimum average pH is 6.28 in 1:2 ratio dilution. CONCLUSION: Gomaya Swarasa prepared by adding the double quantity of water can be taken as a better method of preparation in terms of yield, consistency, and specific gravity. However, the pH of Gomaya Swarasa from this method was slightly acidic (average pH-6.28) in nature. Thus, Swarasa from 1:1 dilution can be taken as standard in terms of pH, where the other factors such as yield, consistency, and specific gravity are also acceptable. The Swarasa obtained from different dilutions can be used in pharmaceutics based on its need in terms of pH, yield, consistency, and specific gravity.