Ayurvedic Preparations Research Articles

A Recent Update on Ayurvedic Anti-asthmatic Formulations: Highlighting the Role of Major Anti-asthmatic Plants

Abstract: Asthma is a chronic heterogeneous airway obstruction disorder defined by a complex cascade of pathophysiological conditions that lead to recurring bronchial hyper-responsiveness and underlying inflammation, lowering the patient’s quality of life. Despite the availability of various synthetic medications for the management of asthma, it has become one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Furthermore, the present allopathic treatment possesses severe long-term negative effects, which make people more attracted to the safer and easily available indigenous traditional and Ayurvedic system of medicine. Ayurveda is regarded as the “Mother of all healing” and “Science of Life,” which treats all the ailments, including asthma, by restoring a balance between three main components of the body- Vata, Pitta, and Dosha. Various clinically effective and less toxic anti- asthmatic Ayurvedic herbal preparations are available for the management of asthma and related complications which act by causing mast cell deactivation, inhibition of Th1, Th2, Th7 response, Tcell suppression, etc., therefore, efforts have been made to compile all the relevant literature related to the ayurvedic anti-asthmatic formulations and scrutinize the efficacy of selected plants present in the majority in those formulations in asthma along with the structure and mode of action of phytoconstituent responsible for designing novel molecules with better efficacy. Research on these selected plants can also have economic significance as various constituents isolated from these plants for their anti-asthmatic effect can further be explored to discover their potential in medicinal, diagnostic and cosmetic field.

Preclinical thyroid hormone profile studies of an ayurvedic medicine Parthadyarishta after chronic administration to male Sprague-Dawley rats

Background: Parthadyarishta (PRTm) is an Ayurvedic preparation used as a traditional medicine to treat heart disease. This research was designed to study the thyroid hormone profile after chronic administration of this drug. Methods: Twenty healthy Sprague-Dawley male rats (90-110 g) were randomly divided into a control group and an experimental group. The experimental group was assigned to receive the drug at a dose of 40 ml/kg of body weight orally. After 28 days of treatment, blood samples were collected to carry out biochemical tests to determine the thyroid hormone safety profile. Serum circulating levels of total thyroxine (tT4), total triiodothyronine (tT3), free thyroxine (fT4), free triiodothyronine (fT3), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) were measured by Chemiluminescent Microparticle Immunoassay (CMIA) method. Results: This study showed statistically significant (p=0.008) [21.93%] decrease in tT3 level and statistically significant (p=0.047) [10.73%] increase in fT3 level in the rats. Also, statistically insignificant decrease in tT4 level and increase in fT4 level were observed. There is a [49.96 %] decrease in TSH level (p=0.371). The results suggested that Parthadyarishta have exerted an opposite effect on both the total and free form of T3 by increasing the free form (fT3) though causing decrease in the total form (tT3). Conclusions: As Parthadyarishta has significant impact on thyroid hormone levels so it is recommended to use it cautiously for chronic use specially in cardiac patients. Further studies are needed to determine the toxicological profile of Parthadyarishta and its effect on cardiovascular system through interference in thyroid function.

Saraca asoca (Roxb.) de Klilde, a sacred tree: its nutritional value, elemental composition and anti-nutritional content

The sacred Saraca asoca (Roxb.) de Klilde tree holds significant medicinal value and is utilized in ayurvedic preparations to treat various health conditions. This research investigated the nutritional, elemental and anti-nutritional properties of S. asoca leaves and flowers. The nutritional qualities of the tree parts were examined using the muffle furnace and micro-Kjeldahl techniques. Titration techniques were used to assess the anti-nutritional content of plants, whereas EDX (Energy dispersive X-ray) was used to determine the mineral content. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of tannins, phenols and flavonoids, along with antioxidant properties that could neutralize free radicals generated by metabolic processes in the body. Nutritional analysis indicated that the floral parts of S. asoca had higher moisture, carbohydrate and crude fat content than the leaves. Conversely, the leaves had elevated ash levels, crude fiber and protein. Leaf samples showed higher concentrations of minerals like calcium, phosphorus, sodium, iodine, iron and manganese compared to the floral samples. In contrast, flower samples exhibited higher potassium, copper, silicon and zinc levels. These findings highlight the rich nutritional profile, abundant phytochemicals and essential minerals in both tree parts, with low anti-nutrient content. This information could be instrumental in developing phytopharmaceuticals and nutritious food products. Additionally, utilizing these tree parts could offer a cost-effective way to enhance nutrient intake and address nutritional deficiencies in humans and animals.

UNRAVELLING THE WISDOM OF KHARALIYA RASAYANA: A REVIEW

Kharaliya Rasayana is a type of Ayurvedic medicine preparation classified under the category of Rasayana, which are herbal or Herbo-mineral formulations used for rejuvenation and to enhance longevity and vitality. The term "Kharaliya" refers to the method of preparation where ingredients are triturated together using a mortar and pestle (Khalva Yantra). This grinding process is integral to achieving the desired therapeutic properties of the formulation. This review goes into the ancient text on Kharaliya Rasayana, exploring its principles, formulations, and therapeutic applications. Drawing upon classical Ayurvedic texts and contemporary research, the article provides a critical analysis of Kharaliya Rasayana relevance in modern healthcare. Kharaliya Rasayana preparations are known for their ability to nourish the body, boost immunity and promote overall well-being. They are often used to treat chronic illnesses, enhance vitality and support natural healing processes of the body.

Yashadamritamalaharam Application in the Management of Parikarthika - A Comprehensive Analytical Review

Parikartika is one among the anorectal diseases, which can be correlated with fissure in ano in the contemporary medicine. Parikartika is a disease condition rather than a single entity disease, which is usually triggered by other factors as per Ayurveda classics. It is usually described as a very painful condition which mostly affects the quality living. The disease pathology should be analyzed, studied and appropriate therapeutic measures should be advised to tackle and prevent the recurrence. There are many therapeutic methods available today for the treatment of Parikartika both in modern and Ayurveda. Modern methods are no replace oral pain medications, topical ointments, botulin injections surgical interventions etc. These have usually side effects and cause inconvenience to the patients. Ayurvedic preparations are also very effective, out of which a convenient, patient friendly easy method must be chosen. Yashadamrita malahara is a Malahara preparation from classical rasa text Rasatarangini which has wound healing properties which can be applied as an ointment or as Pichu. Aims and Objectives: This is an in-depth review analysis of Parikartika samprapti and the effect of Yashadamrita malahara in the management of the disease. Materials and methods: An attempt has been made to analyze the Samprapti ghatakas of Parikartika and the pharmacological actions of Yashadamrita malahara, and to explain the probable mode of action of the drug in the disease. Discussion and conclusion: Evaluation of the effect of Yashadamrita malahara and its therapeutic benefits in Parikartika by its mode of action.

PHARMACEUTICAL ANALYTICAL STUDY OF VIMALA VARTI: AN AYURVEDIC OPHTHALMIC PREPARATION

Varti Kalpana, a derivative of Vati Kalpana, represents Ayurvedic suppository preparations with specific therapeutic applications. Vimala Varti, an herbal ophthalmic suppository detailed in the Sahasra Yogam under Netraroga Chikitsa, addresses various eye ailments such as Timira, Kacha, Netra Kandu, and Patala Roga. This formulation comprises eight herbal ingredients and one Bhavana Dravya. The preparation of Vimala Varti involved the Bhavana method. A comprehensive pharmaceutical study was conducted to evaluate the organoleptic and phytochemical parameters of Vimala Varti, ensuring its suitability for ophthalmic use. The final product was assessed for various parameters, including pH, hardness, friability, and loss on drying etc. pH was 6.26, hardness-5, friability 0.7.89%, loss on drying 13.6%, uniformity of weight was within the limit, total ash -3%, water soluble extractive 19.2%, acid insoluble ash 1%. These parameters can be considered the preliminary standards for Vimala Varti. This study highlights the potential of Vimala Varti as a reliable Ayurvedic treatment for eye disorders, warranting further clinical research to validate its efficacy and therapeutic benefits.

Steroidal and gonadotropin hormone profile studies of a classical ayurvedic preparation of “Saraguna Balijarita Makardhwaja” after chronic administration to male Sprague-Dawley rats

Background: Saraguna Balijarita Makardhwaja (SGM) is an Ayurvedic preparation used as a traditional antipyretic in the rural population. This research work was designed to get an overview of steroidal and gonadotropin hormone profiles after chronic administration of this drug. Methods: The acute pharmacological test of SGM recorded no death or any signs of effectivity even at the highest dose of 4000 mg/kg body weight. For chronic pharmacological evaluation, sixteen healthy Sprague-Dawley male rats were randomly divided into two groups, one group was a control group and the other was an experimental group. The experimental group was assigned to receive the drug at a dose of 400 mg/kg of body weight orally. After 28 days of treatment, blood samples were collected for biochemical tests. Results: The research showed the following effects on the steroidal and gonadotropin hormone profile. In this study, serum circulating level of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), testosterone level, progesterone, 17-beta-estradiol (E2), luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) were measured to determine safety profile study of SGM after chronic administration. There were no significant differences in any parameters which is suggesting that SGM has no effect of the steroidal and hormone profile. Conclusions: According to studies, SGM has no harmful effect on the steroid and hormone profiles after chronic treatment. Further studies are needed to establish the safety aspects of SGM.

Pharmacological Evaluation of Ayurvedic Nicotiana tobacum Formulation for Accelerated Wound-healing: An Experimental Study

Background: The need for pharmacognostic-based compounds with various medicinal actions is increasing to address issues such as drug resistance, new diseases, and the toxicity of already utilized chemical compounds. The plant kingdom provides numerous bioactive molecules that have great promise to help solve these challenges, resulting in the rise of innovative solutions in the pharmaceutical sector. Ayurvedic preparations, including tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) are considered a viable method due to their long history in herbal therapy and several medical advantages. Methods: The study aims to investigate the wound-healing properties of the tobacco plant. Tobacco leaves were utilized in the production of a traditional ayurveda formulation, which included mashi formulations such as anterdhum padhati mashi, bahirdhum padhati mashi, and muffle furnace mashi, in accordance with traditional ayurvedic methods. Aqueous and alcoholic extracts of tobacco leaves were also produced. The effectiveness of these formulations in wound-healing was evaluated using an Excision model in mice. Results: The bahirdhum padhati mashi with methanolic discharge showed significantly greater wound-healing capacity compared to a standard medication formulation, as indicated by comparative study. Conclusion: Ultimately, the bahirdhum padhati mashi made from tobacco shows potential for healing wounds and could be a useful agent for wound-healing. The results of this experimental study suggest that ayurvedic formulations could be effective in treating wound-healing difficulties. Additional research and clinical studies are needed to confirm the safety, effectiveness, and possible use in wound treatment.

An Ayurveda Approach Towards Acute Sciatica with Paraesthesia

Sciatica is pain or paraesthesia which is radiates path of the sciatic nerve and its branches from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down to the leg. A 41-year-old female patient with an acute low back ache to radiate to left lower limb with paraesthesia for three months came to Kayachikitsa IPD of Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda College on 18/3/24. The pain was graded eight out of ten in the VAS pain scale and her overall Oswestry low back pain score is 32 which means severe functional disability. She underwent for Vatakapha hara chikitsa protocol. It includes Rookshana, Snigda sweda, Vata hara, and Brihmana chikitsa. Ayurvedic preparations like Aadarisahacharadi kasayam, Suntibaladi choornam Vyoshadi guggulu were given Swedam, Patrapoliswedam, and Pizhichil, Shastika pinda swedam, Yoga vasti along with passive exercise were given. After 30 days of treatment outcome of these treatments found to be very positive. There was a substantial recovery in walking duration, heaviness, touch temperature perception and pain relief was observed. Subjective parameters like, SLR test, Oswestry low back pain disability questionnaire, Sciatica bothersome index, Sciatica frequency index, Roland morris low back pain and disability questionnaire was taken for assessment parameters. The patient got relief in all parameters after treatment. It was proved significant improvement of patient’s primary symptoms. These therapies reduce pain, stiffness and improve circulation.

Kerala Ayurveda Ostoact Tablet treats osteoporosis in ovariectomized rat model via regulating RANKL/OPG pathway

Background and aimKerala Ayurveda Ostoact Tablet (OAT) is a traditional Ayurvedic preparation that might use for the management of joint pain, bone pain and arthritis. The goal of present research was to evaluate the activity of OAT in improving postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMO) in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Experimental proceduresFemale rats were ovariectomized bilaterally and distributed into 6 groups (n = 8) as Sham control (SC), Ovariectomy control (OVX), OVX with OAT (50 mg/kg, p.o.), OVX with OAT (100 mg/kg, p.o.) and OVX with OAT (150 mg/kg, p.o.) and Standard group (17β-estradiol, 30 μg/kg, s.c.). SC group rats went through a sham operation procedure. The animals were treated with an oral dose of OAT (50, 100 and 150 mg/kg) for 90 days. Body weight, tail skin temperature (TST) Serum hormones, bone turnover parameters, proinflammatory cytokines, bone physical parameters, histopathological analysis (uterus, vagina, and femur) and microcomputed tomography of the femur were measured on the 90th day of treatment. A new high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) process has been established for the standardization of OAT. Results and conclusionOVX rats treated with OAT exhibited a significant decrease in TST, improved serum hormonal and lipid profile, bone turnover markers and pro-inflammatory cytokines, bone physical properties, increased bone density, and enhanced cytological and histological alterations with significant improvement in rat's body weight. In addition, OAT administration enhanced the weakening of trabecular bone microarchitecture triggered by OVX confirmed by microcomputed tomography (micro-CT). These findings imply that OAT may help treat osteoporosis in women brought on by menopause.

Estimation of fluoride levels in indigenous Ayurvedic preparations prescribed for infants, toddlers, and preschool children in Kerala, India

Estimation of fluoride levels in indigenous Ayurvedic preparations prescribed for infants, toddlers, and preschool children in Kerala, India

Exploring the safety of Ayurvedic mercurial preparation “Rasa Sindura:” a scoping review of in vitro and in vivo studies

Exploring the safety of Ayurvedic mercurial preparation “Rasa Sindura:” a scoping review of in vitro and in vivo studies

Transforming Medicinal Oil into Advanced Gel: An Update on Advancements.

The present study delves into the evolution of traditional Ayurvedic oil preparations through innovative strategies to develop advanced gel formulations, aiming at amplifying their therapeutic efficacy. Ayurvedic oils have a rich historical context in healing practices, yet their conversion into contemporary gel-based formulations represents a revolutionary approach to augment their medicinal potential. The primary objective of this transformation is to leverage scientific advancements and modern pharmaceutical techniques to enhance the application, absorption, and overall therapeutic impact of these traditional remedies. By encapsulating the essential constituents of Ayurvedic oils within gel matrices, these novel strategies endeavor to improve their stability, bioavailability, and targeted delivery mechanisms. This review highlights the fusion of traditional Ayurvedic wisdom with cutting-edge pharmaceutical technology, paving the way for more effective and accessible utilization of these revered remedies in modern healthcare.

Quantification of the main constituents of “sitopaladi churna—Ayurvedic multi-herbal preparation” using a validated high-performance thin-layer chromatography method

Quantification of the main constituents of “sitopaladi churna—Ayurvedic multi-herbal preparation” using a validated high-performance thin-layer chromatography method

Therapeutic efficacy of Punarnavadi mandura against phenylhydrazine-induced hemolytic anemia in rats

Background & aimHemolytic anemia is a blood disorder whose incidence is increasing in the world in recent years especially after the pandemic. Conventional treatments include use of steroids and immunosuppresants that are accompanied by numerous adverse effects. With growing interest in using complex multi-component formulations for multi-targeted therapy, the present study aims to investigate the therapeutic efficacy of a traditional Ayurvedic herbomineral preparation, Punarnavadi Mandura, which has been traditionally used as a supplement in iron-deficiency anemia, against phenylhydrazine-induced hemolytic anemia in rodent models. Experimental approachesWe employ a combination of in vivo and in silico methods in this work to study the therapeutic potential and to understand the possible molecular targets of this traditional formulation. Conventional drugs prednisolone and ferrous sulphate were used for comparison. Results and conclusionThe in vivo studies confirm the ability of Punarnavadi Mandura to reverse pathological changes associated with hemolytic anemia at 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg concentration. It restored hemoglobin, bilirubin and white blood cell levels to normal and reduced reticulocytes, hemosiderin and Gamna Gandy bodies in the liver, spleen and kidney. In silico studies suggested that the key constituents in Punarnavadi Mandura interact with high affinity to erythropoietic receptor which could contribute to erythropoiesis. The in silico study also predicted that the phytoconstituents of Punarnavadi Mandura could inhibit TNF-α activity which was validated using gene expression studies.

Antiviral and Cytoprotective Effect of Zinc (Yasad Bhasma) Based Nanoformulations Against Bovine Coronavirus.

Ayurvedic medicine utilizes metal-based preparations, known as bhasmas, to treat various health conditions. Yasad bhasma (YB), a zinc-based ayurvedic preparation, shows promise as a potential candidate for developing zinc-based nanomedicines with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In this study, we synthesized a formulation combining YB and hydroxychloroquine (HC) as a zinc ionophore (YBHC) and investigated its biocompatibility and antiviral effects against buffalo calf coronavirus (BCoV) in Vero cells. Our results demonstrated that the formulation exhibited good conformity and enhanced cell proliferation compared to untreated cells. Additionally, no cytopathic effects were observed in BCoV-infected Vero cells treated with YBHC and YB, while infected control cells exhibited cytopathic effects. YB showed cytoprotection by promoting epithelial tissue turnover. We further explored whether YB/YBHC exerted a lysosomotropic effect to produce antiviral effects on coronavirus-adapted Vero cells, but no cell internalization was observed. In addition to the synergistic antiviral effect of YB and HC, YB may play a vital role in rejuvenating affected tissues.

Efficient protocol for micropropagation of medicinal forest tree Shyonak (Oroxylum indicum) by silver nitrate promoted high frequency shoot proliferation

Oroxylum indicum, a significant medicinal plant in the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR), faces ecological and economic challenges due to high demand for its traditional herbal remedies, leading to overexploitation. To combat this, the authors have developed an in vitro propagation protocol aimed at achieving robust shoot proliferation. Using nodal segments from in vitro germinated seedlings, the best results were obtained with a medium containing only benzyladenine (BA) at 22.2 µM. Despite basal callus formation and reduced shoot numbers, the addition of silver nitrate improved shoot proliferation and overall plant health. For in vitro root induction and proliferation, a medium enriched with Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) at 2.85 µM proved the most effective. Successful transplantation of acclimatized plantlets to field conditions was achieved. This protocol not only aids O. indicum conservation but also holds socio-economic potential for Himalayan communities, as its bark is valuable in commercial Ayurvedic preparations, including Dashamoolarishta.

Pest Status, Damage and Biology of an Invasive Pink Pineapple Mealybug, Dysmicoccus brevipes (Cockrell) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) on Sweet flag (Acorus calamus Linn.): First Report in India

Acorus calamus Linn is a medicinal plant that also has pesticidal properties, primarily against storage pests of agricultural commodities. The creeping rhizomes are the economic part of the plant and are in high demand in Ayurvedic medicine preparation. So far, the pest attacks have not posed a major issue in terms of the economic yield of the plant. In 2022, the presence of an invasive pest, Dysmicoccus brevipes Cockerell, was recorded in the rhizosphere of sweet flag plants maintained at the Pepper Research Station campus, Panniyur, Kannur, Kerala, India. The polyphagous pest has expanded its host range on A. calamus. The pest attack was recorded from February 2022 onwards, which was the world's first report. Its biology was evaluated in the laboratory, and it was found that the pest is a parthenogenetic race with an average life cycle of 59±2.26 days and a fecundity range of 30-74 offspring per adult. Future research should focus on bio-intensive sustainable management packages to protect the IUCN-red list categorized sweet flag from extinction.

Critical Review of Phanta Kalpana and Phytochemical Comparison of Panchakola Phanta with Panchakola Kashaya

Phanta Kalpana, the process of herbal hot infusion is one of the five fundamental Ayurvedic preparations. A unique Kalpana is specifically mentioned for those with a minor illness, little strength, and younger age. However, this Kalpana is not widely utilizing because of the unavailability of scientific data and uncertainty about its action. Even though it is a simple Kalpana while analyzing available references numerous differences were determined among Ayurvedic classics. Differences of opinion or expression of comments noted in drug to water ratio, order mixing of water and drug, temperature of the water, time of contact, Powder size, and the need for stir and strain. Different experiments were conducted based on these parameters. And it shows their significance. In addition, a market sample examination of two separate Kashaya Choornas of two companies produced results with completely different powder sizes. Product output will vary due to these practical variations unless later changes are made to other parameters. Comparative physiochemical and phytochemical analyses of Kashaya and Phanta Kashaya were done. Values are almost similar except for total solid content and GCMS. Total solid rises along with the reduction in Kashya. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents show almost similar values, whereas GCMS analysis shows peaks of some molecules in Phanta Kashaya and peaks of some other molecules in Kashaya Kalpana. So, each of these two Kalpana favors solubilizing and makes bioavailable different ranges of biomolecules. So, each of these Kalpana has a different and specific utility and function.

Abstract A089: Role of Vardhamana Pippali Rasayana (VPR) in human breast cancer cells

Abstract Serious concerns include delayed diagnosis and adverse side-effects of conventional treatment leading to residual morbidity in Breast cancer (BC) globally. Traditional Indian medicines/herbs via combination of conventional cancer are gaining increasing acceptance worldwide, playing a pivotal role as proven by their efficacy evaluation studies. Many plants are known to reduce the cell proliferation and tumor development after their treatment. Vardhamana Pippali Rasayana (VPR), an Ayurvedic herbal preparation of pippali (Piper longum) in gradually increasing and tapering dose is used to treat many cancers without any adverse side-effects. However, its anti-cancer role in breast cancer is not known yet. The present study has explored the cytotoxic and apoptotic effects of VPR in triplicates on human breast cancer (MCF7) and normal breast epithelial (MCF10A) cell lines at different concentrations after extracting piperine in aqueous and hydro-alcoholic soxhlet extract (0.25 to 50 μg/μl). The cytotoxic activity was carried out by MTT assay and results showed that a low IC50 was observed at 3.75 μg/μl of VPR against MCF-7 as compared with normal breast epithelial cells. Detection of apoptotic cells using suitable Annexin V was done and there was a time-dependent increase in percentage of annexin V positive cells upon treatment. The above results indicate that VPR may have a strong anti-cancerous potential. But other functional assays are warranted to validate the efficacy of the drug against breast cancer which are under progress in our laboratory. Citation Format: Dr.Richa Tripathi, Shivam Singh, Subhash Gupta, VG Huddar, Tanuja M Nesari, Ashok Sharma. Role of Vardhamana Pippali Rasayana (VPR) in human breast cancer cells [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: Advances in Breast Cancer Research; 2023 Oct 19-22; San Diego, California. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(3 Suppl_1):Abstract nr A089.