The Ayurvedic concepts of Pathya (wholesome practices) and Apathya (unwholesome practices), emphasizing their roles in health maintenance and disease management. This study aims to explore the conceptual framework of Pathya-Apathya as described in the Brihatrayi with its clinical significance in the prevention and management of diseases. A literature-based study was conducted through a critical review of classical Ayurvedic texts, including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya, to explore and analyze the concepts of Pathya and Apathya beginning with their derivation. Brihattrayi highlights dietary classifications that guide contemporary eating habits, underscoring the importance of food selection, combination, and timing for sustaining digestive health and preventing ailments. Despite the availability of traditional foods, modern processed options threaten nutritional integrity. Additionally, the text stresses that lifestyle practices and adherence to Pathya are critical for combating rising lifestyle disorders. It advocates a gradual transition to healthier habits, suggesting that neglecting diet and lifestyle leads to treatment failures. The Ayurvedic framework integrates nutrition, behavior, and environmental factors, aligning with current preventive and lifestyle medicine approaches.
The rapid growth of gym culture and recreational fitness has led to an increasing emphasis on effective recovery strategies that can enhance performance, reduce fatigue, and minimize the risk of exercise-related injuries. While contemporary sports medicine offers several recovery modalities, there is growing interest in traditional systems of medicine that provide holistic and sustainable approaches to health. Abhyanga, a classical Ayurvedic oil massage described as an integral part of Dinacharya, has long been advocated for promoting strength, maintaining musculoskeletal health, alleviating fatigue, and preserving overall well-being. This review explores the potential relevance of Abhyanga in the context of exercise recovery by integrating classical Ayurvedic concepts with current scientific evidence. This review examined literature from Ayurvedic texts and contemporary research on massage therapy, exercise physiology, musculoskeletal recovery, skin physiology, and sports medicine to assess the mechanisms and therapeutic benefits of Abhyanga. The available evidence suggests that regular Abhyanga may support recovery through improved circulation, enhanced lymphatic drainage, reduced muscle soreness and stiffness, better flexibility and neuromuscular function, and improved psychological relaxation. The therapeutic properties of sesame oil, particularly its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and tissue-nourishing effects, may further contribute to recovery and musculoskeletal health. Although the existing evidence is encouraging, well-designed clinical studies are needed to establish standardized protocols and provide stronger scientific support for the incorporation of Abhyanga into modern exercise recovery and sports rehabilitation programs. Integrating this time-tested Ayurvedic practice with contemporary fitness routines may offer a safe, holistic, and practical approach to improving recovery and overall physical performance.
Dietary diversity plays a vital role in disease prevention and management. Kulattha (Dolichos biflorus), commonly known as Horse gram, is a pulse of the family Leguminosae (Fabaceae) that is mentioned in classical Ayurvedic texts under the Shamidhanya Varga and used as a key ingredient in several dietary and medicinal formulations. This underutilised neglected pulse, native to South India, is consumed worldwide in various forms, including sprouted or boiled seeds, ground flour, and health beverages, as well as in traditional Indian preparations such as yusha (soup), ladoo, snacks, and salads. kulttha is rich in carbohydrates and proteins and contains substantial amounts of trace minerals such as iron, molybdenum, and calcium, together with Vitamin A, protein, pentosan, and water-soluble gum; other notable constituents include collidine and genistein. Owing to its favourable amino acid profile, Kulattha is nutritionally superior to many other pulses and represents a valuable grain legume with considerable nutritional and therapeutic potential. This review compiles classical Ayurvedic descriptions and contemporary scientific evidence on the nutritional composition, therapeutic properties, and dietary applications of Kulattha, and highlights its promise as a functional food for preventing and managing lifestyle-related disorders.
Hair is considered an important indicator of health, beauty, and personality. Hair loss disorders not only affect physical appearance but also have a significant psychological and social impact on an individual's quality of life. Alopecia areata is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterised by sudden, localised, non-scarring hair loss. In Ayurveda, a condition closely resembling alopecia areata is described as Indralupta under the category of K?udra Rogas. Classical Ayurvedic texts explain that vitiated Vata and Pitta Doshas cause hair loss, while aggravated Kapha and Rakta obstruct the hair follicles, preventing regrowth. The present review aims to critically analyze the Ayurvedic concept of Indralupta and correlate it with the contemporary understanding of alopecia areata. Various classical references regarding its etiology, pathogenesis, clinical features, and management have been compiled and reviewed. Particular emphasis is placed on Ahara Chikitsa (dietary therapy), a fundamental component of disease management in Ayurveda. Consumption of wholesome, Dosha-balancing, and Rasayana (rejuvenation)-promoting foods is advocated to nourish the Dhatus (tissues), especially Asthi Dhatu and its upadhatu (secondary tissue), Kesha (hair). Dietary measures such as including fresh fruits, green vegetables, milk, ghee, black sesame seeds, amalaki, and protein-rich foods are recommended, while excessive intake of spicy, sour, salty, fermented, processed, and incompatible foods (Viruddhahara) is discouraged. This review highlights the relevance of Ayurvedic principles, particularly Ahara Chikitsa(food treatment), in the holistic prevention and management of Indralupta. Integrating dietary regulation with appropriate Ayurvedic therapeutic interventions may offer a safe and comprehensive approach to improving hair health and promoting hair regrowth.
Cancer is regarded as one of the leading diseases of modern civilization. Although contemporary science has made significant progress in understanding its molecular basis, effective prevention and treatment strategies remain limited. In contrast to the analytical approach of modern medicine, Ayurveda adopts a holistic perspective, offering a comprehensive understanding of life, health, and disease. Ayurvedic principles and therapeutics provide valuable insights and potential alternative approaches for overall health and well-being. In Ayurveda, cancer-like conditions are described under Arbuda (tumor), characterized by deep-seated, slow-growing, and persistent swellings. The branch of Agadatantra deals with toxins (Visha) and their systemic effects, which can be correlated with chronic toxin exposure and disease development. These concepts highlight the possible role of internal toxins in cancer pathogenesis. In this context, Agada Yogas (Antidotal formulations) become important in disease management. Among the various formulations, Sarvakarmika Agada is one such Agada Yogas (Antidotal formulation) described in the Ashtanga Hridaya and traditionally indicated in the management of Vyantara Sarpa Damsha Chikitsa (Cross-breed snake bite). The ingredients of this formulation have been reported to possess significant pharmacological properties, including potential Anticancer activity. This article reviews the Anticancer potential of Sarvakarmika Agada. This review examines classical Ayurvedic texts and available scientific literature to evaluate the Anticancer activity of Sarvakarmika Agada, its individual components, and their relevance in cancer management.
Kanda Varga, a subgroup within the broader classification of Shaka Varga in Ayurvedic literature, encompasses underground plant parts such as tubers, rhizomes, and bulbs that serve as vital dietary and therapeutic resources. Widely mentioned in classical texts like the Charaka Sa?hita, Sushruta Sa?hita and the Nighantus, Kanda Dravyas are recognised for their Balya (strength-promoting), Br?imha?a (nourishing), Rasa-pradhana (taste-enhancing), Rasayana (nourishing) and Vi??ambhi (obstructing) properties. These underground plant materials play a crucial role in daily nutrition, particularly in promoting strength, improving digestion and enhancing tissue regeneration. Beyond their nutritive value, many Kanda dravyas exhibit specific medicinal actions and are employed in managing various disorders including Arshas (piles), Pa??u (anemia) and K?haya (emaciation). Additionally, the regional and seasonal availability of these tubers ensures their relevance in Rutucarya (seasonal regimen) and in local traditional healing practices. This paper aims to collect and compile the Kanda dravya mentioned in existing literature and critically review the pharmacological significance, dietary value and therapeutic versatility of the Kanda varga as described in the Brihatrayi, Bhavaprakasha Nighantu, Raja Nighantu, Kaiyadeva Nighantu, Madanaphala Nighantu, Priya Nighantu, highlighting the need for further research and conservation of these traditional resources in the context of changing food habits and agricultural practices.
Pernicious anaemia is a megaloblastic anaemia caused by impaired absorption of vitamin B12 due to deficiency of intrinsic factor, leading to defective erythropoiesis. In Ayurveda, this condition can be correlated with Pandu Roga, in which Agni plays a crucial role, where Jatharagni (primary digestive fire) and Dhatwagni (Raktagni) are mainly responsible for the Samprapti (pathogenesis) of Pandu Roga. Acharya Charaka stated that Pandu Roga is primarily associated with the vitiation of Rasavaha Srotas, and according to Acharya Sushruta, Pandu Roga is the disorder of Raktavaha Srotas. In Pandu Roga, due to Jatharagni Mandya, there is abnormal Pachana of Ahara and improper production of Ahararasa, which leads to the formation of Aam, resulting in a deficiency of nutrients that are essential for Rakta Dhatu formation. This impaired digestion leads into defective vitamin B12 absorption. Rasagni and Raktagni are the main Dhatwagni, which are affected in Pandu Roga. Normally, they help in the nourishment and transformation of tissues. Dysfunction of Rasagni and Raktagni leads to improper conversion of Rasa to Rakta, resulting in depletion of blood tissue. This can be correlated with defective erythropoiesis and production of abnormal red blood cells observed in pernicious anaemia. Thus, both Jatharagni and Raktagni Dushti contribute to the pathogenesis of the disease, which leads to deficiency of Vitamin B12 and results in Pernicious anaemia.
In Ayurveda, Garbha Siddhi (successful conception) is understood as the result of the appropriate interaction of Ritu (appropriate fertile period), Kshetra (healthy reproductive organs), Ambu (adequate nourishment), and Beeja (healthy sperm and ovum). In the present context, infertility is increasingly associated with psychological stress, disturbed metabolic status, and changing lifestyle patterns. Contemporary biomedical science explains stress-induced infertility primarily through dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. In contrast, Ayurveda places Agni (digestive fire) at the center of metabolic regulation, governing digestion, transformation, and tissue nourishment, thereby influencing overall physiological balance and homeostasis. The present study is a qualitative conceptual review based on classical Ayurvedic literature and relevant modern scientific publications. An integrative approach was adopted to examine the relationship between Agni, metabolic processes, and reproductive function. Psychological stress induces neuroendocrine alterations that interfere with hormonal balance and reproductive health. From an Ayurvedic perspective, Manasika (psychological) factors such as stress impair Agni, leading to the formation of Ama (toxins), obstruction of Srotas (channels), and derangement of Dhatu (tissue) nourishment. These changes adversely affect the quality and function of Shukra (sperm) and Artava (ovum), which are essential for conception. Such disturbances may be correlated with dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, including altered secretion of gonadotropins. Within this framework, Agni may be understood as a functional link between metabolic integrity and endocrine regulation. Agni plays a crucial role in maintaining the metabolic and physiological conditions necessary for Garbha Siddhi. Its impairment, particularly under the influence of psychological stress, may contribute to infertility through interconnected metabolic and neuroendocrine mechanisms. This perspective supports a more comprehensive approach to infertility by addressing both metabolic balance and psychological well-being.
Sesbania grandiflora (L.) Pers (SG) commonly known as ‘Agastya’ is a nutritionally and medicinally important plant widely used in traditional healthcare systems. Rich in bioactive phytoconstituents and essential nutrients, it has demonstrated diverse pharmacological activities. However, despite its extensive traditional use, comprehensive clinical evidence and modern formulation development remain limited. Data were collected from classical texts of Ayurveda, ethnobotanical records, scientific databases, and published articles. Information related to its plant characteristics, traditional uses, nutritional content, phytochemical compounds, pharmacological effects, toxicity studies, combined effects, and commercial uses was summarized. The review showed that SG has significant nutritional value and contains various bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, phenolic compounds, alkaloids, terpenoids, and glycosides. Experimental studies have demonstrated a broad range of biological effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and anticancer properties. Available toxicity studies suggest a favorable safety profile when used as recommended. Additionally, growing scientific interest has led to its use in functional foods, health supplements, herbal products, and commercially available health items. The combination of traditional knowledge and modern scientific findings shows that SG is a multifunctional medicinal plant with significant therapeutic, nutritional, and commercial value. Despite its extensive traditional use, SG requires further clinical validation and formulation development to establish its evidence-based therapeutic and nutraceutical applications. SG is a valuable medicinal and nutraceutical plant with diverse health-promoting properties and significant potential for application in functional foods and evidence-based healthcare.
Traditional knowledge preserved through folklore has served as an invaluable source of healthcare practices since ancient times. Similar to Ayurveda, folklore medicine emphasizes both the prevention and management of diseases using locally available medicinal plants and formulations. Sarvanga Tvagadi Alepa is one such traditional Ayurvedic polyherbal external lepa (medicated herbal paste) practiced by a folklore practitioner for the management of Ama (metabolic toxins/undigested metabolites)-associated Vata (functional principle governing movement) disorders, particularly inflammatory musculoskeletal conditions. The ingredients predominantly possess Katu (pungent), Tikta (bitter), and Kashaya (astringent) Rasa (taste), Ushna Veerya (hot potency), and Kapha-Vatahara (pacifies Kapha and Vata) properties, which facilitate Ama Pachana (digestion and elimination of metabolic toxins) and contribute to the alleviation of pain, swelling and stiffness. Published pharmacological studies have also demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, immunomodulatory and anti-arthritic activities of the individual ingredients, providing scientific support for their traditional use. This review critically compiles the classical Ayurvedic concepts, phytochemical constituents, pharmacological evidence, and therapeutic rationale of Sarvanga Tvagadi Alepa, while highlighting the need for further analytical, pharmacological and multicentric clinical studies to establish its quality, safety, mechanism of action and therapeutic efficacy.
Shodhana (purification) is a fundamental preliminary processing procedure in Rasashastra (the Ayurvedic science of mineral and metallic pharmaceutics), used to purify metals and minerals, reduce undesirable properties, and render them suitable for further pharmaceutical use. Yashada (zinc), a low-melting-point metal described in classical Ayurvedic literature, is purified by multiple methods in different texts. This review critically analyses the classical descriptions of Yashada shodhana in Ayurvedic and Rasashastra literature, compares general and drug-specific purification procedures, examines the purification media employed, and situates these classical descriptions alongside available modern analytical evidence. This review was structured in a PRISMA-informed format. Texts listed in Schedule I of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, available in physical form, together with other authoritative classical and secondary sources, were screened for procedure type, purification medium, number of repetitions, and textual variation. A PRISMA-style flow diagram, defined eligibility criteria, and a structured data-extraction sheet are reported to improve transparency. Descriptions of Yashada shodhana were identified in 25 classical and secondary texts (9 listed in Schedule I and 16 additional sources). Twenty-one distinct purification media were documented from plant, animal, and mineral sources. Godugdha (cow's milk) was the most frequently cited medium for Vishesha Shodhana, whereas taila, takra, gomutra, kanji, and kulattha kwatha were the media most commonly used for Samanya Shodhana. Repetitions ranged from 3 to 21, depending on the text and procedure. Classical Yashada shodhana represents a deliberate, rationally structured pharmaceutical process. Available modern analytical studies on Yashada bhasma (incinerated ash preparation) lend partial, indirect support to the classical claims of particle-size reduction and phase transformation. Still, direct experimental validation of the shodhana step itself remains limited. The diversity of methods and media reflects a well-developed traditional pharmaceutical rationale and justifies further experimental evaluation.
Darunaka is one of the most common scalp disorders described in Ayurveda and is characterised by Ruk?hata (dryness), Kandu (itching), Twak sphu?ana (cracking of skin), and Keshacyuti (hair fall in chronic cases). It is primarily caused by the vitiation of Vata and Kapha Dosha and mainly affects the scalp. The condition closely resembles Pityriasis capitis (dandruff) in contemporary medicine and has become increasingly prevalent due to urbanisation, unhealthy dietary habits, improper lifestyle, stress, environmental exposure, and the excessive use of chemical-based hair care products. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the Ayurvedic concept of Darunaka with special emphasis on its etiology, pathogenesis, clinical features, and management. Information was compiled from classical Ayurvedic texts and relevant research articles. The review highlights that Ayurvedic management is based on the principles of Nidana Parivarjana, Shodhana, Shamana, and external therapeutic procedures, along with appropriate diet and lifestyle modifications. These interventions help restore Dosha balance, improve scalp health, relieve symptoms, and reduce recurrence. This review suggests that Ayurveda offers a holistic and effective approach for the management of Darunaka by addressing its root cause rather than providing only symptomatic relief.
Background: Pavazham is an important mineral drug in Siddha medicine, but the scarcity of natural coral and ecological restrictions have encouraged the use of classical substitution methods. Objective: This study documents the literary basis and pharmaceutical preparation of Synthetic Coral, known as Pavazham Vaippu, described in Siddha literature. Materials and Methods: We reviewed classical Siddha references and compiled the preparation procedure described in Agasthiyar Vadha Sowmiyam into a stepwise pharmaceutical protocol. The process included purification of raw materials, powdering, wet grinding with breast milk, bead formation, solar drying, fish-based processing in sesame oil, and final drying. Results: The documented method produced a uniform preparation with progressive organoleptic changes during processing. The procedure reflects a traditional Siddha approach that combines mineral, biological, and thermal methods to produce a substitute for natural coral. Conclusion: Synthetic coral (Pavazham Vaippu) is a classical Siddha substitution strategy that supports conservation of natural resources while preserving traditional pharmaceutical knowledge. This documentation may serve as a basis for future standardization and analytical evaluation.
Background: Neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders are closely associated with oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, and altered monoamine neurotransmission. Monoamine Oxidase-A (MAO-A), a mitochondrial enzyme responsible for the oxidative deamination of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, contributes to neuronal damage when overactivated. Herbal phytocompounds have emerged as promising neuroprotective agents due to their multitarget actions and favourable safety profiles. Aim: To evaluate the neuroprotective potential of Jatamansone from Nardostachys jatamansi through molecular docking interaction with the MAO-A receptor. Materials and Methods: This in silico molecular docking study used the three-dimensional structure of Jatamansone obtained from the PubChem database and the crystal structure of MAO-A retrieved from the Protein Data Bank. Ligand and receptor structures were prepared and converted into PDBQT format. Molecular docking was performed using AutoDock Vina via the Webina platform. Binding affinity, docking conformations, and Root Mean Square Deviation (RMSD) values were analysed to assess interaction stability. Results: Jatamansone exhibited significant binding with the MAO-A receptor. The best docking pose showed a binding affinity of ?8.351 kcal/mol, indicating strong ligand–receptor interaction. RMSD values below 2 Å for major docking poses suggested stable and reliable binding. The interaction profile supports the potential inhibitory activity of Jatamansone against MAO-A. Conclusion: Jatamansone demonstrated promising neuroprotective potential through stable interaction with the MAO-A receptor. These findings provide computational evidence supporting its possible therapeutic role in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders, warranting further experimental validation.
Diabetes mellitus is marked by chronic hyperglycemia due to defective insulin secretion or action. This study evaluated the in vitro glycemic control potential of Jamun Neem Karela Kwath Juice, a novel polyherbal liquid formulation manufactured by Multani Pharmaceuticals Ltd., comprising traditional herbs: Syzygium cumini, Momordica charantia and Azadirachta indica. Glycemic control potential was evaluated through α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition assays, using acarbose as the standard, alongside glucose uptake in differentiated L6 myotubes. Cytotoxicity was assessed via MTT assay, with IC?? values derived from nonlinear regression in GraphPad Prism. Jamun Neem Karela Kwath Juice exhibited dose-dependent enzyme inhibition. It achieved significant α-amylase inhibition (maximum % inhibition: 31.24%) and potent α-glucosidase inhibition (maximum % inhibition: 47.27%). In L6 myotubes, the formulation markedly boosted glucose uptake, peaking at 2% concentration with a 3.48-fold increase over basal levels. MTT assay indicated concentration-dependent cytotoxicity (IC??: 11.93% in L6 cells), confirming viability at lower doses suitable for functional assays. These results demonstrated Multani Jamun Neem Karela Kwath Juice’s insulin-sensitizing properties and potential to promote peripheral glucose uptake, positioning it as a promising therapeutic agent to support healthy blood sugar balance.
A biomarker, which is defined as a change in the components of tissues or bodily fluids, offers a potent way, to comprehend the range of chronic diseases and may be used in at least five different fields, including screening, diagnosis, prognostics, recurrence prediction, and therapy monitoring. Prognostic biomarkers are biological or clinical traits that assist in forecasting a patient's health outcome without therapy. They are used to identify patients who are more likely to have a certain outcome, such as illness recurrence or progression, or death. Numerous biomarkers have been created since Acharya Charaka's time. The use of biomarkers as a prognostic tool is demonstrated in the Indriya Sthana of Charaka Samhita. According to the well-known reference, "Charakasthu Chikisithe”, Acharya Charaka has emphasized the use of a variety of biomarkers as a prognostic tool to prevent physicians from misjudging their patient’s conditions. He explains dismal prognosis based on sputum, stool, and semen test in the Indriya Sthana. If a man's nisthyutam (sputum), purisham (stool), and retah (semen) sink into water, he has reached the end of his life. If the sputum has varied colors and sinks in water, the patient does not survive. This article examines the current information and research on sputum, stool, and semen as prognostic biomarkers.
The present study aimed to formulate and evaluate a mucoadhesive herbal oral gel containing Scutellaria baicalensis extract for the treatment of oral inflammatory conditions. The plant extract, rich in flavonoids such as baicalin and baicalein, exhibits significant anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Herbal gel formulations (F1-F6) were prepared using Carbopol 940 as a gelling agent with varying concentrations to optimise physicochemical and release characteristics. The formulations were evaluated for pH, viscosity, spreadability, drug content, in-vitro diffusion, antimicrobial activity, anti-inflammatory activity, and mucoadhesive strength. Results indicated that all formulations showed acceptable physicochemical properties. Among them, formulation F4 demonstrated an optimal balance of viscosity, spreadability, and sustained drug release. In-vitro diffusion studies revealed controlled drug release following Higuchi kinetics, indicating a diffusion-controlled mechanism. The formulation also exhibited significant antibacterial activity against E. coli and notable anti-inflammatory activity. The developed herbal gel showed promising potential as an effective localised drug delivery system for oral conditions.
Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory skin disorder in which genetic susceptibility and environmental factors interact to influence disease onset, progression, and recurrence. Emerging evidence highlights the significant role of epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and microRNA dysregulation, in regulating inflammatory gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. These reversible modifications contribute to abnormal keratinocyte proliferation and persistent activation of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-17.This narrative review explores the role of epigenetic factors in psoriasis and correlates them with the Ayurvedic concept of Mandala Kushta. Relevant biomedical literature on epigenetic alterations in psoriasis was reviewed, alongside classical Ayurvedic texts describing the etiopathogenesis, Dosha-Dushya involvement, recurrence, and environmental influences associated with Mandala Kushta. Current evidence indicates that epigenetic alterations in psoriasis are dynamic and influenced by environmental triggers including diet, stress, infections, and toxins. Similarly, Ayurveda describes Mandala Kushta as a chronic and recurrent disorder resulting from Dosha-Dushya Sammurchana involving Kapha, Pitta, Rakta, Twak, and Mamsa, precipitated by Nidana Sevana, Agnimandya, and Ama formation. The relapsing nature of the disease and the influence of dietary, behavioural, and psychological factors show notable conceptual parallels with epigenetic regulation. Furthermore, Ayurvedic interventions such as Shodhana and Rasayana therapies may exert immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and metabolic effects that could potentially influence epigenetic pathways. Integrating epigenetic insights with Ayurvedic understanding of Mandala Kushta offers a promising framework for translational research, identification of epigenetic biomarkers, and development of personalized, integrative approaches for psoriasis management.
Introduction: Shankhpushpi is a renowned Ayurvedic herb traditionally used as a Medhya Rasayana to improve memory, intellect, and cognitive function. It is commonly administered as a syrup, particularly in pediatric practice, due to its palatability and ease of administration. However, limited standardaization data are available for prepared herbal syrup formulations. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to evaluate the physicochemical characteristics of Shankhpushpi Syrup. Methods: The prepared sample of Shankhpushpi Syrup was analysed at Cultivator Phyto Lab Private Limited, Jodhpur, following standard procedures described in the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API). Organoleptic evaluation and physicochemical parameters, including specific gravity, pH, reducing sugar, total solids, viscosity, and refractive index, were assessed. Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC) was performed to establish a preliminary phytochemical fingerprint profile. Results: The formulation was observed as a dark brown viscous liquid with characteristic odour and taste. The specific gravity and pH were 1.2054 and 4.49, respectively. Reducing sugar content was 4.18% w/w, while total solids constituted 54.45% of the formulation. Viscosity at 27°C was recorded as 22 mPas, and the refractive index at 25°C was 1.4101. TLC analysis revealed two prominent spots with Rf values of 0.50 and 0.57. Discussion and Conclusion: The obtained physicochemical parameters indicate the characteristic profile of a stable herbal syrup formulation. The acidic pH and high total solid content may contribute to stability and preservation, whereas the TLC fingerprint provides a useful tool for identification and quality control. The study establishes preliminary reference standards that may support future standardization and quality assessment of Shankhpushpi Syrup formulations.
Background: Brahmi Taila, a classical Ayurvedic medicated oil prepared from Bacopa monnieri, is widely employed in the management of neurological and dermatological disorders in pediatric practice. Despite its extensive therapeutic application, systematic physicochemical profiling of commercially prepared Brahmi Taila remains limited. Objective: This study aimed to establish the analytical fingerprint of a marketed Brahmi Taila sample using physicochemical evaluation and thin-layer chromatography. Methods: A 100 mL sample of Brahmi Taila, procured from the market and submitted to Cultivator Phyto Lab Private Limited, Jodhpur, was analyzed following the standard protocols outlined in the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Part II, Volume IV. Parameters assessed included moisture content, saponification value, acid value, iodine value, specific gravity, refractive index, rancidity (Kries test), and thin-layer chromatography profile. Results: The oil exhibited a moisture content below the limit of quantification (LOQ: 0.10% w/w). The saponification value was 205.58, the acid value was 4.73, and the iodine value was 94.45. Specific gravity at 25°C was recorded as 0.9202, refractive index as 1.4711, and the Kries test for rancidity was negative. Thin-layer chromatography revealed eight distinct spots under derivatized conditions at Rf values of 0.13, 0.23, 0.34, 0.49, 0.65, 0.69, 0.77, and 0.98. Conclusion: The tested Brahmi Taila sample demonstrated physicochemical parameters within acceptable pharmacopoeial ranges, suggesting good manufacturing quality. The TLC profile provides a characteristic chromatographic fingerprint that may serve as a reference for assessing identity and purity. These findings contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting the standardization of Ayurvedic formulations.
