Anti-arthritic Activity of Dashanga Ghana (An Ayurvedic Compound Formulation) Against Freund's Adjuvant Induced Arthritis in Charles Foster Albino Rats.

INTRODUCTION: Arthritis is the most common cause of disability, limiting the activities of adults throughout the world. Apart from the conventional treatment strategies using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, and glucocorticoids, newer and safer drugs are continuously being searched, as long-term usage of these drugs have resulted in adverse effects. Besides this, currently a number of medicinal plants are under scientific evaluation to develop a promising remedy in these cases. There is a need to investigate the complete therapeutic potential of these herbals for providing newer and safer treatment options with minimum side effects. Considering this, a polyherbal Ayurvedic compound formulation (Dashanga Ghana) has been studied in experimental animals to evaluate anti-arthritic activity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Dashanga Ghana has been prepared in the laboratory by following standard guidelines. Charles Foster albino rats were used to evaluate the activity through Freund's adjuvant induced arthritis model. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Dashanga Ghana is found to possess significant anti-arthritic activity. Further studies are required to identify and characterize exact active phyto-constituents and to elucidate the exact mechanism of action, which is responsible for the observed pharmacological profile.

Role of Haratala Shodhana in the therapeutic efficacy of Rasamanikya along with Guduchi Ghana in the treatment of Ekakushtha (psoriasis): A double-blind randomised clinical trial.

Introduction: Rasamanikya (RM) and Guduchi Ghana (GG) are well-known formulations for treating skin disorders in Ayurveda. The drug RM is prepared from Shuddha Haratala (processed orpiment) as a single ingredient. In the present study, RM was prepared from the Haratala, which was Shodhita, with two different media, viz., Kushmanda Swarasa and Churnodaka. In the classics, the preparation of RM is mentioned in the Kushmanda Shodhita Haratala. However, the availability and cost of Kushmanda are the main points of concern in the present era. Shodhana of Haratala by Churnodaka is more cost-effective than Kushmanda Swarasa. Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate the comparative efficacy of RM prepared by Churnodaka Shodhita Haratala (CSHRM) and RM prepared by Kushmanda Shodhita Haratala (KSHRM) with GG in Ekakustha (psoriasis). Materials and methods: The study was a randomized double-blind study involving 76 patients with Ekakushtha that were randomly divided into two groups. Patients registered in group A (n = 37) were treated with CSHRM with GG (125 mg + 375 mg) and group B (n = 36) with KSHRM with GG (125 mg + 375 mg) for 8 weeks. The Wilcoxon signed rank test and paired t-test were applied to evaluate the effect of therapy in the individual group for subjective criteria like the PASI score, Matsyashakalopamam (looks like the scales of a fish), Rukshata (dryness), Aswedanam (anhydrosis), Daha (burning), Strava (discharge), Unnati (raised patches), Kandu (itching), Mahavastu (broad-based), and Vaivarnya (discoloration), while the comparison of results between the groups for the same was done by applying the Coefficient of Variation (CV). Result: CSHRM with GG showed better results in all signs and symptoms except Matsyaskalopamam, Aswedanam, Strava, Mahavastu, Nindra and DLQI in terms of the coefficient of variation. In both groups, statistically highly significant (P > 0.001) improvement was found in the signs and symptoms of Ekakushtha. However, the difference between the groups was statistically nonsignificant. Conclusion: Rasamanikya prepared with both media Shodhita Haratala along with Guduchi Ghana was discovered to be a safe and effective psoriasis treatment.

Unique contributions of Keraleeya Ayurveda in pediatric health care.

Childhood is considered as the most important phase in life, which determines the quality of health, well being, learning and behaviour across the lifespan. This may be the reason for giving the foremost position for Balacikitsa among Ashtangas (8 branches) of Ayurveda. The regional growth of indigenous medicine gave significant contribution for the development of primary health care. Kerala has major contribution of many authentic textbooks of Balacikitsa like Arogyakalpadruma, Vaidya Tarakam etc. These are more practically oriented and it can be considered as a physician's quick reference hand book. Many new diseases which are not mentioned in classical textbooks have found their place in these books. Medications like Praakaara yoga, Uramarunnuprayoga were administered in children as a mode of immunization, which helps in the maintenance of health and prevention of disease. Many diseases like Karappan (balavisarpa), Shakarogas etc. were common in Kerala and various indigenous treatment modalities were developed for such diseases. Single drug Prayogas with herbs like Mayaphal (galls), Tripadi (DesmodiumTriflorum L.), etc. and yogams like Nalikerakwatha (Putapakakalpana), Mukkuti (Takrakalpana) etc. were practiced commonly. Many effective therapies like Shashtikapindasweda, Thalapothichil (Sirolepa) etc. are an inevitable part of Balacikitsa. In this paper, an attempt is made to compile the theoretical concepts and unique practices of Balacikitsa in Kerala and to convey it's importance. The present article also addresses, how these vernacular books and traditional knowledge waned away from the Mainstream Ayurveda.

Process standardization of Swarna Makshika Shodhana (purification) in Triphala Kwatha (decoction).

BACKGROUND: Swarna Makshika (SM) is a brassy golden yellowish mineral with chemical composition of CuFeS2 that is widely used in therapeutics to treat various disease conditions such as Prameha (diabetes), Pandu (anemia), Kushtha (skin diseases) and Jwara (fever). This mineral needs to be processed by the following specified Ayurveda guidelines in order to make it therapeutically safe and more potent. These processes include Shodhana (preliminary process of eliminating unwanted substances), Marana (incineration) and Amritikarana (nectorization) that are mandatory and play a crucial role in therapeutics. However, till date, no published reports are available on standard manufacturing procedure of SM Shodhana. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to develop the standard manufacturing procedure of SM Shodhana. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Methods described in Rasaratna Samuchhaya were followed to perform Shodhana process. Shodhana of SM was carried out in three batches (600 g in each batch) by seven quenching in Triphala Kwatha (TK, decoction of Terminalia chebula Retz., Terminalia bellirica Roxb. and Phyllanthus emblica Linn.) maintaining batch manufacturing records. Organoleptic and physicochemical analysis of media, i.e., TK and SM was carried out. RESULTS: After Shodhana, golden yellowish luster of SM was completely lost and it turned into dark black coarse powder. The hardness went on decreasing and brittleness went on increasing. Average 532 g of Shodhita SM (88.67%) from 600 g of SM was obtained. Average time required for achieving red hot stage was 24.81 min. Analysis of the media revealed an increase in pH, specific gravity, and total solid contents. CONCLUSION: The adopted method for Shodhana of 600 g of SM can be considered as easy, convenient and standard.

Pharmacognostical evaluation of Psoralea corylifolia Linn. seed.

Psoralea corylifolia Linn. belonging to Fabaceae family is an important endangered plant that has been therapeutically used to treat different pathological manifestations since ages. It is commonly known as Bakuchi in Sanskrit. Though it is an important plant, till date, no pharmacognostical reports have been available on its seed. A lot of adulterations are also present in the market. The present study is aimed towards evaluating pharmacognostical and histochemical characteristics of the seeds of P.corylifolia Linn. in detail. Macroscopic and microscopic pharmacognostical characters of seeds and histochemical studies were noted by following standard methods. Pharmacognostical evaluation of seed shows the presence of volatile oil, silica deposits and stone cells. The observations found in current work can be considered as reference standards in future studies.

Physicochemical Screening and Shelf Life Evaluation of Kunkumadi Ghrta Prepared using Kesara and Nagakesara.

INTRODUCTION: Kunkumadi Ghrta (KG) is an Ayurvedic formulation commonly recommended in skin disorders, especially Mukhadusika (Acne vulgaris). Kesara (stigma of Crocus sativus Linn.) is a prime ingredient in the formulation. However, due to high cost and increased adulteration in Kesara, 'Nagakesara' (Mesua ferrea Linn.) is suggested by Ayurvedic experts as a substitute. Nagakesara is relatively lower in cost and possesses similar therapeutic attributes to that of Kesara. Recent studies have established standard manufacturing procedures and clinical efficacies of Kesarayukta (with Kesara) Kunkumadi Ghrta (KKG) and Nagakesara yukta (with Nagakesara) Kunkumadi Ghrta (NKG) in Mukhadusika. In spite of wide utility of KG in Ayurvedic practice, no published work on its shelf life is available so far. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To establish the physicochemical profile and evaluate the shelf life of KKG and NKG. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Total three batches of KKG and NKG each were prepared in the laboratory by adopting Ayurvedic classical guidelines and the findings were systematically recorded. Comparative differences in organoleptic characters (colour, odour, taste, touch) and values of different physicochemical parameters (Ash value, pH value, Total solid content, Specific gravity, Refractive index, Loss on drying, Acid value, Iodine value, Saponification value, Peroxide value and Rancidity tests) of raw materials [herbal ingredients, Go Ghrta, Murcchita Ghrta (MG)] as well as finished products (KKG and NKG) were recorded. Long term (real time) shelf life testing was carried out at the intervals i.e., at 0, 3, 6, 9 and 16 months. High performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) analysis of samples was also carried out. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The average percentage loss in final product was 10.18% in KKG and 7.58% in NKG. The shelf life of MG, KKG and NKG is 16 months. After 16 months, Go Ghrta showed negative rancidity test, while MG, KKG and NKG showed positive rancidity, indicative of onset of deterioration after 16 months. Present findings validate the Ayurvedic principles stipulating medicated Ghrta to have a shelf life of 16 months. Chromatographic study showed few differences between KKG and NKG samples. Data obtained by present study may be considered as standard for future researches.

Analytical profile of Kukkutanda Tvak Bhasma (incinerated hen egg shells) prepared by two different methods.

BACKGROUND: KukkutandaTvakBhasma (KTB) (incinerated hen egg shells) is one of the important calcium-rich medicines used to treat leukorrhea, urinary tract infections, etc. Ancient scholars suggested that KTB prepared with processed Hingula (cinnabar) is more potent than Bhasma prepared without Hingula. Hence, in the present study, an attempt has been made to prepare incinerated hen egg shells using two different methods with and without cinnabar and their analytical profiles have been developed. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To develop analytical profile of KTB prepared by two different methods. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Two samples of KTB were prepared. Sample KTB-A was prepared by KumariSwarasa (juice of Aloevera Tourn. Linn.) and sample KTB-B was prepared in the presence of Hingula as a medium for Marana using electric muffle furnace. The final product of both the samples of Bhasma were analyzed by organoleptic characteristics, physicochemical parameters and advanced sophisticated instrumental technologies such as particle size detection, inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy, Fourier transfer infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy. OBSERVATIONS AND RESULTS: 22.75% and 41.16% of Calcium was detected in samples KTB-A and KTB-B, respectively. 0.29% and 0.15% of magnesium was found in samples KTB-A and KTB-B respectively. Both the samples of Bhasma were found to contain calcium hydroxide Ca(OH)2. CONCLUSIONS: Minimum four Puta (incineration cycles) with average 800°C temperature is required to prepare KTB through electric muffle furnace using KumariSwarasa and processed Hingula as a medium. An average particle size was found as 9.35 µm and 9.97 µm in samples KTB-A and KTB-B, respectively. XRD study reveals that raw KukkutandaTvak is CaCO3 (calcite) and CaCO3 (calcium carbonate) whereas both the Bhasma contain CaH2O2 (portlandite syn) and Ca(OH)2.

Critical Review of Rasaratna Samuccaya: A Comprehensive Treatise of Indian Alchemy.

Rasaratna Samuccaya (RRS) a 13th century C.E. alchemical treatise, authored by Vagbhata, is a useful compilation related to preparation and properties of drugs of mineral and metallic origin. This text throws light on the state of Indian expertise in the field of alchemy regarding the extraction, purification, conversion of metals/minerals into therapeutically suitable forms, various instruments developed for alchemical purposes and treatment of numerous diseases by using herbo-mineral preparations. The present work is an attempt to summarize the key features of RRS to highlight its utility and contribution in the development of Indian alchemy. To study and summarize the important, comprehensive and specific points mentioned in RRS and to elaborate the contribution of RRS in the field of Indian alchemy. A critical review of RRS from Suratnojjvala Hindi commentary by Ambikadatta Shastri was done and the collected information was compared with other available literature of Rasasastra. Research of modern science was also utilized to explore some facts mentioned by Vagbhata. RRS is a precise treatise among available ancient literature. It comprises of all eight branches of Ayurveda, although it mainly deals with therapeutic aspects of Rasasastra and emphasizes the use of metals and minerals in treating nearly 68 types of ailments. It contains 30 chapters, 3871 verses and detailed description of 960 formulations. Classification of metals and minerals; description of some new instruments, formulations and averting use of metals and minerals in pregnancy are the key features of RRS.

Shelf-life evaluation of Kamsaharitaki avaleha and its granules: A preliminary study.

BACKGROUND: Saviryata-avadhi (shelf life) of different Ayurvedic dosage forms is described in Sarngadharasamhita. Though the concepts have a strong background, we seek to re-evaluate the age old concepts by following current norms. An attempt has been made in the present study to evaluate shelf-life of Kamsaharitaki avaleha and its granules. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Raw materials were procured from Pharmacy, Gujarat Ayurved University, Jamnagar and utilized after proper authentication in pharmacognosy lab. The avaleha and its granules were prepared in the departmental laboratory following classical guidelines and subjected to accelerated stability studies. RESULTS: Both the products were found to be free from microbial contamination. Heavy metals were within the prescribed limit. Changes in physico-chemical profiles at different intervals are insignificant. On extrapolation of the observations, the shelf life of avaleha was found to be18 months and 27 months to the granules. CONCLUSION: Stability of granules was found to be comparatively higher than the avaleha. This observation may be exclusive to Kamsaharitaki avaleha. Studies on other avalehas and their granules need to be carried out to confirm this preliminary observation.

Anti-diabetic formulations of Naga bhasma (lead calx): A brief review.

INTRODUCTION: Ayurvedic formulations usually contain ingredients of herbal, mineral, metal or animal in origin. Naga bhasma (lead calx) is a potent metallic formulation mainly indicated in the treatment of Prameha (~diabetes). Until date, no published information is available in compiled form on the formulations containing Naga bhasma as an ingredient, their dose and indications. Therefore, in the present study, an attempt has been made to compile various formulations of Naga bhasma indicated in treating Prameha. AIM: The present work aims to collect information on various formulations of Naga bhasma mainly indicated in treating Prameha and to elaborate the safety and efficacy of Naga bhasma as a Pramehaghna (antidiabetic) drug. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Critical review of formulations of Naga bhasma is compiled from various Ayurvedic texts and the therapeutic efficacy of Naga bhasma is discussed on the basis of available data. RESULT AND CONCLUSION: Antidiabetic formulations of Naga bhasma were discovered around 12(th) century CE. There are 44 formulations of Naga bhasma mainly indicated for Prameha. Haridra (Curcuma longa Linn), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Guduci (Tinospora cordifolia) and Madhu (honey) enhance the antidiabetic action of Naga bhasma and also help to prevent diabetic complications as well as any untoward effects of Naga bhasma. On the basis of the reviewed research, it is concluded that Naga bhasma possesses significant antidiabetic property.

Acute and Subchronic Toxicity Study of Tamra Bhasma (Incinerated Copper) prepared from Ashodhita (Unpurified) and Shodhita (Purified) Tamra in Rats.

The use of metals in traditional medicines is very often seen as matter of concern these days, especially the Bhasma preparations which are always under stringent observations for containing highly reactive inorganic elements such as lead, mercury, arsenic and others. One of the Bhasma extensively used in routine Ayurvedic practice is Tamra (copper) bhasma. If it is not prepared properly or Shodhana procedure is not done properly, it acts as a poison. To indicate its toxic potential, Ashtamahadoshas (eight major ill effects) have been quoted in classics and due emphasis have been given to its Shodhana procedure. In the present study, Tamra bhasma prepared from Shodhita and Ashodhita Tamra was subjected to oral toxicity study to ascertain the role of Shodhana process on safety profile of Tamra bhasma on subchronic administration to albino rats. Both the samples were administered to rats for 45 consecutive days at the doses of 5.5, 27.5, and 55 mg/kg. Animals were sacrificed on 46(th) day and parameters like hematological, serum biochemical, and histopathology of various organs were studied. Results showed that Tamra bhasma prepared from Ashodhita Tamra has pathological implications on different hematological, serum biochemical and cytoarchitecture of different organs even at therapeutic dose level (5.5 mg/kg). Whereas, Tamra bhasma prepared from Shodhita Tamra is safe even at five-fold to therapeutic equivalent doses (27.5 mg/kg). These observations emphasize the role of Shodhana and importance of dose in expression of toxicity of the medicinal preparations.

Ayurvedic management of adverse drug reactions with Shvitrahara Varti.

Adverse drug reactions (ADR) are an expression that describes harm associated with the use of medications at therapeutic dose. Traditional medicines also can develop ADRs due to their improper use. Shvitrahara Varti, one of such medicines holds Bakuchi as a component and is to be used judiciously. Furanocoumarins like psoralen present in Bakuchi makes skin hypersensitive and causes phytophotodermatitis in few cases. Hence, one should be careful while using medicines that contain Bakuchi. One such case is observed, where extensive reactions with application of Shvitrahara Varti were noticed and managed with Ayurvedic treatment.

Pharmaceutical standardization of Jala Shukti Bhasma and Mukta Shukti Bhasma.

Shukti is an important component of Sudha Varga, which is considered as the latest class in the field of Rasa Shastra. Two types of Shukti have been mentioned in Rasa Shastra texts i.e. Jala Shukti and Mukta Shukti according to the availability. In present study, an attempt has been made to develop a standard manufacturing procedure (SMP) of Jala Shukti Bhasma and Mukta Shukti Bhasma. Five batches of Jala Shukti Bhasma and Mukta Shukti Bhasma were prepared and standardization was attempted by maintaining batch manufacturing records of individual batches. During pharmaceutical procedures like Shodhana, Bhavana, Marana, etc. due care of temperature, its duration, percentage of weight gain or loss and the cost factor of the end product, etc. were considered. The average weight loss observed was 12.08 g i.e. 2.42% and 14.62 g i.e. 2.92% during Jala Shukti and Mukta Shukiti Shodhana respectively. Average weight loss found was 38.94 g i.e. 7.79% in Jala Shukti Bhasma while in Mukta Shukti Bhasma, it was 35.24 g i.e. 7.05%. At the end of the pharmaceutical procedure, it was found that Mukta Shukti Bhasma is 2.8 times costlier than Jala Shukti Bhasma.

Immunomodulatory activity of Amalaki Rasayana: An experimental evaluation.

BACKGROUND: Ayurvedic system of medicine holds a number of drugs that improves the immunity. Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) is one such drug. Researches with crude extracts of Amalaki have proven the antioxidant and immunomodulatory activities. But, works on Amalaki Rasayana are not found reported. AIMS: Considering this, two samples of Amalaki Rasayana (AR7 and AR21) were studied to evaluate comparative immunomodulatory activity against the cyclophosphamide immunosuppression in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Test drugs were prepared by following classical guidelines. Wistar strain albino rats of either sex were used in the study. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: For comparison of data from cyclophosphamide control group with remaining cyclophosphamide plus test drug administered groups one way ANOVA with Dunnett's multiple t-test (DMTT) was employed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Amalaki Rasayana possesses significant immunostimulant activity and moderate cytoprotective activity. AR21 was found to have better activity profile in terms of both immunostimulant as well as cytoprotective activity.

Pharmacognostical and physicochemical analysis of Tamarindus indica Linn. stem.

Tamarindus indica Linn. fruits (Chincha) are extensively used in culinary preparations in Indian civilization. Its vast medicinal uses are documented in Ayurvedic classics and it can be used singly or as a component of various formulations. Besides fruit, the Kasta (wood) of T. indica L. is also important and used to prepare Kshara (alkaline extract) an Ayurvedic dosage form. Pharmacognostical and physicochemical details of Chincha Kasta are not available in authentic literature including API (Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India). The study is an attempt in this direction. T. indica L. stem with heartwood was selected and morphological, microscopic and physicochemical standardization characters along with TLC finger print, and fluorescence analysis were documented. Transverse section of stem showed important characters such as phelloderm, stone cells layer, fiber groups, calcium oxalate, crystal fibers, and tylosis in heartwood region. Four characteristic spots were observed under UV long wave, in thin layer chromatography with the solvent combination of toluene: ethyl acetate (8:2). The study can help correct identification and standardization of this plant material.

Critical review on the pharmaceutical vistas of Lauha Kalpas (Iron formulations).

Iron is one among the major metals present in the earth's crust and is essential for sound sustenance of human body. Its deficiency leads to various health ailments. Contemporary medicine advises iron supplements in iron deficiency anemia. Ayurvedic classics also quote significant information about administration of iron. Lauha Kalpas are the unique compound herbo-mineral formulations where iron (Lauha) is used as a major ingredient. Relevant literature (Bhaishajya Ratnavali, Charaka Samhita, Rasendra Sara Samgraha etc.) reviewed to gather information about Lauha Kalpas. Critical analysis of these Lauha Kalpas reveals that ancient seers administered iron in a better acceptable form. Unlike popular understanding these are not only Khalviya preparations; but Churna (powders), Avaleha (confectionaries), Rasakriya (solidified decoctions), and Putapaka (incinerated) form of preparations are also found. Apart from solid dosage forms, semisolid dosage forms mentioned in classics are very much useful. Unfortunately most of the formulations are not found in the market. Hence Pharmaceutical firms may bring these unique dosage forms in to the market to supply the healthcare needs of the community. It is interesting that iron preparations are used in Ayurveda in different medical conditions apart from anemia (Pandu). This leaves a scope for further researches on different dosage forms of iron and their indications.

Preparation of dhatryarishta by dhatri swarasa and dhatri kwatha.

Dhatryarishta has been described for the first time in Charaka Samhita, in the context of Panduroga. The same reference is available in Chakradatta, Bhaishajya Ratnavali, and Sahastrayogam too. Generally Dhatri Swarasa [Amalaki (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.)] is used in the preparation of Dhatryarishta as per classical reference, but fresh Amalaki is not available in every season, so in the present study, Amalaki Kwatha (decoction) is used instead of Swarasa. A total of 13 batches of Dhatryarishta were prepared, out of which nine batches were prepared with Dhatri Swarasa and four batches with Dhatri Kwatha. For Dhatryarishta prepared by using Dhatri Swarasa, three methods were applied and in Dhatryarishta prepared by using Dhatri Kwatha two methods were applied. The study revealed that Dhatryarishta could only be prepared by using Amalaki Swarasa as quoted in the classics and not by using Amalaki Kwatha.

Therapeutic potentials of metals in ancient India: A review through Charaka Samhita.

The Ayurvedic system of medicine has stood the test of time for four millennia or more. The ancient seers found that drugs of different origin (herbal, metal or animal) in addition to codes of conduct and dietary regulations are suitable tools to maintain health in healthy and eradicating diseases in diseased. Use of metallic preparations in healthcare is a unique feature in this system. Processed metals including Mercury, Gold, Silver, Lead, Zinc, Copper etc. were used very frequently by seers of the Indian tradition in different disease conditions with great authority. It is generally claimed, that these metals are detoxified during the highly complex manufacturing processes described in Ayurvedic, especially Rasashastra texts. Charaka Samhita, one of the scheduled books of Ayurveda also holds ample of references regarding the use of metals for different purposes, which are summarized in the current paper.

Standard manufacturing process of Makaradhwaja prepared by Swarna Patra - Varkha and Bhasma.

Makaradhwaja is an important Kupipakwa Rasayana. It is prepared by using Swarna (gold), Parada (mercury) and Gandhaka (sulfur) in different ratios, i.e. 1:8:16, 1:8:24 and 1:2:4, respectively. The amount of Gandhaka in the Jarana process is directly proportional to the increase in therapeutic efficacy and reduces the toxicity of the product. Specific temperature pattern for the preparation of Makaradhwaja has been followed. In the present study Swarna, Parada and Gandhaka were taken in the ratio 1:8:24, respectively, and 12 h of heating for a specified amount of Kajjali (i.e., 400 g) in a Kacha Kupi 1/3(rd) of its capacity. There are some controversies regarding the form of Swarna (i.e., Swarna Patra Swarna Varkha or Swarna Bhasma) used in the preparation of Makaradhwaja. Therefore, in the present study, the samples of Makaradhwaja were prepared by Swarna Patra, Varkha and Bhasma in different batches. It was found that the use of Varkha produced a good-quality product along with the maximum amount of gold, i.e. 268 ppm, in comparison with Patra, i.e. 131 ppm, and Bhasma, i.e. 19 ppm, respectively.

Sedative hypnotic activity of manahshila (realgar) -an experimental evaluation.

Manahshila (Realgar) is one of the three major Arsenicals used in Ayurvedic therapeutics since ages. It is indicated in skin, respiratory, ophthalmic and psychological disorders. It is mentioned to be the best among Rasayanas and a good aphrodisiac. As Manahshila is indicated in Unmada (Psychological disorder); wide use of Manahshila in the formulations mentioned for psychological disorders; some of those formulations are used in treatment of sleeplessness and Ardraka (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) which is a commonly used Shodhana reagent of Manahshila is reported to be sedative, the potential sedative hypnotic activity is inferred and an experimental study was carried out to evaluate the sedative hypnotic activity of Manahshila. Effect of Ardraka Shodhita Manahshila (ASM) on the spontaneous motor activity of albino rats in actophotometer and on diazepam induced sleeping time was evaluated. There was a statistically significant reduction in the spontaneous motor activity (P<0.001) in the ASM treated Manahshila and there was early onset and hypnotic potentiation in the diazepam induced sleep in rats (P<0.01).