ABSTRACT
Marketing of Guggulu, an exudate obtained from the plant Commiphora mukul and its preparations is a great concern of different ayurvedic pharmaceutical houses due to its adulteration, substitution and non-availability of genuine samples. Standardization of raw drugs and formulations with modern analytical tools increase their scope, acceptance and scientific validity. In the present study, an attempt was made for the physicochemical analysis of Kanchanara guggulu tablets (having Guggulu as the major ingredient) prepared as per references in Sharangadhara Samhita and Bhaishajya Ratnavali to develop an analytical profile of the formulation. The study was based on the standard analytical parameters proposed by API and PLIM. Six samples of tablets were prepared as per two references (three for each reference) which were available in market following the same manufacturing procedures. The study comprised of three stages- pharmacognosy of raw drugs, pharmaceutical work and analytical study. The analysis was done using the parameters like organoleptic evaluation, weight variation, hardness, friability, disintegration time, ash values, extractive values, loss on drying, pH, HPTLC and microbial contamination and an analytical profile was developed as per both references.
ABSTRACT
Mineral drugs play an important role in Ayurvedic therapeutics. Makshika, Copper pyrite is considered as Maharasa in Rasasastra. It is described as one among best Rasayanas in classical literatures. This study is an attempt to standardize the process of preparation of Swarna Makshika bhasma. The process commences with selection of raw material, which is the prime and crucial step ahead. Ayurveda Pharmacopoeia of India standards and classical methods were used for the same. Swarna Makshika bhasma was prepared as per the reference from Ayurveda Prakasha (Shodhana) and Rasaratna Samucchayam (Marana). Shodhana (purification) was done by open heating in an iron pan by adding Saindhava (rock salt) and lemon juice. Five Varaha puta with 6000C quantum of heat was opted for Marana. The process was performed using an Electric Muffle furnace. During each step classical methods for analyzing the product (Bhasma) was done which ensured the proper Bhasmeekarana. Swarna Makshika bhasma was then subjected to X-ray Diffraction study which reveals the presence of both haematite (58%) and magnetite (40%) in it and the structural representation of them in Bhasma was also noted. XRF study conducted found that the Bhasma posses 75.54% Iron and rest of the elements within its permissible limits which ultimately unwrap its safety. Scanning Electron Microscope study gave the particle size of Bhasma to be 2microns (50000 X magnification. The particle size recorded can be considered as the desired specification of the final Bhasma.