Quality evaluation and standardization of Adraka Khanda: An Ayurvedic formulation

Ayurveda, the antique therapeutic system of India promotes a combination of lifestyle management (which includes diet, exercise and medication) and treatment with specific herbs and minerals to cure various diseases. The effect of Ayurvedic drugs are purely based on surveillance and seem subjective without valid scientific backing. Global resurgence of Ayurveda needs its scientific validation both in terms of efficacy and safety [1]. Standardized drug manufacturing is the primary and basic step in this regard. Reliable quality control protocols for Ayurvedic formulations using modern techniques of analysis are extremely important [2]. Present scenario has changed now as compared to the ancient time. Presently the medicines of Ayurvedic system of medicine are being manufactured on the huge level in Pharmaceutical companies, where manufacturers come across many problems such as qualitative and authentic raw drugs, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), availability of standards as well as proper protocol for standardization of both medicinal plants and developed formulations [3]. There are many therapeutic forms of drugs described in classical texts, like Asava, Arishta, Ghruta, Taila, Churna, Vati, Gutika, Kwatha and much more [4]. In ancient time Ayurvedic medicines were prepared by physician itself according to the roga-rogi prakriti. Now a day it is manufactured in pharmacies. Therefore, it is very important to standardize the formulation not only on modern ground but also on ancient ayurvedic aspect methodologies of formulation [3]. Sneha siddha [Ghrita (clarified butter) or oil based preparation] have better pharmacokinetic properties (absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion) in comparison to other dosage forms because of the lipophilicity of the cell membrane, as it readily permeate lipid soluble substances into the cells [6]. Standardization is a necessary issue for polyherbal preparations in order to evaluate the quality of the drugs based on the quantification of their active principles. India, as place of origin of the traditional system of health care may play a leading role in the making of standardized, therapeutically effective Ayurvedic formulations. WHO support, advocate and encourage different traditional medical system as a part of national health policies due to easy availability, low cost, safety and faith of people in them [1]. The World Health Assembly in its different resolutions highlighted the requirement of the quality natural products by using modern control techniques and applying suitable standards [7].