On improving the disintegration of ayurvedic pills containing guggulu
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: On improving the disintegration of ayurvedic pills containing guggulu
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Original source:
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Anjana Chaube, S.K. Dixit, P.V. Sharma
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: On improving the disintegration of ayurvedic pills containing guggulu
Year: 1995
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Guggulu, derived from the oleogum resin of Commiphora mukul, holds significant importance in Ayurveda, being widely employed to address numerous ailments in both humans and animals since the Vedic period. Despite its therapeutic value, Ayurvedic pills containing guggulu often face issues with disintegration when consumed, resulting in ineffective treatment as the pills may pass through the gastrointestinal tract without breaking down. This study aims to enhance the disintegration time of guggulu-containing pills through improved pharmaceutical processing techniques.
Enhanced Disintegration Techniques
One of the critical findings of the research is that the method of processing guggulu is vital for achieving optimal disintegration in pills. The study explored various purification methods using different media such as distilled water, cow's milk, and herbal decoctions, followed by manual and machine processing of guggulu pills. It was observed that pills made from solely purified guggulu exhibited poor disintegration, even after lengthy immersion in both acidic and alkaline solutions. Conversely, tablets processed after granulation with additives like sodium bicarbonate and talc significantly improved disintegration times due to reduced cohesive forces between particles and the facilitation of disintegration through increased particle spacing. The optimal composition for enhanced disintegration was identified as a mixture of guggulu powder, talc, and sodium bicarbonate.
Conclusion
The findings indicate that through careful purification, processing, and the inclusion of specific additives, the disintegration time of guggulu-containing pills can be markedly improved, thereby increasing their therapeutic efficacy. The research underscores the importance of selecting appropriate processing techniques and additives tailored to the properties of guggulu. As a result, Ayurvedic practitioners may be able to utilize more effective formulations of guggulu, ultimately enhancing patient care in various treatment applications.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the significance of Guggulu in Ayurvedic medicine?
Guggulu is a crucial Ayurvedic drug known for treating a variety of ailments in humans and animals. It has been used since the Vedic period and is valued for its specific therapeutic properties and rasayana quality.
What challenges were faced with Guggulu pills?
Guggulu pills often do not disintegrate in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to unsatisfactory therapeutic outcomes. They were observed to pass through the body without proper disintegration, necessitating the search for improved preparation methods.
What methods were tested to improve Guggulu pill disintegration?
The study explored various purification liquids for Guggulu, different processing methods, and the inclusion of additives such as talc and sodium bicarbonate to enhance disintegration efficacy of the pills or tablets.
What were the results of the Guggulu disintegration tests?
The tests showed that pills with additives significantly improved disintegration time, achieving complete disintegration within 3 to 4 hours in both acidic and alkaline conditions, ensuring better therapeutic efficacy.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “On improving the disintegration of ayurvedic pills containing guggulu”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Guggulu:
Guggulu is a significant substance in Ayurveda, derived from the oleogum resin of Commiphora mukul. It has a long history of use for its therapeutic properties, known for its effectiveness in treating various diseases. Its examination in the study showcases the importance of optimizing its formulation for better disintegration in the gastrointestinal tract.
2) Gomutra (Gomūtra, Go-mutra):
Gomutra refers to cow's urine, which is traditionally revered in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties. In the study, it serves as one of the purification media for guggulu, enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of the resultant pills. Its use underscores the integration of natural substances in Ayurvedic preparations.
3) Triphala (Triphalā, Tri-phala):
Triphala is an important herbal formulation consisting of three fruits: Terminalia chebula, Terminalia bellirica, and Emblica officinalis. It is often utilized in Ayurvedic practices for its detoxifying and rejuvenating properties. In this research, Triphala is involved in the purification processes and adds significant benefits when combined with guggulu.
4) Drug:
In the context of this study, 'drug' refers to the guggulu-based formulations that are being tested for their disintegration and therapeutic efficacy. Understanding the properties and optimizing the preparation of drugs is paramount in ensuring their effectiveness in treatment, highlighting the pharmaceutical aspect of Ayurvedic medicine.
5) Dugdha:
Dugdha translates to milk in Sanskrit and is used in Ayurvedic formulations for its nourishing and therapeutic qualities. In the study, cow's milk serves as a purification medium that alters the properties of guggulu, demonstrating the significance of traditional ingredients in enhancing the effectiveness of herbal medicines.
6) Pasana (Pāṣāṇa, Pāsāṇa, Pashana):
Dugdha Pasana refers to a talc-like substance in Ayurvedic practice, which can enhance the disintegration of pills. It acts by creating space between particles, facilitating easier breakdown. The inclusion of Dugdha Pasana in guggulu formulations reflects an understanding of how additives can improve pharmaceutical processing.
7) Purification:
Purification is the process of refining substances to remove impurities or enhance properties. The study emphasizes the importance of purifying guggulu resin through various media to optimize its effectiveness in formulating ayurvedic pills. This step is crucial in altering the disintegration characteristics, impacting overall therapeutic value.
8) Triphalaguggulu (Triphalāguggulu, Triphala-guggulu):
Triphala-guggulu represents a formulation that combines the benefits of both guggulu and Triphala. This combination embodies the Ayurvedic approach of synergistic herbal interactions to enhance therapeutic efficacy. The study highlights this formulation's testing, advocating for its potential in improving health outcomes significantly.
9) Simhanada (Siṃhanāda, Simha-nada):
Simhanada is an Ayurvedic formulation that incorporates guggulu among other ingredients. It is commonly used for treating various health conditions. The focus on this particular preparation in the study illustrates the diverse applications of guggulu within traditional medicinal practices and its importance in the Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia.
10) Yogaraja (Yogarāja, Yoga-raja):
Yogaraja, like Simhanada, is another classical guggulu-containing preparation used in Ayurveda. It is recognized for its comprehensive health benefits and therapeutic roles. The study's mention of Yogaraja guggulu underlines guggulu’s versatility and its integral role in forming potent Ayurvedic formulations.
11) Vatari (Vātāri, Vata-ari, Vātavari):
Vatari is a specific Ayurvedic formulation including guggulu that targets conditions related to vata dosha balance. Its examination in the study further establishes the significance of guggulu in Ayurvedic medicine, reflecting the custom of blending various herbs to achieve holistic healing and improved disintegration properties in treatments.
12) Ayurveda (Āyurveda, Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is the ancient system of medicine from India based on balance among body, mind, and spirit. The entire study revolves around Ayurvedic principles in preparing guggulu formulations, emphasizing a holistic approach. The research aims to ensure that Ayurvedic drugs are effective and meet modern pharmaceutical standards.
13) Nirgundi (Nirguṇḍī, Nirgumdi):
Nirgundi refers to the herb Vitex negundo, valued in Ayurveda for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. In the context of the research, it serves as a purification medium, highlighting the holistic use of plant materials to enhance the quality and efficacy of guggulu-based formulations.
14) Science (Scientific):
The mention of 'science' in this Ayurvedic context relates to the systematic approach in researching and optimizing herbal formulations. The blending of traditional knowledge with scientific methodology aims to enhance the effectiveness and reliability of Ayurvedic medicines, akin to modern pharmaceutical standards.
15) Laksha (Lākṣā):
Laksa, often spelled 'Laksha', denotes a resinous substance with potential medicinal uses in Ayurveda. Its presence in guggulu-based formulations emphasizes the integration of various plant-derived materials aimed at enhancing overall health benefits and therapeutic outcomes of Ayurvedic preparations.
16) Vasa (Vāsā, Vāsa, Vasā, Vaśā, Vasha):
Vasa, referring to Adhatoda vasica, is a significant herbal ingredient respected in Ayurveda for respiratory issues. Its application in the study for purifying guggulu emphasizes the utility of combining various herbs to enhance the disintegration and therapeutic values of Ayurvedic pills.
17) Tinospora cordifolia:
Known as Guduchi, Tinospora cordifolia is renowned in Ayurvedic medicine for its immunomodulatory effects. Its presence in various formulations studied highlights the integrative approach of Ayurvedic practices, where multiple herbs work synergistically to enhance the efficiency and health benefits of the primary ingredient, guggulu.
18) Emblica officinalis:
Commonly known as Amla, this fruit is a critical component of Triphala and is celebrated for its high vitamin C content and antioxidant properties. Its incorporation into guggulu formulations exemplifies the Ayurvedic principle of utilizing synergistic herbs to promote overall health and enhance the medicinal qualities of the pill.
19) Terminalia chebula:
Another fruit in the Triphala formulation, Terminalia chebula is known for its diverse health benefits, including digestive aids and antioxidant properties. Its role in the research underscores the traditional combination of herbs designed for a balanced therapeutic effect when paired with guggulu in preparatory forms.
20) Adhatoda vasica:
Adhatoda vasica, recognized for its expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties, plays a valuable role in Ayurveda, especially in respiratory treatments. Its inclusion as a purification medium for guggulu demonstrates the intricate relationships between herbs and their synergistic roles in formulating effective Ayurvedic medicines.
21) Terminalia bellirica:
Terminalia bellirica is one of the three components of Triphala, known for its health benefits, including promoting digestion and detoxification. Its relevance in the study illustrates the importance of multi-herb formulations in Ayurveda, focusing on leveraging combined benefits for improved patient outcomes in therapy.
22) Commiphora mukul:
Commiphora mukul is the botanical source of guggulu resin, which is highly esteemed in Ayurvedic medicine for its wide-ranging health benefits. The study targets the optimal utilization and processing of this particular plant resin, emphasizing its historical and contemporary importance in Ayurvedic formulations.
23) Dolayantra (Dola-yantra, Dolayamtra, Dolāyantra):
The Dola Yantra is a traditional Ayurvedic apparatus used for the pharmaceutical processing of herbal medicines. Its inclusion in the purification method for guggulu illustrates the importance of specific tools in Ayurveda, ensuring the effective extraction of medicinal properties from raw materials while maintaining traditional practices.
24) Rasashastra (Rasa-shastra, Rasaśāstra):
Rasashastra is a branch of Ayurveda that deals with alchemical formulations and the processing of herbal and mineral substances for therapeutic use. The study aligns with Rasashastra principles by meticulously preparing and optimizing guggulu pills, reinforcing the significance of ancient Ayurvedic techniques in modern pharmaceutical applications.
25) Discussion:
Discussion in this context refers to the analytical conversation about the research findings relating to guggulu's disintegration properties. It is essential for interpreting results, considering implications for Ayurvedic practices, and integrating knowledge that can lead to improved medicinal formulations and therapeutic efficacy.
26) Substance:
Substance in this study refers to the active components involved in formulating Ayurvedic pills, primarily focusing on guggulu and its additives. Understanding the interactions of these substances is crucial for optimizing drug formulations, enhancing the therapeutic value and effectiveness of Ayurvedic medicines.
27) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana, Rasāyana, Rāsāyana):
Rasayana denotes rejuvenating treatments in Ayurveda aimed at promoting health and longevity. Guggulu, known for its rasayana qualities, emphasizes the focus of the research on not just disintegration but also the health benefits that these traditional pills can provide when properly prepared and processed.
28) Godugdha:
Godugdha denotes cow's milk in Sanskrit and is traditionally embraced for its additional health benefits in Ayurvedic formulations. In the studied context, it functions as one of the purification media for guggulu, accentuating the role of natural ingredients in enhancing the medicinal properties of ayurvedic pills.
29) Quality:
Quality in this study refers to the efficacy and performance of guggulu-based preparations regarding their disintegration properties. Enhancing the quality of Ayurvedic pills through better formulation approaches is critical for ensuring patient compliance and therapeutic effectiveness, bridging traditional practices with modern pharmaceutical quality standards.
30) Yantra (Yamtra):
Yantra denotes an instrument or apparatus in Ayurvedic practices used for various medicinal preparations. Its mention highlights the importance of traditional tools in achieving accurate pharmaceutical processing and ensuring the effective extraction and purification of beneficial components from raw materials like guggulu.
31) Anjana (Añjana, Anjanā, Añjanā, Āñjana, Amjana, Anjāna):
Anjana traditionally refers to medicinal preparations, particularly eye ointments in Ayurveda. Although focused on guggulu in this study, the term conveys the broader context of Ayurvedic practices, emphasizing the importance of various formulations in addressing health conditions through holistic methods.
32) Vipaka (Vipāka):
Vipaka pertains to the post-digestive effect of food substances in Ayurveda. Understanding the Vipaka of guggulu-based preparations is essential for predicting their metabolic impact in the body. The research highlights the necessity of comprehending complex interactions within herbal formulations for optimal therapeutic outcomes.
33) Sharman (Śarma, Sarmā, Sarma, Sharma, Śarman):
Sharma is likely referring to the last name of one of the researchers or authors involved in the study. The inclusion of authors' names is standard in research, providing attribution and context for the scholarly work done on guggulu and its pharmaceutical processing.
34) Reason:
Reason pertains to the rationale behind improvements in the disintegration of guggulu pills. This discusses the underlying motivations for research on guggulu formulations, underscoring the importance of optimizing herbal medicines for effective treatment outcomes.
35) Virya (Vīrya, Vīryā):
Virya refers to the potency or strength of a substance in Ayurveda. The study discusses the virya of guggulu as it plays a crucial role in its therapeutic properties. Understanding virya helps in evaluating the overall effectiveness of Ayurvedic formulations.
36) Water:
Water, referred to as 'Jala' in Sanskrit, serves a fundamental role in Ayurvedic processes and as a solvent for extraction and purification. It is crucial in the formulations of guggulu, stressing its importance as a medium in enhancing the formulation and bioavailability of herbal preparations.
37) Veda (Vedā):
Vedic pertains to the ancient Indian scriptures that form the foundation of Ayurveda. The mention of Vedic traditions illustrates the historical relevance and continuity of Ayurvedic practices in contemporary medicine, affirming that principles observed in past texts still influence current research in herbal formulations.
38) Rasa (Rasā, Rasha):
Rasa represents the taste and essence of a substance in Ayurveda, conveying its primary therapeutic qualities. Understanding the rasa of guggulu is integral to evaluating its effects on the body and the formulations being developed, reflecting Ayurvedic philosophy in approaching health and treatment.
39) Guna (Guṇa, Gūna):
Guna translates to the inherent qualities or attributes of a substance in Ayurveda. The exploration of guggulu’s guna is essential for understanding its effects and interactions in formulations, facilitating a more profound comprehension of how different herbs contribute to patient health in therapeutic practices.
40) Jala (Jalā, Jālā, Jāla, Jaḷa):
Jala denotes water, a crucial element in Ayurvedic medicine for multiple purposes, including extraction, purification, and formulation. Its inclusion in the study as one of the media used for purifying guggulu highlights the foundational role of water in crafting effective herbal medicines.
41) Milk:
Milk, or Godugdha, is a revered substance in Ayurveda, valued for its nourishing qualities and therapeutic properties. The inclusion of milk in the guggulu purification process underlines its importance in enhancing the effectiveness of herbal preparations and its long-standing role in Ayurvedic practices.
42) Tola (Tōlā):
Dola refers to the apparatus or tool used for the heating and processing of guggulu resin in the purification method. This emphasis on traditional manufacturing techniques is significant for maintaining the quality of Ayurvedic medicines and optimizing their therapeutic properties through classic Ayurvedic practices.