Standardisation of eladichoornam
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Standardisation of eladichoornam
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.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
A. Thankamma, L.G. Radhika, C. Soudamini
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Standardisation of eladichoornam
Year: 1998
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The paper discusses the standardization of Eladhi Choornam, a traditional Ayurvedic preparation composed of seven ingredients, primarily used for treating throat diseases, chardi, anorexia, and related ailments. The primary components of this formulation include Nagakesara (Mesua ferrea), Maricha (Piper nigrum), Twak (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), Ela (Elettaria cardamomum), Sunti (Zingiber officinale), and Pippali (Piper longum), along with sugar. The study aims to chemically standardize and identify the individual components using chromatographic techniques, specifically Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC), and to confirm the presence of each ingredient within the finished product.
Detection of Ingredients Using Chromatographic Techniques
One key concept highlighted in the paper is the effective use of Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) for detecting individual ingredients in the Eladhi Choornam. The authors utilized various solvent systems tailored for each ingredient to produce characteristic Rf values, which serve as identification markers. For instance, to differentiate between Piper nigrum and Piper longum, specific solvent systems were developed that showcased the unique Rf values of piperine, a common component in both. The successful identification of each ingredient's corresponding Rf values in both the extract and the finished product confirms its presence and allows for the establishment of reliable standards for this Ayurvedic formulation.
Conclusion
The research findings emphasize the feasibility of using TLC as a reliable method for the standardization of complex Ayurvedic formulations such as Eladhi Choornam. The developed parameters provide a framework for establishing dependable standards that ensure the quality and efficacy of the preparation. The study not only acknowledges the contributions of researchers in the field but also underscores the need for rigorous standardization practices in herbal medicine, paving the way for further research and validation of traditional medicines within contemporary scientific frameworks.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Eladhi Choornam and its ingredients?
Eladhi Choornam is an Ayurvedic compound preparation used for throat diseases and includes six main ingredients: Nagakesara, Maricha, Twak, Ela, Sunti, and Pippali, along with sugar.
How was Eladhi Choornam standardized in the study?
The standardization was achieved using chromatographic techniques to identify specific Rf values for each ingredient. Solvent systems were developed to confirm the presence of individual constituents in the final product.
What role does thin-layer chromatography play in this research?
Thin-layer chromatography helps detect ingredients by generating characteristic Rf values. Identical Rf values in single drugs and the finished product confirm the presence of specific substances.
What were the findings regarding the key ingredient detection?
The study identified several unique spots for each ingredient, confirming their presence in Eladhi Choornam while ensuring accuracy by showing the absence of these spots in formulations lacking specific ingredients.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Standardisation of eladichoornam”. 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) Drug:
In the context of Ayurveda, a 'drug' refers to any substance used for medicinal purposes that can influence bodily functions and alleviate symptoms. Eladhi Choornam, the focus of the study, is a compound formulation that contains multiple drugs, each contributing to its therapeutic effects against conditions such as throat diseases and appetite loss.
2) Piper longum:
Piper longum, commonly known as Long Pepper, is one of the ingredients used in Eladhi Choornam. Its active compound, piperine, is significant for its medicinal properties, including antipyretic and digestive benefits. The standardization study highlights its identification through unique Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) signatures in the preparation.
3) Ayurveda (Āyurveda, Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine that emphasizes balance in bodily systems through diet, herbal treatment, and yogic practices. This ancient science utilizes a holistic approach to well-being, and the preparation of Eladhi Choornam exemplifies Ayurvedic principles in formulating remedies from natural ingredients to treat various ailments.
4) Nagakesara (Nagakeshara, Nāgakeśara, Nāgakesara, Naga-kesara):
Nagakesara, also known as Mesua ferrea, is an herb whose flowers are a part of Eladhi Choornam. Revered for its medicinal properties, it is believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. The standardization study confirms its presence in the formulation, ensuring the consistency and potency of the herbal preparation.
5) Mesua ferrea:
Mesua ferrea is the botanical name for Nagakesara, an important component of Eladhi Choornam. Its relevance lies in its use in Ayurvedic medicine for treating various ailments due to its beneficial compounds. Proper identification and standardization of this ingredient ensure efficacy and quality in medicinal formulations.
6) Pippali (Pippalī, Pīppalī, Pippalin):
Pippali, or Piper longum, is renowned in Ayurveda for its role in enhancing digestion and respiratory health. As part of Eladhi Choornam, it contributes to the mixture's effectiveness against throat-related ailments. The chromatographic analysis helps confirm its identification, underscoring its significance in the combination for therapeutic purposes.
7) Cukku:
Chukku refers to Zingiber officinale, or dried ginger, which is included in Eladhi Choornam. It is prized in Ayurveda for its warming properties and its ability to relieve digestive troubles and nausea. The study highlights the importance of identifying each ingredient to ensure the formulation's medicinal integrity.
8) Taila (Tailā):
Taila, meaning oil in Sanskrit, represents a broader category within Ayurvedic medicines, typically for topical applications. Although not directly linked to Eladhi Choornam, taila formulations such as Vacalasunadi Taila share a common goal of enhancing health through natural ingredients. This emphasizes Ayurvedic principles of nourishment and healing.
9) Eladi (Ela-adi, Elādi):
Eladi is a specific nomenclature of a medicinal preparation that includes a combination of various ingredients. In the context of Eladhi Choornam, it refers to the unique formulation that targets specific health issues like chardi and anorexia. The study emphasizes its standardization, ensuring that the beneficial properties are consistently delivered.
10) Sugar:
Sugar is included in Eladhi Choornam not only for its flavor but also for its role in enhancing the bioavailability of the medicinal properties of the other herbs present. In Ayurveda, sweet taste is generally considered favorable, contributing to balance and enhancing the overall therapeutic efficacy of herbal formulations.
11) Cinnamomum zeylanicum:
Cinnamomum zeylanicum, or true cinnamon, is another component of Eladhi Choornam valued for its aromatic and medicinal qualities. Known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits, its presence in the formulation aids digestion and helps in managing throat diseases. Standardizing the product ensures that its therapeutic effects remain intact.
12) Zingiber officinale:
Zingiber officinale, or ginger, is included in Eladhi Choornam for its digestive and anti-nausea properties. Its role as an ingredient illustrates the Ayurvedic emphasis on using well-known herbs for their health benefits. Accurate identification through mass chromatographic techniques ensures the quality of the preparation and its therapeutic reliability.
13) Discussion:
The 'Discussion' section of the paper focuses on analyzing the results from chromatographic studies to confirm the identities of the ingredients in Eladhi Choornam. This reflects the importance of thorough investigation in drug formulation to guarantee consistency, reliability, and therapeutic effectiveness, critical for ensuring user safety and satisfaction.
14) Medicine:
In this context, 'medicine' pertains to the field of health care that deals with the study, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases. The study of Eladhi Choornam highlights the intersection between traditional practices and modern scientific techniques, showcasing efforts to establish standards that enhance the safety and efficacy of Ayurvedic medicines.
15) Science (Scientific):
Science encompasses systematic knowledge that can be ascertained through experimentation and observation. The research presented in this paper employs scientific methodologies, such as Thin Layer Chromatography, to validate the presence of each ingredient in Eladhi Choornam. This integration of modern scientific approaches into traditional medicine aids in ensuring quality and effectiveness.
16) Chardi:
Chardi, which translates to vomiting or nausea, is one of the conditions that Eladhi Choornam aims to address. Its inclusion in the abstract highlights the formulation's therapeutic intent. The study's emphasis on standardization aims to ensure that Eladhi Choornam can consistently alleviate symptoms associated with chardi.
17) Water:
Water is not only a vital substance for life but also plays a significant role in the herbal preparation process. In the context of the study, water content may affect the extractive properties of the herbs, thereby influencing the overall quality and efficacy of Eladhi Choornam. It's crucial to quantify water levels to ensure consistent formulations.