Microbiological quality assesment of shatavari churna
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Microbiological quality assesment of shatavari churna
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Shatavari churna, derived from the roots of Asparagus racemosus Will, is an important herbal preparation used for its numerous health benefits, particularly for the female reproductive system and general wellness. This conventional herbal medicine is widely consumed by pregnant and lactating women to support breast milk production and enhance immunity in children. However, ensuring the microbiological quality of herbal preparations is crucial to maintain their safety and efficacy, especially given the rise of microbial contamination in these products. This study evaluates the microbiological quality of Shatavari churna, focusing on its safety, efficacy, and long-term storage through microbial testing.
Importance of Microbial Testing
The microbiological quality assessment is essential for ensuring the safety and efficacy of herbal drugs. The World Health Organization (WHO) has established specific limits for microbial contamination in herbal products. This includes maximum allowable limits for yeasts and molds, E. coli, and other enterobacteria. Microbial contamination poses significant risks, including potential pathogens like Salmonella and various molds, emphasizing the need for strict testing protocols. This study adheres to these guidelines by performing necessary microbial limit tests to determine the safety of Shatavari churna formulations.
Microbial Contamination in Herbal Formulations
Microbial contamination often arises from inadequate processing, storage conditions, or formulation practices. This study highlights the impact of microbial growth on the quality of Shatavari churna preparations. The research evaluated two marketed formulations and two in-house prepared formulations—one with preservatives and one without. The presence of bacteria and fungi in the unpreserved formulations indicates a significant quality concern, which could jeopardize consumer safety and product efficacy. The results underscore the critical need for manufacturers to account for microbial stability in ayurvedic preparations.
Effectiveness of Preservatives
The study also examined the effectiveness of preservatives, specifically methyl paraben and propyl paraben, in prolonging the microbial shelf-life of herbal products. The testing results demonstrated that the formulation with preservatives had no microbial contamination, while those without showed significant bacterial and fungal growth. This finding speaks to the importance of adopting proper preservatives in the formulation of herbal medicines to ensure that they remain safe for consumption over time without compromising their therapeutic properties.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the microbiological assessment of Shatavari churna reveals that both marketed and in-house formulations not supplemented with preservatives exhibit significant microbial growth, raising serious safety and efficacy concerns. The study emphasizes the necessity of incorporating preservatives to mitigate microbial contamination, thereby preserving the quality throughout the product's storage life. As herbal medicine usage continues to rise, prioritizing rigorous microbial testing and appropriate preservative techniques will be critical in ensuring the ongoing safety and effectiveness of these traditional formulations.
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.
Amruta N. Avalaskar, Rama Kashikar, Manju Choudhary, Shraddha Shukla, Megha Gadewar and Jyoti Galande
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Microbiological quality assesment of shatavari churna
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201710-9295
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FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main purpose of the study on Shatavari churna?
The study focuses on the microbiological quality assessment of Shatavari churna, evaluating its safety, efficacy, and purity during long-term storage by performing microbial limit tests according to pharmacopeial standards.
What are the benefits of Shatavari churna for women?
Shatavari churna supports healthy reproductive systems, breast milk production, hormonal balance, and can alleviate menopausal problems, making it particularly beneficial for women during and after pregnancy.
What microbial testing methods were used in this evaluation?
The study employed both primary and secondary microbial testing using nutrient broth, nutrient agar, and Sabouraud dextrose agar, along with specific selective media for identifying contaminants.
Why are preservatives like methyl paraben used in herbal formulations?
Preservatives like methyl and propyl paraben are utilized to inhibit microbial growth, ensuring the safety and sustainability of the herbal formulations during long-term storage without affecting their efficacy.
What were the outcomes of the microbial tests on Shatavari churna?
The tests showed that marketed formulations and homemade churna without preservatives exhibited microbial growth, indicating that safety, efficacy, and purity can deteriorate without proper preservative use.
What is the recommended microbial limit for herbal drugs according to WHO?
According to WHO guidelines, the permissible limits for herbal drugs include no E. coli, absent Salmonella species, and a maximum of 10³ for yeast and mold per gram.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Microbiological quality assesment of shatavari churna”. 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) Shatavari (Satavari):
Shatavari, derived from the roots of Asparagus racemosus, is a revered herb in traditional medicine known for its diverse health benefits. It is particularly significant for its role in women's health, supporting reproductive functions and enhancing milk production during lactation, showcasing its importance in holistic health practices.
2) House:
The term 'House' in the context of this study refers to the in-house preparation of Shatavari churna. This highlights the contrast between commercially available formulations and those prepared within a controlled setting, emphasizing the significance of quality control and customization in herbal medicine formulation.
3) Quality:
Quality is pivotal in herbal medicine, directly affecting safety, efficacy, and user trust. In this study, quality assessment is undertaken through microbiological evaluation of Shatavari churna, ensuring that the product adheres to safety standards and is free from harmful microbial contamination, thus maintaining its therapeutic properties.
4) Drug:
In the context of Shatavari churna, 'drug' refers to the herbal formulation used for therapeutic purposes. The study investigates the microbiological quality of this herbal drug, underscoring the importance of rigorous testing to ensure it is safe for consumption and effective for intended health benefits.
5) Purity:
Purity in herbal formulations like Shatavari churna is essential to guarantee its therapeutic potential. The study emphasizes microbial testing to ensure that contaminants do not compromise the quality and effectiveness of the product, reinforcing the importance of purity in traditional medicine and consumer safety.
6) India:
India, with its rich heritage of Ayurveda and herbal medicine, plays a crucial role in the context of Shatavari churna. The study is based on products widely used in India, highlighting the significance of local traditional practices and the need for modern quality standards in herbal formulations.
7) Table:
In the study, the term 'table' refers to the organized presentation of data concerning microbial testing results. Tables facilitate easy comparison and analysis of different formulations, helping to summarize findings effectively and providing clarity on the quality assessment conducted on Shatavari churna.
8) Study (Studying):
The study aims to evaluate the microbiological quality of Shatavari churna, highlighting the need for rigorous testing in herbal formulations. It embodies the intersection of traditional practices and modern scientific methodologies, contributing to the understanding of safety, efficacy, and quality in herbal medicine.
9) Dhanvantari (Dhanvamtari):
Dhanvantari is a marketed brand of Shatavari churna. Its inclusion in the study underscores the analysis of commercially available formulations, comparing them with in-house preparations, thereby evaluating the overall microbial contamination levels and the adherence to safety standards in the herbal medicine market.
10) Medicine:
The term 'medicine' signifies the therapeutic application of Shatavari churna. It encompasses a broad spectrum of traditional pharmacological practices that utilize herbal formulations for health benefits, reinforcing the importance of scientific validation and microbiological safety in the use of such traditional remedies.
11) Species:
In this context, 'species' refers to the taxonomic classification of the plant from which Shatavari churna is derived, Asparagus racemosus. Understanding the species helps in identifying its characteristics, potential therapeutic effects, and the significance of its cultivation in herbal medicine practices.
12) Aureus:
Aureus refers to Staphylococcus aureus, a pathogenic bacterium that poses health risks. The study assesses the microbial presence in Shatavari churna, specifically testing for this bacterium to ensure that the herbal formulation remains safe for consumers and free from harmful microbial contamination.
13) Family:
Family refers to the botanical classification category for plants. Shatavari belongs to the Liliaceae family, which influences its biological properties and health benefits. Understanding the family aids in contextualizing the herbal formulation’s characteristics within the broader spectrum of plant-based medicines.
14) Powder:
The word 'powder' describes the dosage form of Shatavari churna, indicating that it is in powdered form for easy consumption and formulation. This aspect is vital for its application in traditional medicine, signifying its accessibility and the methods of preparation used in herbal treatments.
15) Rama:
Rama Kashikar, one of the authors of the study, represents the academic and professional contribution to the evaluation of Shatavari churna's microbiological quality. The authors' combined efforts reflect a collaborative approach to improving the safety and efficacy of traditional herbal formulations.
16) Pune:
Pune is the location of AISSMS College of Pharmacy, where the study was conducted. This city, known for its educational institutions, signifies the importance of academic research in advancing the understanding and quality assurance of traditional herbal products in India.
17) Road:
Road in this context likely refers to the address location of AISSMS College of Pharmacy in Pune. While it may seem trivial, it situates the research institution within a spatial context, emphasizing the integration of education, commerce, and traditional medicine in urban settings.
18) Milk:
Milk is a significant component of Shatavari churna's health benefits, particularly in lactating women. The herb is renowned for enhancing breast milk production, thereby supporting maternal health and infant nutrition, which is crucial in the context of traditional medicinal practices.
19) Asparagus racemosus:
Asparagus racemosus is the scientific name for Shatavari, the primary herb under investigation. This botanical classification delineates its identity and therapeutic properties, framing the foundation of the study's focus on quality assessment and the implications for traditional medicine.
20) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological refers to the study of the effects of drugs and herbal medicines. In this research, the pharmacological properties of Shatavari are evaluated concerning its safety and efficacy, ensuring that traditional applications are substantiated by scientific methodologies and quality assurance measures.
21) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a condition that Shatavari has been traditionally used to address. Its properties may play a role in treating inflammatory ailments, illustrating the therapeutic potential of herbal formulations in modern healthcare and underscoring the relevance of microbiological safety in such treatments.
22) Maharashtra (Maharastra, Maha-rashtra):
Maharashtra, the state in India where the research was conducted, has a historical context of traditional medicine usage. This geographical relevance emphasizes the local practices and the need for quality control of herbal formulations like Shatavari churna within the regional healthcare framework.
23) Observation:
Observation is a critical component of scientific research. In this study, systematic observation of microbial growth and contamination levels in different formulations allows for informed conclusions, enhancing the understanding of the quality and safety of Shatavari churna for consumer health.
24) Discussion:
Discussion in the context of this study refers to the analytical discourse surrounding the results obtained from microbial testing. It provides critical insights into the implications of the findings, addressing concerns related to quality control and the need for standardization in herbal medicine practices.
25) Shraddha (Sraddha):
Shraddha Shukla is one of the co-authors of the study, contributing to the research efforts aimed at evaluating the microbiological quality of Shatavari churna. This collaboration reflects the importance of teamwork in advancing research quality and expanding the knowledge on herbal formulations.
26) Pregnant:
Pregnant women are a key demographic for herbal formulations like Shatavari churna, as it is known to assist with maintaining healthy breast milk production. Understanding the specific benefits for this group highlights the need for safety in herbal consumption during pregnancy.
27) Debility:
Debility, which refers to a state of weakness or incapacity, is one of the conditions that Shatavari aims to address. Its use in alleviating symptoms of debility underscores the herb's role in promoting overall health and vitality through traditional medicine.
28) Shivani (Sivani):
Shivani Rao is another author involved in the research study, contributing to the knowledge generation and support provided throughout the project. Her involvement highlights the academic framework that supports research into the microbiological quality of herbal products such as Shatavari churna.
29) Shukla (Sukla):
Shukla, referring to Shraddha Shukla, reinforces the collaborative nature of the study. Co-authors play a vital role in bringing diverse expertise to research, enhancing the study's credibility and the depth of investigation into the quality of traditional medicine practices.
30) Forest:
Forest indicates the natural habitat where Shatavari might be found growing, emphasizing the importance of sustainable sourcing of herbs. This environmental aspect underlines the relevance of natural ecosystems in supporting the availability of medicinal plants used in traditional formulations.
31) Cotton:
Cotton, possibly referenced in the context of materials used in the laboratory settings for sterile procedures, highlights the importance of maintaining hygiene and aseptic conditions during microbiological testing. This practice ensures valid and reliable results in the assessment of herbal formulations.
32) Manju (Mamju):
Manju Choudhary, as a co-author, signifies the collective effort involved in this research. Her contribution emphasizes the collaborative nature of scientific inquiry in assessing quality and safety in herbal medicine, promoting a thorough evaluation of Shatavari churna.
33) Megha:
Megha Gadewar is also a co-author involved in the study, showcasing the teamwork essential for conducting comprehensive research in the field of microbiological assessment. Her participation enriches the study by bringing varied perspectives and expertise to the evaluation process.
34) Kalpa:
Kalpa refers to another dosage form of Shtavari derived from traditional formulations, alongside churna. This highlights the diverse applications of Shatavari in herbal medicine, emphasizing the need for quality and safety evaluations across all forms used in therapeutic practices.
35) Ulcer:
Ulcers are among the health issues that Shatavari aims to treat, showcasing its gastrointestinal protective properties. Recognizing this benefit reinforces the relevance of studying the microbial quality of Shatavari churna to ensure it remains safe for consumption in treating such conditions.
36) Blood:
Blood signifies the nourishing aspect of Shatavari, which is believed to cleanse and enrich blood. This highlights the herb's holistic health benefits and necessitates rigorous safety assessments to confirm its efficacy and safety for consumers aiming to improve their overall health.
37) Food:
Food in this context emphasizes the nourishing properties of Shatavari churna. Acknowledging its role as a health supplement illustrates the dual purpose of medicinal herbs in both culinary and therapeutic applications, warranting thorough quality testing to ensure safety and efficacy.
38) Male:
Male refers to the demographic that can also benefit from Shatavari, particularly in supporting hormonal balance and reproductive health. This expands the understanding of Shatavari's applications in traditional medicine beyond just women's health, highlighting its broader therapeutic relevance.