Abstract

STANDARD MANUFACTURING PROCEDURE (SMP) OF KUMKUMADI GHRITA: AN AYURVEDIC FORMULATION

PK Prajapati *, Amrutia A, Rohit Sharma, BJ Patigiri

Abstract

Introduction: Kumkumadi Ghrita (KG) is one of the highly valued formulations among Ayurvedic physicians, commonly recommended in conditions like skin disorders especially Mukhdushika (Acne vulgaris). Kesar (stigma of Crocus sativus Linn) is a prime ingredient in the formulation. However due to high cost and increased adulteration trends in Kesar, another botanical ‘Nagakesar’ (Mesua ferrea Linn.) is suggested by Ayurvedic experts as an substitute, which have relatively low cost and possess similar therapeutic attributes like Kesar. Recent studies also reveal equal efficacy of KG prepared with Kesar and KG prepared with Nagakesar’. In spite of wide utility of KG in Ayurvedic practice, no published work is available till date on manufacturing guidelines. Aims and Objectives: To develop SMP (Standard Manufacturing Procedure) for Kesaryukta (with Kesar) Kumkumadi Ghrita (KKG) and Nagakesar yukta (with Nagakesar) Kumkumadi Ghrita (NKG). Materials and Methods: Total three batches of KKG and NKG each were prepared in the laboratory by adopting Ayurvedic classical guidelines. Pharmaceutical findings and observations during its preparation were systematically recorded. Prepared KKG and NKG were further subjected to organoleptic analysis. Results and Conclusion: The average percentage loss in final product was 10.18 % in KKG and 7.58 % in NKG. Since, Kesar is costlier than Nagakesar, NKG can be preferred over KKG as per total yield is concerned. No difference was found on average duration for preparation of KKG and NKG i.e. 9.20 hrs and 9.21 hrs respectively. The study suggests that coarse powdered ingredients should be used instead of fine powders for pharmaceutical process to achieve maximum yield in expensive formulation, Kumkumadi Ghrita, and heating should be done only up to Madhyama Paka stage. NKG was found more cost effective than KKG, thus it can be preferred over KKG for future utilization in pharmaceutical companies. Data obtained by present study may be considered as standard for future researches

Keywords: Kesar, Nagakesar, Kumkumadi Ghrita, Murcchana, Ghrita Paka.