Best therapeutic activity of Rasna saptak kwath may be achieved by its hydro-alcoholic dosage form: A comparative study

Abstract

Rasna saptak kwath (RSK) is an Ayurvedic polyherbal formulation. In Ayurvedic classics it is recommended to administer this drug in decoction form only, to treat inflammation and pain related to the rheumatoid disorders. The present study was carried to fulfill two aims. First aim was to characterize the Ayurvedic preparation i.e. RSK which is a polyherbal formulation comprising of eight ingredients including an adjuvant drug, on the basis of the physicochemical, pharmaceutical, microbiological, spectroscopic and chromatographic parameters to confirm its identity, quality and purity. The second aim was to provide this formulation into some another dosage form for much better therapeutic activity in comparison to decoction form. Both the extracts were compared for standardization and for antioxidant activity. The results revealed that HA extract possess more phyto-constituents. The IC50 of HA extract was 33.3µg/ml while that of AQ extract was 480µg/ml. Microbial load and heavy metal analysis confirm their safety issue.