Formulation and quality assessment of a polyherbal capsule (gas relief pro) for gastrointestinal discomfort

Abstract

This study presents the formulation and quality assessment of a polyherbal capsule (Gas Relief Pro) designed for gastrointestinal discomfort. The capsule combined extracts of Trachyspermum Ammi, Mentha spicata leaf powder, Mentha spicata extract, Cyperus rotundus extract, Zingiber officinale extract, Asafoetida oleogum resin, Piper nigrum extract, Cuminum cyminum powder, and Cassia fistula pods extract. Preformulation parameters showed bulk density 0.47-0.52 g/ml, tapped density 0.51-0.56 g/ml, Carr’s index 7.8-8.8%, Hausner ratio 1.08-1.09, and angle of repose 20-23°, confirming excellent flowability. Capsule evaluation revealed an average weight of 588-635 mg, a fill weight of 458-505 mg, a moisture content of 5.1-5.2%, and a disintegration time of 5 minutes. HPLC quantification of thymol confirmed content uniformity (28-30 mg/capsule), with method validation showing linearity (20-100 ppm; r² = 0.999), precision (RSD <1.2%), LOD 5 ppm, LOQ 5 ppm, and recovery 98.5-100.2%. The capsule exhibited acceptable stability and reproducibility, supporting its potential as a standardized herbal alternative for gastrointestinal discomfort.