Evaluation of Antacid Potential of Ayurvedic Poly-Herbal Formulation for Functional Dyspepsia

Aim: Ayurveda describes herbal or polyherbal or herbo-mineral medicines such as Avipattikar churna for treatment of Amlapitta, ajirna for centuries. Ayurvedic medicines are associated with limitations namely, palatability, stability and accuracy of dose. Ayurvedic medicines lack in adequate safety and efficacy evidence data. The aim of the study was to develop a stable and palatable Avipattikar suspension using recent formulation and analytical techniques. The study was also aimed at determination of acid neutralizing capacity of Avipattikar suspension and predicting its efficacy for treatment of Functional Dyspepsia and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder. Methods: Flocculated Avipattikar suspension was prepared using sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) as the suspending agent, sodium citrate as the flocculating agent, mannitol as a taste masking agent. Sodium carboxymethylcellulose, sodium citrate, Tween 80®, glycerin and mannitol were not used in Deflocculated Avipattikar suspension. The sedimentation volume, degree of flocculation, redispersibility and pH of the suspension was evaluated. The acid neutralization capacity of Avipattikar suspension was determined by Unite States Pharmacopoeia method.

Results: The present study successfully demonstrated formulation of stable Avipattikar suspension from Avipattikar churna. The suspendability of sediment was retained for 15 days in presence of CMC. The results indicated that the acid neutralizing capacity of Avipattikar suspension (2.80 mMol of H+/ gm) was similar to that of the marketed antacid suspension (2.756 mMol of H+/ gm). The unpleasant taste of herbal drugs was masked satisfactorily.

Conclusion: Avipattikar suspension may be a cheaper, safer and effective alternative for current antacids for the treatment of functional dyspepsia.