Pharmaceutical and analytical study on modified dosage form (tablet) of Vidanga Tandula Rasayana: An Ayurveda Rasayana formulation

Abstract BACKGROUND: Rasayana (immunomodulator) is integral to Ayurveda and offers a significant understanding of longevity and health promotion. However, their integration into contemporary healthcare necessitates adapting them into modern dosage forms for ease of utility and broader dispensing. This study focuses on the pharmaceutical and analytical aspects of a modified dosage form as a tablet derived from the classical Ayurveda immunomodulator formulation, Vidanga Tandula Rasayana (VTR). METHODS: For the preparation of VTR, equal parts of Yastimadhu and Vidanga powders were taken and mixed with honey, which is used as Sahapana in the textual reference, along with a binding agent. The reference was taken from the classical text, Sushruta Samhita—the reference method for tablet preparation as per the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. The tablet was subjected to physicochemical analyses, which included a loss on drying, total ash, acid-insoluble ash, and aqueous and alcohol-soluble extractives. Additionally, powder microscopic analysis was conducted to evaluate the presence of characteristic cells and structures indicative of the ingredients. Qualitative phytochemical screening and analytical specifications of the tablet were assessed to ascertain its quality and for standardization purposes. Tests related to toxic contaminants such as microbial load, heavy metals, and aflatoxins were also performed. OBSERVATION AND RESULTS: Results revealed that all physicochemical parameters were within the general defined limits of tablets. While powder microscopy confirmed the presence of specific cellular features consistent with the ingredients, the tablet’s analytical specifications also met standard requirements. The microbial contaminants and aflatoxins were below detectable limits. Heavy metal levels were within acceptable ranges. CONCLUSION: The pharmaceutical and analytical evaluation indicates that VTR can be modified into tablet form, which has several advantages such as ease of dispensing, better shelf life, fixed dosage administration, and ease of dispensing. The present work can be considered an innovative and preliminary attempt at pharmaceutical and analytical evaluation of VTR.