Standardization and Quality Control of Ayurvedic Polyherbal Formulations

Ayurvedic polyherbal formulations are increasingly explored internationally as a budding field of therapeutic potential based on thousands of years of traditional medicinal practice. However, the absence of standardization protocol and stringent quality control measures is a significant barrier, and the adoption of their safe and effective use in western healthcare is a challenge. The goal of this review is to evaluate the standardization and quality control measures related to Ayurvedic polyherbal formulations. The review discusses the complexity of multi-component herbal mixtures, variability of raw material and absence of marker compounds and synergistic effects which make reproducibility more difficult. The review emphasizes the use of modern techniques including High-Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC), Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) methods, and microbiological analyses, all increasingly common approaches to assess the variance in products. While there have been advances in the use of HPTLC and LC-MS for standardization and quality control, many regulatory frameworks do not exist, and harmonized quality standards are absent. The review indicates a need for the traditional Ayurvedic approach and modern science to work collaboratively to develop standardized strategies. A successful collaborative effort would lead to increased global/consumer recognition, acceptance and contribution to enhanced public safety regarding the quality and efficacy of these established therapeutic preparations.