Evaluation of the Anti-carcinogenic and Anti-inflammatory Effects of Lokanatha rasa: A mercurial preparation

Rasa Shastra is a branch of Ayurveda pharmaceutics that focusses on mercury-based preparations known as Rasaushadies. Lokanatha Rasa (LKN) is a Rasaushadie mentioned Rasasendra Sara Sangrahya, and is especially indicated for Liver and spleen disorders. It contains Kajjali (Parada and Gandhaka), and incinerated forms (Bhasma) of Abhra, Lauha, Thamra and Varatika. No scientific research has been conducted regarding LKN. This study aims on the evaluation of the invitro anticarcinogenic activity of LKN using HepG2 cancer cell line and to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of it using the HRBC (Human Red Blood CELL) membrane stabilizing method. Cell viability of different concentrations of LKN on Hep G2 cell line was studied using MTT assay. Therefore, prevention of hypotonicity induced HRBC membrane lysis was taken as an invitro measure of anti-inflammatory activity of the drug. The inhibition percentage followed an exponential increase beyond 2 mg/mL, suggesting a threshold concentration at which LKN exerts significant cytotoxic effects. The MTT assay was directly proportional to its concentration. At the lowest tested concentration (0.0625 mg/mL) the % of inhibition was 27.73% and the highest concentration of LKN i.e. 1000mg/mL% of inhibition was 67.01. Results reveal that LKN possesses anti-inflammatory activity, though less than Diclofenac sodium.