Exploring the Anthelmintic Activity of Polyherbal Chocolates Formulated with Dolichos Biflorus and Lepidium Sativum Seed Extracts: An In-Vitro Evaluation

Helminthes infections are among the most common infections in human beings in which intestinal parasitic worms cause infection and physiological damage. Specially in children, intestinal parasite infections frequently result in morbidity and death. In the present study, we have investigated the anthelmintic activity of the Lepidium sativum and Dolichos biflorus, medicinal plant used for treatment of number of ailments. In addition, emphasis is given on formulation of polyherbal chocholate to increase palatability and compliance. Anthelmintic activity was evaluated on mature Pheretima Posthuma (Earthworms) by adult motility assay. Anthelmintic activity was determined by keeping earthworms with different concentration of plant extract and then paralysis and death time was recorded. Albendazole was used as a standard. Results shows that the Dolichos biflorus seed extract at 15 gm % concentration shows greater i.e. 1.6 ± 0.18 min paralysis time and 23.2 ± 0.18 min death time as compare to Lepidium sativum extract. The combinations of Dolichos biflorus and Lepidium sativum were also done, however the results of combination were not found to be synergistic. The polyherbal chocolate at 15 gm % concentration shows 4.3 ± 0.26 min paralysis time and 30.1 ± 0.18 min death time. These findings indicate the anthelmintic potential of a polyherbal chocolate formulation containing Lepidium sativum and Dolichos biflorus against a single species of helminth (Pheretima Posthuma), indicating its promise as a novel, palatable and natural alternative to conventional remedies. By improving drug stability and compliance, chocolate-based formulations could significantly contribute to more effective management of parasitic worm infections.