Physicochemical characterization and antimicrobial properties of Mahamanjishthadi kadha: An Ayurvedic formulation

Skin infections are common throughout the world. With high infectivity amongst skin pathogens, approximately 300 million people are affected worldwide. The increasing rate of failure of chemotherapeutics and antibiotic resistance exhibited by pathogenic microbial infectious agents, has increased the use of Ayurvedic medicines. This study aims to standardize an Ayurvedic formulation, Mahamanjisthadi kadha and to evaluate its antimicrobial properties against skin infection, causing pathogens. Physicochemical analysis such as organoleptic tests, pH, alcohol content, Brix and Specific gravity was done. Phytochemical screening was performed for various bioactive compounds. Heavy metals, aflatoxins and microbial load were checked for contaminants. Chromatographic analysis was performed to estimate lupeol, ellagic acid and gallic acid, using high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC). Antimicrobial activity was determined against five common pathogens causing skin infections, using well-diffusion method. Organoleptic tests confirmed brown color and characteristic odor of self generated alcohol with bitter and astringent taste. Phytochemical screening showed the presence of alkaloids, steroids, triterpenoids, tannins, phenolic compounds, saponins and flavonoids. HPTLC analysis confirmed the presence of lupeol, ellagic acid and gallic acid. Heavy metals, aflatoxins and microbial load were found within the permissible limit. Antimicrobial study showed the formulation could inhibit growth of Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Escherichia coli. The study presented has completely characterized the formulation will serve as reference to develop quality control profile of Mahamnjishtadi kadha and help in validating therapeutic efficacy of this formulation.