Physicochemical Screening and Shelf Life Evaluation of Kuṅkumādi Ghṛta Prepared using Kesara and Nāgakesara

摘要

Introduction:Kuṅkumādi Ghṛta (KG) is an Ayurvedic formulation commonly recommended in skin disorders, especially Mukhadūṣikā (Acne vulgaris). Kesara (stigma of Crocus sativus Linn.) is a prime ingredient in the formulation. However, due to high cost and increased adulteration in Kesara, ‘Nāgakesara’ (Mesua ferrea Linn.) is suggested by Ayurvedic experts as a substitute. Nāgakesara is relatively lower in cost and possesses similar therapeutic attributes to that of Kesara. Recent studies have established standard manufacturing procedures and clinical efficacies of Kesarayukta (with Kesara) Kuṅkumādi Ghṛta (KKG) and Nāgakesara yukta (with Nāgakesara) Kuṅkumādi Ghṛta (NKG) in Mukhadūṣikā. In spite of wide utility of KG in Ayurvedic practice, no published work on its shelf life is available so far.