AVALEHA FORMULATIONS CONTAINING HARITAKI (Terminalia chebula Retz) AS MAIN INGREDIENT: A CRITICAL REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Ayurveda has a specialty known as Rasayana that focuses on maintaining good health and preventing disease. Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) is a centuries-old supplement used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. Popular Avaleha Kalpana of Haritaki is utilized in diseases such as Kasa, Shwasa, Hikka, Kshaya etc. Different types of Avaleha formulations containing Haritaki as main ingredient were described in classical texts of Ayurveda i.e. Danti Haritaki, Agatsya Haritaki, Kansa Haritaki etc. Acharya Charaka first time mentioned Danti Haritaki and he has mentioned 3 types of Avaleha which has Haritaki as main ingredient.  Aim: The aim is to screen and compile references pertaining to Avaleha formulations containing Haritaki as main ingredient in accordance with its ingredients, pharmaceutical process and dose from different classics. Materials and methods: Description of Avaleha formulations containing Haritaki as main ingredient was extensively reviewed from Charaka Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, Vrindamadhava, Gadanigraha, Vangasena, Bhavaprakasha Samhita, Bhaishajya Ratnavali and Yogaratnakara. Results: Variations in formulations name, ingredients, method of preparation, therapeutic indications and dose was observed in the classical texts. Conclusion: Screening through various texts revealed that in 12 formulations (70.59 %) out of 17, Haritaki was taken in 100 Number. Out of 17 formulations; 10 formulations were indicated in Kasa, Shwasa, Kshaya. 4 formulations were indicated in Shotha, 1 formulation was Sarvarogahara, 1 formulation was indicated in Nasaroga and 1 especially for Vajikarana. The AFI mentioned that 1 Haritaki is equivalent to 12 g for preparation of these formulations.