POLYHERBAL GARGLE COMPOSITION FOR PHARYNGITIS MANAGEMENT

Abstract

The present invention relates to the field 5 of herbal medicine and pharmacology, specifically focusing on the formulation and clinical evaluation of a herbal decoction gargle comprising Roscoea purpurea, Curcuma longa, and Glycyrrhiza glabra. This invention addresses the treatment of pharyngitis, a condition characterized by inflammation and irritation of the throat, and establishes a 10 correlation with the Ayurvedic condition Galagraha.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to the field 5 of herbal medicine and pharmacology,
specifically focusing on the formulation and clinical evaluation of an herbal
decoction gargle comprising Roscoea purpurea, Curcuma longa, and Glycyrrhiza
glabra. This invention addresses the treatment of pharyngitis, a condition
characterized by inflammation and irritation of the throat, and establishes a
10 correlation with the Ayurvedic condition Galagraha. Furthermore, the inclusion of
preservatives such as Sodium Propyl Paraben and Sodium Methyl Paraben
enhances the shelf life and stability of the herbal formulation, ensuring its efficacy
over an extended period.
15 BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Pharyngitis, commonly referred to as a sore throat, presents a range of symptoms,
including burning sensations, tickling, and scratchy feelings in the throat. These
symptoms typically manifest as a general soreness that begins at the back of the
oral cavity and gradually extends to the middle throat, often accompanied by
20 varying degrees of pain. While pharyngitis is frequently a symptom of other
underlying illnesses, it primarily results from inflammation of the sensitive throat
tissues.
In contemporary practice, there is a growing concern regarding the limitations of
current treatment options for recurrent and chronic throat disorders, leading to
25 increased interest in Ayurvedic approaches to treatment. Ayurvedic literature,
notably the works of Charakacharya, provides insights into pharyngitis, correlating
it with the condition known as Galagraha. This condition is characterized by the
vitiation of the Kapha dosha, which settles in the Mukha (oral cavity) region,
leading to inflammation (shotha) of the throat.
3
Ashtanga Hridaya, an authoritative Ayurvedic text, emphasizes the importance of
Kawal Chikitsa (gargling) as an effective treatment for throat disorders (Mukhagat
and Gala rogas). The Kawal technique involves filling the mouth with a liquid that
can be easily moved, providing symptomatic relief.
The incidence of throat disorders, including pharyngitis, 5 has escalated due to factors
such as increased air pollution, various allergens, and viral infections (e.g., COVID-
19 and seasonal flu). This rise in throat ailments has resulted in significant
morbidity, contributing to frequent visits to ENT clinics. Ayurvedic texts classify
Galagraha as one of the most common throat disorders, highlighting its correlation
10 with modern pharyngitis.
Modern medical science recognizes pharyngitis as a prevalent cause of throat
discomfort, primarily resulting from the infection or irritation of the pharyngeal
mucosa. However, the reliance on prolonged antibiotic use in conventional
treatments raises concerns regarding antibiotic resistance. Therefore, there is an
15 urgent need for Ayurvedic remedies, which are believed to provide effective relief
without significant side effects.
In light of this, the present study evaluates the efficacy of a decoction gargle
composed of Roscoea purpurea (Kankol), Curcuma longa (Haridra), and
Glycyrrhiza glabra (Yashtimadhu).
20 Patel, A., and Kumar, S. in their study titled "Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal
Gargle for Throat Infection," published in the Journal of Herbal Pharmacotherapy
(2020), investigated a herbal gargle composition utilizing extracts of Curcuma
longa (turmeric), Ocimum sanctum (holy basil), and Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice).
The formulation exhibited notable antimicrobial effects against bacterial strains
25 commonly associated with throat infections, particularly Streptococcus pyogenes.
The study concluded that these herbal components, known for their antiinflammatory
and soothing properties, could offer significant benefits in sore throat
management.
4
Singh, R., and Mehta, M. (2021) examined a polyherbal formulation in their article
"Polyherbal Formulation for Pharyngitis and Respiratory Infections: An Ayurvedic
Approach," published in the Asian Journal of Ayurvedic Medicine. This study
combined herbs like Roscoea purpurea, Curcuma longa, and Adhatoda vasica,
evaluating their effectiveness in treating 5 symptoms of pharyngitis. The results
indicated that the blend provided anti-inflammatory benefits and helped reduce
pharyngeal irritation and swelling, making it suitable for managing respiratory and
throat infections within Ayurvedic therapeutic frameworks.
Gupta, L. presented a study titled "Herbal Remedies for Throat Infections" in the
10 International Journal of Ayurvedic Research (2019), which focused on the use of
Mentha piperita (peppermint) and Piper betle (betel leaf) in a gargle solution for
sore throat relief. This composition was shown to provide a mild anesthetic effect
that helped alleviate pain while also demonstrating antimicrobial properties that
could control the growth of infection-causing microorganisms in the pharyngeal
15 area.
In their research published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2018),
Choudhary, N., and Sharma, V. explored the efficacy of Zingiber officinale (ginger)
and Terminalia chebula in treating sore throat in the paper titled "Traditional
Herbal Remedies for Throat and Respiratory Ailments." The study highlighted the
20 herbs' synergistic antibacterial and anti-inflammatory actions, which effectively
managed symptoms such as soreness, cough, and throat irritation. The authors
emphasized that such herbal combinations could provide a natural alternative to
conventional antiseptics in treating mild to moderate throat infections.
Prior studies have established that Curcuma longa exhibits antioxidant properties
25 and offers numerous benefits, including anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, antiseptic,
and blood-cleansing effects. Similarly, Glycyrrhiza glabra is recognized for its
antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitussive, antidiabetic, antiviral,
anticancer, antimutagenic, and antiulcer properties. Roscoea purpurea is noted for
5
its effectiveness in addressing age-related issues, body debility, impotency,
arthritis, burning sensations, inflammation, and fever.
This study is conducted as a randomized clinical trial involving two groups: a trial
group receiving the herbal decoction gargle and a control group administered
chlorhexidine 0.2% w/v liquid. 5 Each group comprises 30 patients who provided
informed consent to participate in this research.
The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical efficacy of the Roscoea purpurea,
Curcuma longa, and Glycyrrhiza glabra decoction gargle in the treatment of
pharyngitis, thereby contributing to the existing body of knowledge in both
10 Ayurvedic and modern medicine.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to the field of herbal medicine and pharmacology,
specifically focusing on the formulation and clinical evaluation of a herbal
decoction gargle comprising Roscoea purpurea, Curcuma longa, and Glycyrrhiza
15 glabra.
This invention addresses the treatment of pharyngitis, a condition characterized by
inflammation and irritation of the throat, and establishes a correlation with the
Ayurvedic condition Galagraha. Furthermore, the inclusion of preservatives such
as Sodium Propyl Paraben and Sodium Methyl Paraben enhances the shelf life and
20 stability of the herbal formulation, ensuring its efficacy over an extended period.
By preventing microbial contamination and degradation, these preservatives
contribute to the long-term preservation of the decoction's therapeutic properties,
making it suitable for extended storage and use in clinical settings.
The invention explores the therapeutic efficacy of the herbal composition in
25 alleviating symptoms associated with pharyngitis and offers a natural alternative to
conventional antiseptic treatments, such as chlorhexidine, while highlighting the
safety and effectiveness of the herbal decoction in clinical settings.
6
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The following is a detailed description of the present disclosure. The embodiments
are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount
of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments;
on the contrary, the intention is 5 to cover all modifications, equivalents, and
alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined
by the appended claims.
Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification which follow,
the word "comprise" and variations thereof, such as, "comprises" and "comprising"
10 are to be construed in an open, inclusive sense that is as "including, but not limited
to."
Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment"
means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection
with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances
15 of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places
throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same
embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may
be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.
The headings and abstract of the invention provided herein are for convenience only
20 and do not interpret the scope or meaning of the embodiments.
Pharyngitis is characterized by symptoms such as a burning sensation, tickling or
scratchy throat, and varying degrees of pain, often resulting from inflammation of
the pharyngeal mucosa. It is commonly seen in clinical settings and is often
associated with respiratory infections. Current treatment options, primarily
25 antibiotics and antiseptics like chlorhexidine, have limitations, including antibiotic
resistance and side effects.
7
This invention provides a formulation based on traditional Ayurvedic principles,
which correlates pharyngitis with the Ayurvedic condition Galagraha, characterized
by the vitiation of Kapha dosha causing inflammation in the throat area. The use of
herbal remedies offers a safer, effective alternative for managing pharyngitis
5 symptoms.
1. Composition of the Decoction Gargle
The decoction is prepared using equal parts of the following herbs:
a. Roscoea purpurea (Kankol)
Properties: Known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antifungal effects. It is
10 traditionally used to alleviate age-related issues, body debility, and inflammation.
In traditional practices, Roscoea purpurea has been administered to reduce throat
inflammation and discomfort.
b. Curcuma longa (Haridra)
Properties: Exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and blood-cleansing
15 properties. Its active component, curcumin, is well-studied for its medicinal effects.
Often used in Ayurvedic formulations to treat infections and enhance healing
processes.
c. Glycyrrhiza glabra (Yashtimadhu)
Properties: Displays antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antitussive, and antiviral
20 activities. It is effective in soothing throat irritation and promoting mucosal healing.
Glycyrrhiza glabra is commonly found in throat lozenges and syrups for its
soothing properties.
Examples:
8
1. Formulation Table
Sr No. Ingredient Quantity Water Final
product
1 Sunthi (Zingiber officinale) 6gm
1600ml
800ml
2 Marisch (Piper nigrum) 6gm
3 Pippali (Piper. longum) 6gm
4 Daruharidra (Berberis aristata) 18gm
5 Haridra (Curcuma longa) 18gm
6 Yashthimadhu (Glycyrrhiza
glabra)
18gm
7 Kankol (Roscoea purpurea) 18gm
8 Purified Tankan (Calcined
Borax)
10gm
Total 100gm 1600ml 800ml
Preservatives: Sodium Propyl Paraben and Sodium Methyl Paraben
2. Procedure:
Combine the herbs in equal quantities (1 part each) and add water (64 parts).
Boil the mixture until it reduces 5 to approximately half the original volume (about
200 ml).
Use this liquid for gargling, ensuring the gargle lasts for up to 5 minutes, twice a
day, for 7 days.
3. Administration:
10 Patients are instructed to fill their mouth with the prepared decoction, allowing it to
move freely for effective gargling, referred to as "Kawala" in Ayurvedic texts.
9
4. Study and Clinical Evaluation
A randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted with 60 participants suffering
from various types of pharyngitis, divided into a trial group and a control group.
 Trial Group: Received the decoction gargle.
 Control Group: Received 5 Chlorhexidine liquid gargles (0.2% w/v).
5. Assessment Criteria:
Symptoms such as throat pain, posterior wall congestion, difficulty in swallowing,
and anorexia were evaluated before and after treatment.
Results
10 The study observed significant relief of symptoms in both groups. However, the
decoction gargle was found to be more effective than chlorhexidine, with no
reported side effects.
The formulation of Roscoea purpurea, Curcuma longa, and Glycyrrhiza glabra
decoction gargle offers an effective, safe, and holistic approach to treating
15 pharyngitis, substantiated by clinical evidence. This invention not only serves as a
remedy for throat disorders but also highlights the relevance of Ayurvedic medicine
in contemporary healthcare.
Example of Application
Use Case: A patient presenting with pharyngitis can be administered this decoction
20 gargle to alleviate symptoms, providing relief comparable to conventional
treatments while avoiding potential side effects associated with antibiotic use. , Claims:1. An herbal decoction gargle composition for the treatment of pharyngitis,
comprising an effective amount of the following herbal ingredients:
a. Roscoea purpurea (Kankol)
5 b. Curcuma longa (Haridra)
c. Glycyrrhiza glabra (Yashtimadhu)
2. The herbal decoction gargle composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
herbal decoction gargle further comprises; Zingiber officinale (6gm), Piper
nigrum (6 gm), Piper longum (6 gm), Berberis aristata (18 gm), Purified
10 Tankan (10 gm).
3. The herbal decoction gargle composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
inclusion of preservatives such as Sodium Propyl Paraben and Sodium Methyl
Paraben enhances the shelf life and stability of the herbal formulation, ensuring
its efficacy over an extended period.
15 4. A method for preparing the herbal decoction gargle composition as claimed in
claim 1, wherein comprising the steps of:
a. Combining equal parts of Roscoea purpurea, Curcuma longa, Glycyrrhiza
glabra, and other herbal ingredients as listed in claim 3.
b. Adding water in a ratio of 1:64 to the combined herbs.
20 c. Boiling the mixture until it reduces to approximately half the original
volume.
5. A method for preparing the herbal decoction gargle composition as claimed in
claim 1, wherein the gargling technique follows the Ayurvedic practice of
"Kawala," allowing the gargle to move freely in the mouth for effective
25 treatment.
11
6. A method for preparing the herbal decoction gargle composition as claimed in
claim 1, wherein it exhibits anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, and
antioxidant properties as demonstrated in clinical evaluations.
7. A randomized controlled clinical trial for evaluating 5 the efficacy of the herbal
decoction gargle as claimed in claim 1, wherein;
a. A trial group of patients with pharyngitis receives the herbal decoction
gargle.
b. A control group of patients receives chlorhexidine 0.2% w/v liquid as a
10 comparative treatment.
8. The clinical evaluation as claimed in claim 1, wherein the symptoms of throat
pain, posterior wall congestion, difficulty in swallowing, and anorexia are
assessed before and after treatment.
9. The herbal decoction gargle composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein it
15 provides significant relief from symptoms of pharyngitis compared to
conventional antiseptic treatments, while exhibiting no reported side effects.

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