Ayurvedic Pharmaceutics, Manufacturing Processes and Novel Drug Delivery Systems in Ayurveda

Abstract

For the first time, Charak Samhita mentioned four components of treatment which are physician, drug, attendant and patient to complete the objective of Ayurvedic therapeutics. Drugs were, therefore, important component of treatment plan.

In the ancient times, Ayurvedic physicians were preparing the drugs for their patients on their own. Over the centuries the drug dosage forms witnessed evolution providing the evidence of adopting new knowledge and technology in Bhaisajya Kalpana (Ayurvedic pharmaceutics) and drug manufacturing processes.

It is to be noted that while basic dosage forms like powder, decoction and juices were mentioned since the times of Charak Samhita, introduction of Rasaushadhis (Mercurial products) took place only in the eleventh century AD and was a significant milestone in the development of therapeutic armamentarium of Ayurveda.

The chapter provides insights into gradual progression of Ayurvedic dosage forms, manufacturing process, inherent application of novel drug delivery systems, quality control parameters of raw materials and dosage forms as per Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India besides stages in Ayurvedic drug development process.