Nutritional Profiling and Heavy Metal Analysis of Withania Somnifera Based Polyherbal Formulation- Aswagandhadi Lehyam

Life Sciences-Biotechnology for prospective medical science

Abstract

Aswagandhadi lehyam, is one of the most popular formulations prescribed as Rasayana (tonic) in the traditional medical system of India, Ayurveda.  As like other lehyam  formulations,  Aswagandhadi  lehyam  prepared  as per the avaleha Kalpana in ayurveda. The formulation received its name from its major ingredient, Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). Even though the Aswagandhadi lehyam used generally as rasayana, its major ingredient Ashwagandha has various medical benefits. Ashwagandha  is  compared  well  with  Eleutherococcus  senticosus  (Siberian  Ginseng)  and  Panax  Ginseng  (Chinese  /  Korean Ginseng) in its adaptogenic  properties,  and hence it is popularly known as Indian  Ginseng. Since it is used as majorly as rasayana,  in  addition  to its  pharmacological  studies  and chemical  standardisation  its  nutritional  profiling  also  needs  to be studied. In the present study the nutritional profiling of the Aswagandhadi lehyam is studied, which will provide a better idea regarding  the nutritional  values while consumed generally  for increasing physical strength, endurance,  stamina, vitality and vigor. It is also important to have an understanding regarding the heavy metal contamination of the formulation. Heavy metal analysis  of  the  formulation  is  done  in  Inductively  coupled  plasma  mass  spectrometry  (ICP-MS).  The  aswagandhadi  lehyam prepared as per avaleha kalpana and Sahasrayogam, is regarded as the industrial working standard, and is considered for the study.. The organoleptic analysis reported - as smooth, dark brown sweet product, pleasant aroma and creamy texture. Nutritional profiling results evidenced the health benefits of the formulation including ~389 kCal of energy value, 2.1% fibre content etc. Heavy metal contamination study done with ICPMS reported the presence of trace elements like Mercury (Hg), Arsenic (As), Lead (Pb), and Cadmium (Cd) in a range of 0.02-0.39 ppm.