Chemical, microbiological and comparative fermentation studies on dasamularishta

Area of Science:

• Ayurvedic medicine
• Pharmaceutical sciences
• Microbiology

Background:

• Dasamularista is a traditional Ayurvedic formulation prepared via fermentation.
• The preparation process can influence the final product's alcohol content and microbial profile.
• Sodhana (purification) of ingredients like Citraka (Plumbago rosea Linn.) may alter its chemical composition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of different containers (glass vs. earthen pot) on alcohol production during Dasamularista fermentation.
• To identify microorganisms present during the fermentation process.
• To assess the impact of sodhana-purification on Citraka's plumbagin content.

Main Methods:

• Dasamularista was prepared in both glass and earthen pots following national formulary guidelines.
• Alcohol content was measured in the final products.
• Microbial analysis was performed during fermentation to identify yeast and bacteria.
• Plumbagin content in Citraka before and after sodhana was analyzed.

Main Results:

• The Dasamularista prepared in a glass vessel exhibited a higher alcohol concentration compared to the product from an earthen pot.
• Two types of yeast and one bacterium, Micrococcus luteus, were identified during fermentation.
• Sodhana-purification of Citraka resulted in a 50% reduction in plumbagin content.
• Micrococcus luteus was confirmed as a non-alcohol producing organism.

Conclusions:

• Container material significantly influences alcohol yield in Dasamularista fermentation, with glass being superior to earthen pots.
• The fermentation process involves specific yeast strains and the non-alcohol producing bacterium Micrococcus luteus.
• Sodhana-purification of Citraka leads to a substantial decrease in its active compound, plumbagin, which may affect the final drug's efficacy.