Evaluation of the anti-inflammatory effect of lokanatha rasa: a mercurial preparation in ayurveda rasa shastra

Abstract

Rasa shastra is a prominent branch of Ayurveda pharmaceutics, where Mercury stands as the primary material of significance. Pharmaceutical formulations utilizing Mercury are termed Rasaushadies, renowned for their superiority owing to their quick efficacy, low dosages, and absence of an unpleasant taste. Lokanatha rasa holds paramount importance as a potent remedy for liver, and spleen disorders, and edema conditions. This study aimed to conduct an in vitro evaluation of the anti- inflammatory potential of self-prepared Lokanatha rasa by assessing its effect on hypotonicity-induced lysis of Human Red Blood Cells. For comparison, Diclofenac sodium was used as a positive control. The degree of membrane stabilization was determined at various concentrations of Lokanatha rasa. Notably, the Lokanatha rasa solution exhibited a maximum membrane stabilization of 79.52% at a concentration (dose) of 500µg/mL, thereby indicating promising anti-inflammatory activity in a concentration-dependent manner.