Abstract

PHARMACEUTICAL, ANALYTICAL AND ANTIFUNGAL EVALUATION OF AKALA PALITYAHARA LEPA AND ITS MODIFIED GEL FOR ENHANCED TOPICAL DRUG DELIVERY

Dr. Mitushi Shah*, Dr. Renuka Suryawanshi, Vd. Shashin Tapare

Abstract

Background: Akala Palitya (premature greying of hair) is a common condition described in Ayurveda. Akala Palityahara Lepa is a traditional topical formulation used to manage this condition. However, it has some limitations, such as the need for fresh preparation, short shelf life, and difficulty in application. Aim: To prepare a modified gel from Akala Palityahara Lepa and compare both formulations based on their pharmaceutical properties, physicochemical characteristics, microbial quality, phytochemical profile, and antifungal activity. Materials and Methods: Akala Palityahara Lepa and its modified gel were prepared using the same ingredients. Both formulations were evaluated for organoleptic characters, physicochemical parameters, microbial contamination, thin-layer chromatography (TLC), and antifungal activity against Candida albicans by the agar well diffusion method. Results: Both formulations showed acceptable physicochemical and microbiological quality. The gel had better spreadability, homogeneity, and water-soluble extractive value, while the Lepa showed higher viscosity and stronger antifungal activity. TLC confirmed the presence of gallic acid (Rf = 0.69) in both formulations. Conclusion: The modified gel showed good quality, was easy to apply, and demonstrated antifungal activity. It may serve as a convenient alternative to the traditional Lepa. Further experimental and clinical studies are required to confirm its effectiveness in the management of Akala Palitya.

Keywords: Lepa, Herbal gel, Topical drug delivery, Ayurveda, Semisolid formulations.