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Effect of chyawanprash on cognitive, autonomic and respiratory parameters in college students

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  • Annai Medical College, Rajalakshmi Health City Dr.MGR Medical University

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Chyawanprash is an Ayurvedic formulation used in India since ages for its medicinal and nutritional value. In Ayurveda, chyawanprash is classified under the category of Rasayana, which is useful for general wellbeing, vitality and help in delaying ageing process. Though, there are few studies available on the usefulness of chyawanprash in the cognitive functions however, studies on management of dementia in human beings are still inadequate. In the light of this, the present study was undertaken to explore the memory boosting potential of chyawanprash. 128 healthy college students (75 females and 53 males) were recruited from the students of various courses conducted in Little Flower Institute of Medical Sciences and Research. Chyawanprash was given orally in a dose of one teaspoon full (appox. 15 g) twice a day for 150 successive days to the subjects in the test group. On the basis of the study it may be concluded that chyawanprash is helpful in improving of cognition i.e. alertness, attention and concentration; well being and the academic performance for college students. Therefore, regular use of chyawanprash has a potential to build up academic performance of students.
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Kumar Sai Sailesh et al / Int. J. Res. Ayurveda Pharm. 5(4), Jul - Aug 2014
435
Research Article
www.ijrap.net
EFFECT OF CHYAWANPRASH ON COGNITIVE, AUTONOMIC AND RESPIRATORY PARAMETERS IN
COLLEGE STUDENTS
Kumar Sai Sailesh1, Archana R2, Soumya Mishra3, Symphoria4, Mukkadan JK5*
1Little Flower Medical Research Centre (LFMRC), Angamaly, Kerala, India
2Associate Professor, Department of Physiology, Saveetha Medical College, Thandalam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
3Senior resident, Department of Physiology, JIPMER, Pondichery, India
4Vice Principal, St James College of Nursing, Chalakudi, Kerala, India
5Research Director and PhD Guide, Little Flower Medical Research Centre, Angamaly, Kerala, India
Received on: 24 /05/14 Revised on: 27/07/14 Accepted on: 22/08/14
*Corresponding author
Dr. Mukkadan JK, Research Director and PhD Guide, Little Flower Medi cal Research Centre, Angamaly, Kerala, India
E-mail: drmukkadan@gmail.com
DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.05489
ABSTRACT
Chyawanprash is an Ayurvedic formulation used in India since ages for its medicinal and nutriti onal value. In Ayurveda, chyawanprash is cl assified
under the cat egory of Rasayana, which is useful for general wellbeing, vitality and help in delaying ageing process.. Though, there are few studies
available on the usefulness of chyawanprash in the cognitive functions however, studies on management of dementia in human beings are still
inadequate. In the light of this, the present study was undertaken to explore the memory boosting potential of chyawanprash. 128 healt hy college
students (75 females and 53 males) were recruited from the students of various courses conducted in Little Flower Institute of Medical Sciences and
Research. Chya wanprash was given orally in a dose of one teaspoon full (appox. 15 g) twice a day for 150 successive days to the subject s in the test
group. On the basis of the study it may be concluded that chyawanprash is helpful in improving of cognition i.e. alertness, at tention and concentration;
well being and the academic performance for college students. Therefore, regular use of chyawanprash has a potential to build up academic
performance of students.
Keywords: Chyawanprash, Cognition, College students.
INTRODUCTION
Learning is an enduring change in behavior that results
from sensory information. Memory is the acquisition,
storage and retrieval of sensory information.1 From
physiological point of view, memory is divided into
explicit and implicit forms.2 Working or short-term
memory, also known as primary memory, registers and
retains incoming information for a short time (matter of
seconds) after its input.3 Long term memory is a function
of neo-cortex. Alzheimers disease is most common
neuro-degenerative disorder affecting memory areas.3
There are various herbs and Ayurvedic formulations
which are well documented to have memory boosting
actions. Chyawanprash is an Ayurvedic formulation used
in India since ages for its medicinal and nutritional value.
In Ayurveda, chyawanprash is classified under the
category of Rasayana, which is useful for general
wellbeing, vitality and help in delaying ageing process4-5.
It is being used long before the clinical importance of
vitamins, minerals and antioxidants was known.
Chyawanprash is a complex mixture of multiple
Ayurvedic ingredients. The health benefits of the
ingredients have been well documented scientifically. The
combination of these ingredients used in Chyawanprash
will provide better health benefits. In addition to the other
health benefits, it is helpful in promoting digestion and
helps relieve cough and other common respiratory tract
infections6- 9.
Aim and objective
Though, there are few studies available on the usefulness
of chyawanprash in the cognitive functions however,
studies on management of dementia in human beings are
still inadequate. In the light of this, the present study was
undertaken to explore the memory boosting potential of
chyawanprash.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Chyawanprash (Chy)
Zandu Sona Chandi Chyawanprash Plus was used in the
present study, which was manufactured by Hemma herbs
Pvt Ltd, India, licensed user of Emami Ltd, Kolkata,
India.
Study design and participants
The study was approved by Institutional Ethics
Committee of Little Flower Hospital and Research
Centre, Angamaly and St James Nursing College,
Chalakudy, India. A written, informed consent was
obtained from all the participants. The study was carried
out in accordance with the Ethical Guidelines for
Biomedical Research on Human Participants, 2006 by
the Indian Council of Medical Research and the
Declaration of Helsinki, 2008. The clinical study was
conducted at Little Flower Medical Research Centre,
Angamaly and St. James College of Nursing, Chalakudy,
Kerala, India. 128 healthy college students (75 females
and 53 males) were recruited from the students of various
courses conducted in Little Flower Institute of Medical
Sciences and Research. The subjects were recruited via
advertisement on notice-boards. The advertisements
includes the information that the relationship between the
Chyawanprash and health benefits. A detailed medical
history was obtained from all participants by a semi-
Kumar Sai Sailesh et al / Int. J. Res. Ayurveda Pharm. 5(4), Jul - Aug 2014
436
structured interview and by filling out a general socio-
demographic and medical questionnaire and they
underwent a standard physiological examination, which
enabled us to exclude individuals involved in
drug/alcohol abuse, and those taking any kind of
prolonged medication or suffering from chronic
debilitating disorders. The willing participants were
randomized into Control (n = 53) (35 females and 18
males) and test group (n = 75) (40 females and 35 males)
by simple randomization method using random numbers
generated through computer. Chyawanprash was given
orally in a dose of one teaspoon full (appox. 15 g) twice a
day for 150 successive days to the subjects in the test
group.
Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria
Inclusion criteria
Students with normal average height and weight and
without any major diseases were included in the study.
Exclusion criteria
Students with any serious diseases, not willing to give
consent, drug/alcohol abuse, suffering from Chronic
debilitating disorders and taking prolonged medication
were excluded from the study.
Cognitive Parameters
Short term memory
Short term memory performance reflects alertness,
attention and concentration of the subjects. In this study to
observe the cognitive functions, free- recall task of words,
numbers and pictures in six sessions were performed10-11.
These test parameters were earlier been studied in one of
the study conducted to see the difference in short term
memory in healthy males and females12. On day 0 before
the administration of chyawanprash, this task was
performed in both control and test groups. From day 1,
one teaspoon full of chyawanprash twice a day was given
orally to test group for 150 days. On 151st day, the task
was performed. The results were compared to observe
memory boosting effect of chyawanprash. At the
beginning plain paper was given to all the subjects in
which they were asked to write their age, sex and any
history of cognitive disorder or head injury. To test the
short-term memory of the subjects, six sessions were
planned. First three sessions were prepared with ten
words, numbers and pictures. In the first session a list of
ten words were displayed. Ten words were carefully
selected to ensure that they were unrelated. In second
session, ten random numbers were displayed; and in third
session, ten pictures were displayed which are unrelated.
The subjects were asked to recall the displayed words,
numbers and pictures. Numbers of the correct items
recalled were measured. In each session, ten words,
numbers and pictures were displayed to all the subjects
for one minute and one minute break was given where
words or numbers or pictures are not displayed and
discussions was done with the subjects about the sports
and politics to prevent them to recall the words. After this
one minute break, in each session all the subjects were
provided with one minute time to write the words,
numbers and name of the pictures displayed on a paper.
Similarly, the last three sessions were prepared with
twenty words, numbers and pictures in each session and
similar technique was followed. At the end of each
session, papers were collected from the participants.
Academic Performance
Performance of students in theory examinations was
compared between test and control groups at the end of
the study.
Autonomic and Respiratory Parameters
Blood pressure, pulse rate were measured and compared
between test and control groups. Po2 was recorded by
Pulse oximetry13. Data was analyzed by SPSS 20.0, using
Independent sample t test.
RESULTS
The results of effect of chyawanprash on cognitive,
autonomic and respiratory parameters in college students
are presented in Table 1 to Table 5. Table 1 showing
demographic information and Table 2 to 5 showing
changes in cognition, autonomic, respiratory parameters
before and after administration of chyawanprash. Figure 1
showing comparison of academic performance between
control and test groups.
Table 1: Mean age of t he subjects in control and test groups
Group
Number of participants
Age
Control
53
19.56 ± 1.59
Test
75
19.68 ± 1.53
Total
128
19.63 ± 1.55
Table 2: Mean values of free recall of words, numbers and pictures in six rounds before administratio n of chyawanprash in both the groups
Round number (Short te rm memory test)
Control
Test
p value
Round 1 (10 words)
8.62 ± 1.03
7.84 ± 1.25
< 0.001*
Round 2 (10 numbers)
7.52 ± 1.69
6.99 ± 1.59
0.073
Round 3 (10 pictures)
8.54 ± 0.64
9.01 ± 0.60
< 0.001*
Round 4 (20 words)
14.83 ± 1.88
14.71 ± 1.75
0.713
Round 5 (20 numbers)
15.25 ± 2.76
15.01 ± 2.07
0.584
Round 6 (20 pictures)
17.04 ± 2.19
17.07 ± 1.90
0.938
*P value < 0.001 i s statistically significant
Kumar Sai Sailesh et al / Int. J. Res. Ayurveda Pharm. 5(4), Jul - Aug 2014
437
Table 3: Mean values of Blood Pressure, Pulse rate and Po2 in control and test groups before administration of chyawanprash in
both the groups
Parameter
Control
Test
p value
Po2
96.64 ± 2.71
95.55 ± 2.79
0.030
Pulse rate
93.42 ± 7.17
87.59 ± 13.28
0.005
Systolic Blood Pressure
132.29 ± 19.09
125.57 ± 18.64
0.050
Diastolic Blood Pressure
79.37 ± 11.26
77.32 ± 11.99
0.335
P value < 0.001 is statistically significant
Table 4: Mean values of free recall of words, numbers and pictures in six rounds after administratio n of chyawanprash
Round number (short te rm memory test)
Control
Test
p value
Round 1 (10 words)
8.32 ± 1.28
9.35 ± 0.90
< 0.001*
Round 2 (10 numbers)
6.74 ± 1.67
7.80 ± 1.84
0.001
Round 3 (10 pictures)
8.08 ± 2.25
9.36 ± 0.99
< 0.001*
Round 4 (20 words)
15.13 ± 2.65
17.58 ± 2.03
< 0.001*
Round 5 (20 numbers)
14.49 ± 2.85
15.69 ± 2.83
0.020
Round 6 (20 pictures)
15.74 ± 2.55
18.93 ± 1.33
< 0.001*
*P value < 0.001 i s statistically significant
Table 5: Mean values of BP, Pulse rate and Po2 in control and test groups after chyawanprash administration
Variable
Control
Test
p value
Po2
95.62 ± 4.12
97.07 ± 2.47
0.015
Pulse rate
86.94 ± 8.04
85.07 ± 8.51
0.213
Systolic Blood Pressure
127.60 ± 13.26
118.76 ± 10.74
< 0.001*
Diastolic Blood Pressure
76.98 ± 7.43
73.70 ± 8.71
0.028
*P value < 0.001 i s statistically significant
Table 6: Mean values of academic performance (pe rcentage of marks in theory examinations) i n control and test groups
Variable
Control
Test
p value
Academic performance
46.45±14.69
61.64±11.72
<0.001
P value <0.001: statistically significant
DISCUSSION
According to the Charaka Samhita, Chyawanprash is "the
foremost of all rasayanas"14. Various plants and their
isolated phytochemicals have been used for treatment of
various disorders related to learning and memory15.
Chyawanprash is a traditional Ayurvedic formulation,
useful for general wellbeing, vitality, vigor and for
rejuvenation. In an earlier study, administration of
chyawanprash for 15 consecutive days significantly
improved the memory of aged mice when compared to
young mice. Chyawanprash increases cholinergic
transmission by inhibiting acetylcholineesterase. It also
decreases free radical generation and increased
scavenging of free radicals.16 In the present study,
chyawanprash was administered to 75 college students
and their cognition i.e. alertness, attention and
concentration and respiratory parameters were recorded
before and after administration. It has been observed that
their cognition improved significantly when compared
with control group in recall task of words, number and
picture. The vitals such as blood pressure, pulse,
oxygenation were also recorded which were within
normal range. Their academic performance in percentage
of marks in theory examination was significantly
improved when compared with control group. Zandu
Sona Chandi Chyawanprash Plus is enriched with natural
nootropic agents (NNA) like Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri),
Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis), Ashwagandha
(Withania somnifera), Jyotishmati (Celastrus
paniculatus), Almond (Prunus amygdatus), Guduchi
(Tinospora cordifolia) etc along with other potential
Ayurvedic ingredients. It is being prepared from multiple
Ayurvedic ingredients majority of which help in
fortifying the natural immunity, thus protecting from
common day to day infection such as cough and cold.
Besides immunity, presence of NNA helps in improving
memory, concentration and in keeping the mind alert.
CONCLUSION
Basis the study it may be concluded that chyawanprash is
helpful in improving cognition i.e. alertness, attention and
concentration; well being and the academic performance
for college students. Therefore, regular use of
chyawanprash has a potential to build up academic
performance of students.
ACKNOWLEDGEME NT
We acknowledge with thanks to E mami Limited, Kolkata, India for their
support to provide free samples of Zandu Sona Chandi Chyawanprash
Plus for study. We also acknowledge the students of St. James College
of Nursing and Little Flower Institute of Medical Sciences, Angamaly,
India for their acti ve participation and support.
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Cite this article as:
Kumar Sai Sailesh, Archana R, Soumya Mishra, Symphoria, Mukkadan
JK. Effect of Chyawanprash on cognitive, autonomic and respiratory
parameters in college students. Int. J. Res. Ayurveda Pharm.
2014;5(4):435-438 http://dx.doi.org/10.7897 /2277-4343.05489
Source of support: Nil, Conflict of interest: None Declared
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Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid19) occurs after exposure to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARSCoV2). For persons who are at high risk of exposure, the standard of care is personal protection from getting infected. Whether Ayurvedic rasayana drug like Chyawanprash can prevent symptomatic infection in frontline health care workers is unknown. Objective: To evaluate the effect of the combination of Chyawanprash and Standard Preventive Regimen compared to the use of Standard Preventive Regimen alone on the proportion of RT-PCR confirmed COVID 19 infections among frontline healthcare workers (HCWs). Methods: An open label randomized controlled trial was conducted in the HCWs between 25 to 60 years age currently working in an environment with chance of direct exposure to COVID 19 cases. The interventions to be compared in this trial were Standard Preventive Regimen as per institutional guidelines and based on their roles (Group I) and Ayurvedic Intervention viz., Chyawanprash 12 g twice for 30 days from day of randomization plus Standard Preventive Regimen (Group II). The incidence of RT PCR confirmed COVID19 cases in both groups, was the primary outcome measure. Evaluation of the safety of the study drug (by any statistically significant change in various biochemical and hematological parameters and occurrence of any adverse drug reactions); incidence of any other infective diseases (bacterial / viral / fungal / etc.) like upper respiratory tract illness during the study period and any change in the immunoglobulins like IgG, IgM and IgE and inflammatory markers like TNF alpha, IL6 and IL10 were the secondary outcome measures. Results: Out of 193 participants who completed the study, no participant in both groups was COVID 19 positive at the end of one month. In post intervention follow up, 4 subjects in Group I and 2 subjects in Group II were COVID 19 positive. No adverse drug reaction or any serious adverse event was reported during the study. No clinically significant change in the safety parameters was observed before and after the study. Statistically significant rise in Serum IgG level was seen in Group II but other inflammatory and immune markers did not show statistically significant difference. Conclusion: Chyawanprash was well tolerated by all the participants in the intervention group but to prove its adaptogenic effect and efficacy as an add-on to the standard care in preventing the occurrence of COVID 19, clinical trial for longer duration with larger sample size is needed. Trial registration: Clinical Trials Registry of India vide CTRI/2020/05/025275 dated 20/05/2020 Date of IEC approval: 19.5.2020 Keywords: Adaptogen, Ayurveda, Health personnel, Prophylaxis, Rasayana, SARS CoV 2
... An Observational study(OS) in a chest and allergy centre, New Delhi on 40 patients, significant decrease was seen in IgE level in normal, allergic, viral and bacterial infection group after supplementation with CP. 77 Another OS among 50 smokers showed significant improvement in Peak expiratory flow rate(PEFR), spirometry results and QoL index. 78 An RCT among 128 college students showed that CP improves the cognitive functions. 79 A study on the effect of CP in chronic tonsillitis made known the affirmative influence on tonsils lymphoid tissues. ...
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Background: COVI9-19 is a global pandemic tightening its grip across the globe. Different systems of medicine are doing rigorous works in finding out ways to combat the SARS-CoV-2. Researches and previous pandemics have demonstrated the potential of Traditional systems like Ayurveda in managing viral infections. Aim: To explore the scientific rationale behind the AYUSH-Ayurveda guidelines and its possibility in prophylaxis or Management or post-infection rehabilitation against COVID 19. Materials and Methods: Ayurveda classics were searched for relatable pathogenesis, treatment, preventive and dietary advice. An electronic search was done in PubMed/Medline, Google Scholar, and PMC using specific keywords related to AYUSH guidelines, and the data were evaluated. Result: The data from Ayurveda classics and studies from electronic databases evidenced the possible potential of the AYUSH-Ayurveda guideline in the management strategy of COVID-19. The results suggest that the guidelines take cares of multiple domains like-providing the first line of defence at the portal of entry (nasal oil installation, oil pulling, and steam inhalation); Measures to prevent mental stressors through Yoga, Pranayama, and meditation practice; Measures to maintain GUT-LUNG Axis homeostasis (Drinking Hot water & Spice usage in food and beverages) and immune modulation through Rasayana (rejuvenators) like Chyavanprasha. All the guidelines focus on improving the immune response of the host which is necessary during pandemic times. Conclusion: The current review establishes the four domains of probable action of AYUSH Ayurveda guidelines. The cost-effective, simple and time tested practices may be a possible way of integration along with the present social distancing norms and existing Government strategies in the fight against COVID-19. The potential of Ayurveda can also play a pivotal role in flattening the curve by modulation of the host immune system.
... Tinospora cordifolia, Withania somnifera, Phyllanthus Emblica, Mesua ferrea, Cyperus rotundus Nymphea nuchal, Pueraria tuberose, Aqualaria agallocha, Desmodium gangeticum present in CP improve CNS functions as these drugs possess potent antioxidant and anti-in lammatory properties. This is supported by RCT conducted on 128 school going students, and CP appreciably improved cognitive functions to concentration, attention and alertness (Sailesh et al., 2014). Ingredients of CP such as Phyllanthus Emblica, Boerhavia diffusa, Inula racemose, Curcuma zedoaria, Sida cordifolia, Solanum virginianum and Tribulus Terrestris are well-known to revitalize and reinstate the functions of the cardiovascular system. ...
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Chyavanprash a known Ayurvedic formulation formulated by sage Chyavan to impart youth, charm, strength & prolonged life. It is very much valued for possessing numerous health benefits with respect to the preventive, curative and promotive aspects of health. Chyavanprash can be consumed throughout the year. Several scientific evidences support its wholesome and safe healthy tonic status that is favorable for all age groups and genders alike. In modern days, it has gained mammoth popularity throughout the world. CP is prepared with Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) as a prime drug with other nutrient rich herbs help to preserve stamina, strength and vitality. Various pre clinical (in vivo & in vitro), Experimental, Analytical and clinical studies conducted on CP and its individual components revealed its various pharmacological activities most of which are suggestive of immunity enhancer and health supplements. Hence an attempt is made in the present paper to find out and explore the scientific evidences based on therapeutic potential of CP with respect to immunity and health supplements and make evidences available to the common people to combat the COVID-19 menace effectively.
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Ayurvedic Medicine, or Ayurveda, is a traditional Indian health care system. Research into the medicinal plants utilised in Ayurveda is becoming a global endeavour, and large pharmaceutical companies are investing in novel drug discovery from Ayurvedic sources as a number of clinical studies have demonstrated efficacy of natural products from Ayurvedic plant extracts against common ailments such as arthritis and diabetes. Ayurvedic medicine and its components have been well described in the past, but this book represents a comprehensive source on the biochemistry and mechanisms of the pharmacological effects of natural products from Ayurvedic sources. This book is a valuable resource for researchers in natural products and alternative sources of bioactive compounds in drug discovery, as well as pharmaceutical experts and those in industry.
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The “Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19)” is caused by “Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)”, a newly discovered member of the Coronaviridae family of viruses which is a highly communicable. There is no effective medical treatment till date for Coronavirus disease hence prevention is the best way to keep disease away. Rasayana proved to be highly efficacious and cost effective for the Prevention and Control of viral infections when vaccines and standard therapies are lacking. Rasayana Chikitsa is one of the eight branches of Ashtanga Ayurveda which helps to maintain healthy life style. Rasayana improves immunity and performs many vital functions of human body. Vyadhikshamatva that is immune mechanism of the body is involved in Prevention of the occurrence of a new disease and it also decreases the virulence and progression of an existing disease. In COVID-19 the Respiratory system mainly get affected which is evident from its symptoms like cold, cough and breathlessness. Here the drugs help in enhancing immune system and strengthening functions of Respiratory system can be useful. For this purpose, the Rasayana like Chyavanprasha, Agastya Haritaki, Pippali Rasayana, Guduchi, Yashtimadhu, Haridra, Ashwagandha, Tulsi are used. Rasayana working on Respiratory system are best for Prevention of Coronavirus and boosting immune system. Rasayana Chikitsa can be effective in the Prevention as well as reducing symptoms of COVID-19.
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Background and Objectives: The studies on relationship between different phases of menstrual cycle and pulse rate and Sp02 changes in healthy women of Kerala are inadequate. So, this preliminary study was plan to report the same. Material and Methods: The present study was performed in twenty healthy women of Kerala, age ranging from 20-40 (mean age 27+/- 61054). Spo2 and pulse rate were recorded with pulse - oximeter in different phases of menstrual cycle and analysis of data was done by spss 20.0. Results: Variations of pulse rate and Spo2 in different phases of menstrual cycle are not statistically significant at p > 0.05. Conclusion: it was observed that there was slight increase in pulse rate in ovulatory phase and slight increase in Sp02 in secretory phase, though it is not statistically significant. It may be due to small sample size. Hence this study certainly merits continuing the work with more investigations in the field. Janaki Medical College Journal of Medical Sciences (2013) Vol. 1 (2): 65-69 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jmcjms.v1i2.9271
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Journal of Nobel Medical College Vol. 2, No.2 Issue 4 May-October 2013 Page 57-61 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jonmc.v2i2.8807
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 Chyawanprash is an Ayurvedic formulation which is used traditionally to increase vitality, vigor and for delaying the aging process. The present study sought to explore the beneficial effects of chyawanprash on cognitive function of aged mice.  In the present study, chyawanprash (CHY) was administered orally in two concentrations (1 and 2% w/w of the diet) for 15 successive days to 17 different groups of young (8 groups) and aged (9 groups) mice. After 15 days of chyawanprash administration, the memory of the animals was assessed using Morris water maze and elevated plus maze. The brain acetylcholinesterase activity (AChE), the levels of brain thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and reduced glutathione (GSH) were also estimated.  The administration of chyawanprash (1 and 2% w/w) for 15 consecutive days significantly improved the memory of aged mice when compared to young mice. This Ayurvedic formulation decreased the acetylcholinesterase activity in aged mice, consequently leading to increased cholinergic transmission. Furthermore, there was a significant decrease in brain TBARS and increase in GSH levels of aged animals after chyawanprash administration, thereby indicating decreased free radical generation and increased scavenging of free radicals respectively.  Chyawanprash may be looked upon as a useful memory enhancer in aged animals by virtue of its antioxidant effect, pro-cholinergic action, improved learning ability, and increased retention capacity.
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Hepatoprotective activity of Emblica officinalis (EO) and Chyavanaprash (CHY) extracts were studied using carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4)) induced liver injury model in rats. EO and CHY extracts were found to inhibit the hepatotoxicity produced by acute and chronic CCl(4) administration as seen from the decreased levels of serum and liver lipid peroxides (LPO), glutamate-pyruvate transaminase (GPT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Chronic CCl(4) administration was also found to produce liver fibrosis as seen from the increased levels of collagen-hydroxyproline and pathological analysis. EO and CHY extracts were found to reduce these elevated levels significantly, indicating that the extract could inhibit the induction of fibrosis in rats.
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Chyawanprash is an ancient Indian dietary supplement containing vitamin C (34 mg/100 g) derived from amla (Emblica officinalis). In addition, Chyawanprash also contains several other herbal products. The present study was designed to compare the effects of vitamin C with those of Chyawanprash. Ten normal healthy adult male volunteers (age 20-32 years) participated in the 16-week study. They were placed randomly in either the Chyawanprash group (n = 5) or vitamin C group (n = 5). Those in the former received 15 g/d of Chyawanprash while those in the latter received 500 mg/d vitamin C during the first 8 weeks of the study. For the next 8 weeks, no supplement was given. For each individual, an oral glucose tolerance test was performed, and lipoprotein profile in peripheral serum samples was determined at 0 weeks, 4 weeks, 8 weeks, 12 weeks and 16 weeks. In the Chyawanprash group, the 8 weeks Vs 0 weeks value (mean +/- S.D.) respectively for various indices which were significantly different were fasting plasma glucose (100.2 +/- 5.58 mg/dl vs 116.2 +/- 11.6 mg/dl), area under 2-h plasma glucose curve (245.9 +/- 15.13 mg.dl-1.h vs 280.8 +/- 37.09 mg.dl-1.h), HDL cholesterol (53.2 +/- 4.56 mg/dl vs 42.7 +/- 7.17 mg/dl), LDL cholesterol (82.4 +/- 8.80 mg/dl vs 98.26 +/- 12.07 mg/dl), LDL/HDL ratio (1.56 +/- 0.28 vs 2.38 +/- 0.63). In the Vitamin C group, only the LDL/HDL ratio was significantly lower at 8 weeks than at 0 weeks (1.99 +/- 0.44 vs 2.29 +/- 0.43). All the variables that changed significantly were no longer significantly different from the 0 weeks value at 16 weeks. Chyawanprash reduces postprandial glycemia in the oral glucose tolerance test and reduces blood cholesterol level to a significantly greater extent than vitamin C.
Ganong's review of Medical physiology. 24 th edition: New Delhi; Tata Mc Graw-Hill Education Pvt Ltd
  • E Kim
  • Susan M Barrett
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Kim E Barrett, Susan M Barman, Scott Boitano, Heddwen L Brooks. Ganong's review of Medical physiology. 24 th edition: New Delhi; Tata Mc Graw-Hill Education Pvt Ltd; 2012. p. 283.
Best and Taylor's Physiological basis of medical practice
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OP Tendon, Y Tripathi. Best and Taylor's Physiological basis of medical practice.13 th edition. Haryana;