Abstract

Dr. Pratibha Muranal*, Dr. C. R. Honawad, Dr. Pavan Kulkarni

ABSTRACT

Background: Pravalagarbha Pottali is a classical herbo-mineral formulation described in Rasashastra, indicated in Pandu Roga, which can be correlated with iron deficiency anemia. Its unique preparation method and therapeutic potency make it an important formulation in Ayurvedic practice. Aim: To carry out the pharmaceutical preparation and analytical evaluation of Pravalagarbha Pottali. Materials and Methods: Raw materials including Pravala, Mukta, Kaparda, Shankha, Godanti, Shuddha Parada, Shuddha Gandhaka, and Swarna Tanutantu were procured and authenticated. The formulation was prepared according to classical Rasashastra procedures involving Shodhana, Marana, Kajjali preparation, Bhavana, and Pottali paka. The prepared formulation was evaluated using classical methods, organoleptic characters, physicochemical parameters such as ash value, acid insoluble ash, pH, and loss on drying. Instrumental analysis was carried out using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) mapping. Results: Classical Bhasma tests including Rekhapurnatva, Varitaratva, and Unnama were positive. During Pottali preparation, classical paka lakshanas such as Vyoma varna of Gandhaka, metallic sound, and burning of silk cloth were observed, indicating proper paka. Physico-chemical analysis revealed ash value 87% w/w, acid insoluble ash 2.5% w/w, pH 8.31, and loss on drying 1.6% w/w. XRD analysis confirmed the predominance of crystalline calcium carbonate in calcite form with high phase purity and crystallinity. EDS mapping demonstrated uniform distribution of mineral constituents within the formulation. Discussion: The study demonstrated successful preparation of Pravalagarbha Pottali according to classical methods. Classical and analytical findings confirmed proper incineration, stability, purity, and homogeneity of the formulation. The predominance of calcite phase indicates retention of crystalline calcium compounds even after thermal processing, validating the effectiveness of the pharmaceutical procedures. Conclusion: Pravalagarbha Pottali was successfully prepared through classical and modern analytical parameters. The study provides preliminary pharmaceutico-analytical data for quality control and may serve as a reference for future pharmacological and clinical evaluation of the formulation.