Pharmaceutical Preparation and In Vitro Evaluation of Narikela Khanda: A Classical Ayurvedic Formulation for Gastrointestinal Disorders

Background:Narikela Khanda, a classical Ayurvedic formulation mentioned in Bhaisajya Ratnavali (Śūla Roga Prakaraṇa), is indicated in Amlapitta and allied gastrointestinal disorders. It is a modification of Avaleha Kalpana, prepared with Narikela (Cocos nucifera), Ghṛita, Khanda Sharkara, and selected prakshepa dravyas. Traditionally, it is attributed with deepana-pachana, pitta-shamana, rakta-stambhana, and rasayana properties. From a biomedical perspective, gastrointestinal pathologies like peptic ulcers and bleeding disorders involve oxidative stress, necessitating scientific validation of antioxidant and safety potential of classical formulations. Objectives:To prepare Narikela Khanda as per classical guidelines and evaluate its in vitro safety (MTT assay) and antioxidant potential (ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP assays). Methods:Pharmaceutical preparation was carried out using authentic raw materials under controlled conditions. Cytotoxicity was assessed on L929 fibroblast cell lines using the MTT assay at concentrations ranging from 6.25–100 µg/mL. Antioxidant assays including ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP were performed at concentrations from 1.56–1000 µg/mL. Results:The formulation exhibited no cytotoxicity, with >90% cell viability in all tested concentrations, confirming its safety on normal fibroblast cells. Antioxidant assays demonstrated dose-dependent radical scavenging and reducing potential. IC₅₀ values were found to be 447.50 µg/mL (ABTS) and 735.82 µg/mL (DPPH). FRAP assay confirmed the electron-donating capacity of the formulation. Conclusion:Narikela Khanda was found to be safe in vitro and exhibited measurable antioxidant activity, validating its classical claims as a gastroprotective, haemostatic, and Rasayana formulation. These findings support its potential therapeutic role in oxidative stress–mediated gastrointestinal disorders like Amlapitta and Raktapitta. Further in vivo and clinical studies are recommended to substantiate its efficacy.