PREPARATION AND EVALUATION OF MEDICATED HERBAL CANDY OF MAHUA FOR SORE THROAT

Madhuca longifolia commonly known as Mahua belonging to family Sapotaceae, is an Indian tropical tree, known for its sweet flowers which are edible and used by tribals for its medicinal purpose. The known pharmacological activity of the flowers of Madhuca longifolia are anti- inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, analgesic, anti-pyretic and wound healing properties and has no side effect even after consumption of larger doses. The prevalence of throat infections is rising day-by-day due to the increasing pollution, bacterial infection, gastro- intestinal disease, injury, allergies etc. This study aimed to formulate and evaluate medicated herbal candy of Mahua flowers for sore throat. The candy was prepared using a combination of natural ingredients such as dried Mahua flowers, clove, cardamom, cinnamon, honey, corn syrup and lemon juice. The candies were evaluated for their physicochemical parameters and antibacterial properties. The antibacterial property was evaluated by measuring the Zone of Inhibition (ZOI) obtained from the experiment. The results showed that the candy had desirable taste, color, and texture and can be an alternative to conventional sore throat remedies. KEYWORDS: Madhuca longifolia, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial