Scientific Validation of Aristas

Aristas are fermented medicinal preparations, whereby alcohol acts as an extracting solvent for the chemical constituents in the drug. They are unique contribution of Ayurveda and a novel dosage form ensuring continuous hydroalcoholic extraction. Ayurveda and other traditional systems across the world served as drug which leads to be optimized into potent pharmaceuticals. There has been a surge in the demand for scientifically validated herbal medicines. At present, due to the advent of contemporary analytical techniques and advanced knowledge of chemistry of plant secondary metabolites, chemoprofiling (characteristic chemical pattern) is the need of the hour. In addition, optimized method of extraction, fermentation and the study of biotransformed products need to be carried out. This will validate its usage and will also serve as a source of novel pharmacophores for new drug discovery. In our lab, we have undertaken the work on scientific validation of Aristas by evaluating pre- and post-fermented decoction (aqueous) of Saraca asoca bark (Asoka) by high-performance thin-layer chromatography, standardization based on specific markers, modern methods of extraction to enhance the yield of bioactive marker, optimization of microwave-assisted extraction conditions for preparing lignan-rich extract from Asoka bark using Box–Behnken design; optimization of fermentation process of traditional Asok arista using Wickerhamomyces anomala using three-factor, three-level Box–Behnken design; evaluation of biotechnological changes and formation of new pharmacophores; biotransformation of lignan glycoside to its aglycone by Woodfordia fruticosa flowers; and subsequent quantification of compounds using a validated HPTLC method.