ABSTRACT
Ayurveda, the Indian system of medicine offers many herbs and formulations for management of obesity. Baidyanath Bhawan Pvt. Ltd has designed a formulation, HFO-02, based on Ayurvedic literature.ObjectiveTo evaluate the efficacy of Herbal Formulation for Obesity (HFO-02) in overweight individuals.Materials & methodsWith approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee, a proof of concept study was carried out in overweight individuals (Body Mass Index, BMI ≥25.0 and ≤ 30.0 kg/m2), devoid of any endocrinological disorders. Tablet HFO-02 (500 mg) was administered to these individuals twice daily for 90 days, during which they were called at study site fortnightly. After stopping the treatment, they were further followed up for 30 days off-medication and the last follow up was scheduled on day 120. Anthropometric parameters were assessed at every visit, while biochemical parameters viz. lipid profile, blood sugar & insulin levels (both fasting and post prandial), C- reactive protein and adipocytokines (leptin & adiponectin) were estimated monthly.ResultsOf the 18 participants recruited in the study; 14 completed the study. HFO-02 did not show reduction in weight, however a significant decrease in the body circumference and skin fold was demonstrated. This decrease was maintained till day 120. The levels of all biochemical parameters were maintained and no adverse events were reported throughout the study.ConclusionTablet HFO-02 reduced body circumferences and skinfold thickness indicating its potential for obesity management.
ABSTRACT
Life expectancy has increased as a result of advancement in medical science. As a result the number of elderly in the population is also greater than ever and there is a need to tackle their problems. Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is one of the most common clinical manifestations affecting the elderly population. This is a transitional stage between the cognitive decline of normal ageing and the more serious decline in dementia. Timely intervention is awfully important in these cases as they are at a high risk of developing dementia. According to Sarangadhara Acharya, Medha (grasping and retention power) deteriorates after the fourth decade of life and this may be considered as a warning signal for further Smriti (memory) and Buddhi (intellect) deterioration, in the successive years. Ayurveda has a major role to play in this arena. The 'Medhya Rasayanas' are known to be beneficial to improve the intellectual e.g., Mandukparni Swaras, Yashtimadhu Churna with Ksheer, Guduchi Swaras, and Shankhapushpi Kalka. Medhya Rasayana drugs are used for prevention and treatment of mental disorders of all the age groups. These drugs promote the Intellect (Dhi) Retention power (Dhriti), Memory (Smriti). This review discusses about Medhya Rasayanas as a great player for prevention and management of age related cognitive decline.