Assessment of Microbial Stability of Shalaparni [Desmodium Gangeticum (L.) Dc.] Used in the Management of Kasa (Cough) Under Different Temperature and Humidity Conditions

Abstract

Shalaparni (Desmodium gangeticum (L.) DC.) is an important Dashamoola drug traditionally indicated in the management of Kasa (cough) and other Tridoshaja disorders. Kwatha (decoction) is prepared freshly before administration; therefore, the drug is stored as Yavakuta (coarse powder). Assessing its microbiological stability during storage is essential for ensuring the quality and safety of the freshly prepared decoction. Aim: To evaluate the microbial stability of Shalaparni Panchanga Yavakuta and the microbiological quality of freshly prepared Kwatha at different time intervals under varying temperature and humidity conditions. Materials and methods: Ten kilograms of Shalaparni Panchanga (whole plant) collected from Sasoi Dam, Jamnagar, were shade-dried, processed into Yavakuta, and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Kwatha was freshly prepared by reducing 16 parts of water to one-eighth. Monthly microbiological evaluation was conducted for 12 months using Gram staining, 10% potassium hydroxide wet mount, aerobic bacterial culture, and fungal culture. Temperature ranged from 22.2–38°C and relative humidity from 34–80%. Results: Capsulated Gram-negative rods identified as Enterobacter species were detected during initial examination of the stored Yavakuta identified as commensals, while fungal elements were absent. All subsequently prepared Kwatha samples showed no detectable bacterial or fungal growth throughout the 12-month study despite seasonal variations. Conclusion: Shalaparni Panchanga Yavakuta maintained satisfactory microbiological quality under the studied storage conditions. Freshly prepared Kwatha remained free from detectable bacterial and fungal contamination, supporting the traditional practice of storing the drug as Yavakuta and preparing the decoction freshly before administration.