Medhya Rasayana Ghrita to Phytosome Approach-Centella asiatica and Bacopa monnieri Bioactive Enriched Fractions

Background

Traditional Ayurvedic formulations of Centella asiatica and Bacopa monnieri are commonly administered as churna or ghrita, often requiring prolonged high doses that reduce compliance in geriatric patients due to swallowing difficulties and gastrointestinal intolerance. Moreover, crude extracts exhibit poor solubility, low absorption, and instability, limiting their therapeutic effectiveness. Lipid-based delivery systems have been explored to overcome these challenges. Therefore, the present study aims to develop and evaluate phytosomal formulations of these plants to enhance bioavailability, improve brain delivery, and achieve better neuroprotective and cognitive effects at reduced doses compared to conventional extracts.

Materials and Methods

Phytosomes comprising bioactive rich fractions of traditionally well-known nootropic plants, Bacopa monnieri and Centella asiatica phytosome formulation were prepared, characterized, and evaluated for their neuroprotective and cognitive efficacy and potency using in vitro methods.

Results

Results of acetylcholinesterase inhibition at 78%, LOX inhibition potency at 48.67%, SOD activity at 28.39±5.84 and GSH potency at 42% found significant. The optimised batch showed particle size 169.2-185.3 nm with zeta potential values of-18.3 to-20.1 mV indicating higher stability.

Conclusion

Thus, phytosomes of selected botanical extracts were found to mitigate the risk factors associated with Alzheimer’s disease such as acetylcholinesterase, oxidative stress and inflammatory influences. Centella and Bacopa phytosomes as potential adjunctive or preventive interventions for cognitive decline, aligning traditional knowledge with modern pharmaceutical innovation.