Chinese Journal of Experimental Traditional Medical Formulae

Polycystic metabolic syndrome(PCMS) is a complex multifactorial endocrine and metabolic disorder that is associated with reproductive dysfunction, hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and alterations in lipid metabolism. This complexity of the disorder has led to the development of complimentary nutraceutical strategies using multiple plant-based bioactive compounds. In the current research work, a polyherbal uncoated nutraceutical tablet was formulated and evaluated that consisted of Trigonella foenum-graecum powder, Curcuma longa, Cicer arietinum powder, and Nigella sativa powder as principal nutraceutical compounds. Artocarpus heterophyllus powder was used as natural flavoring agent whereas Lens culinaris powder served as a natural diluent. Dry starch was used as disintegrating agent. Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC 101 ). and HPMC( Grade K4 ) based excipients played role of binders and matrix formers. Magnesium stearate (MGS) and talc served as lubricant and glidant respectively. Aspartame was added as sweetener and Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) as granulating solvent during wet granulation. The preparation process involved wet granulation of formulation followed by compression of granules into uncoated tablets. Evaluation of physical properties of granules included angle of repose, bulk density, tapped density, Carr's compressibility index and Hausner's ratio. Tablets were evaluated on the basis of their appearance, weight variation, thickness, hardness, friability, disintegration time and in vitro dissolution behavior. The optimized illustration formulation showed satisfactory flow properties, adequate mechanical strength, low friability and fast disintegration. The formulated tablet had acceptable tablet weight variation and satisfactory dissolution behavior. The use of different plant ingredients resulted in multi-component nutraceutical strategy to target metabolic and oxidative stress associated aspects of PCMS. Further standardization, stability, bioavailability studies and clinical trials are required to prove efficacy and safety of this nutraceutical product.