A Critical Review on multifold potentiality of Prakshepa Dravyas in Ayurvedic dosage forms

The dosage forms in Ayurveda are given utmost importance. Our Acharyas offer a treasure of practical knowledge on the preparation of medicines and emphasized that the Samyoga (combination) of many drugs in a formulation greatly influence the healing power. One such category of drugs which are added in small quantities other than the main drugs so as to expand the field of activity of the main drugs are labelled as Prakshepa Dravyas. These Dravyas are distinctive to each Kalpana (dosage form). Although there are few drugs which are used as Prakshepa Dravyas irrespective of the dosage forms such as Madhu, Sita, Guda, Trikatu, Chaturjata, Taila, Ghrita, Lavana, Hingu, Kshara, Jeeraka, Shilajatu and Bhasmas of few metals. Prakshepa Dravyas can be considered as additives of modern pharmaceutical science which are limited only to pharmaceutical processing. Prakshepa Dravya acts as a synergizer and also attributes to the pharmacological action. They boost the patient acceptability by providing good taste, fragrance and appearance. The antioxidant and preservative properties are inherent in them. They also promote and augment the absorption of the drug by their bioenhancing activity. The present review aims to provide the comprehensive summary of Prakshepa Dravyas and also illustrates their multi dimensional activity