Vol. 7, Issue 1, Part B (2025)

Introduction: Punarnava Arka, an Ayurvedic Arka Kalpana prepared from Boerhavia diffusa roots, is traditionally used for gastrointestinal, hepatic, urinary, and inflammatory disorders. Arka Kalpana is known for enhanced potency, better palatability.

Methods: Punarnava Arka was prepared following classical procedures from authenticated Punarnava roots and R.O. water. Five batches were prepared, and the formulation was subjected to accelerated stability testing at 40 ± 2°C and 75 ± 5% RH for six months. Physicochemical parameters (pH, specific gravity, refractive index, viscosity, saponification value, total solids, optical rotation, fatty oil, boiling range, TLC), organoleptic properties (colour, odour, taste, turbidity), and safety parameters (heavy metals, pesticide residues, microbial counts) were evaluated at 0, 3, and 6 months.

Results: Minor variations were observed in pH, viscosity, and boiling range, while other physicochemical and TLC profiles remained stable, indicating preserved chemical integrity. Organoleptic properties were consistent throughout the study. Safety assessments confirmed absence of detectable heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial contamination.

Discussion: The results demonstrate that Punarnava Arka maintains its physicochemical, organoleptic, and microbiological stability under accelerated conditions, with minimal volatilization of low-boiling components. These findings support a minimum shelf life of six months and validate the scientific stability of Punarnava Arka, emphasizing the relevance of Arka Kalpana in modern herbal pharmaceutics.