pharmaceutical technology.

The hydrogel was prepared using biocompatible polymers such as Gaur gum and Glycerin, chosen for their

soothing, hydrating, and stabilizing properties. The formulation process focused on achieving optimal

consistency and spreadability suitable for topical application.

This work highlights the potential of combining Ayurvedic principles with contemporary formulation science

to create innovative, effective, and natural therapeutic alternatives. Such integrative approaches could pave the

way for sustainable and culturally resonant pharmaceutical products.

Wound management has been a well-established domain within Ayurvedic medicine since ancient times,

(hemostatic/arresting bleeding), and Krimighna (antimicrobial/anti-parasitic) properties.

Ayurveda adopts a holistic approach to wound care, considering factors such as Dosha imbalance (Vata, Pitta,

and Kapha), tissue involvement, and the overall vitality (Ojas — essence of immunity and strength) of the

individual. Various topical applications, decoctions, Lepas (herbal pastes), and medicated oils or ghee

preparations have been traditionally employed to cleanse wounds, reduce inflammation, facilitate granulation,

and promote tissue regeneration. This time-tested approach continues to inspire contemporary interest in

formulating natural and integrative therapies for skin and soft tissue repair.

Sphatika (Potash alum, KAl

formulations for its haemostatic and antiseptic actions(Gajbhiye, 2025)

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Table 1. Properties of Sphatika(Sarma, 2015)

Simultaneously, advancements in drug delivery systems have positioned hydrogels as highly favourable

vehicles for topical wound applications. Hydrogels are three-dimensional, hydrophilic polymer networks

capable of retaining substantial quantities of water while maintaining structural integrity(M et al., 2021). Their

intrinsic characteristics—such as providing a moist wound environment, promoting autolytic debridement, and

facilitating localized, sustained drug release—make them ideal platforms for incorporating therapeutic agents

aimed at enhancing wound repair and preventing infection(Chandira, 2022)

This novel preparation seeks to enhance the bioactivity and application efficiency of Sphatika through a

modern hydrogel matrix, offering improved physicochemical properties, patient acceptability, and therapeutic

outcomes.

Safety Precautions:

All procedures were conducted under aseptic conditions in a clean laboratory environment. All glassware and

equipment were sterilized prior to use.

started melting at the temperature of 110°C. The heat was continued till all the water from Sphatika evaporated

and it turned anhydrous. At the end of the process, a dull white coloured Sphatika was formed. Later it was

taken out from the fire and kept for cooling. After sometime, the Shuddha Sphatika was collected by scraping

the iron pan which weighed 72g.

Step 2: Dispersal of Guar Gum and Addition of Glycerin

In a separate sterile beaker, 2 g of Guar gum was weighed. To this, 2 g of Glycerin was slowly added while

stirring continuously. Glycerin acted as a wetting and dispersing agent, helping to evenly hydrate the Guar gum

and prevent the formation of lumps. Stirring was continued until a smooth, lump-free dispersion was obtained.

Step 3: Incorporation of Sphatika Solution into Polymer Base

The previously prepared Sphatika solution was gradually added to the Guar gum–Glycerin dispersion with

constant stirring. The mixture was stirred thoroughly for 20–30 minutes to ensure homogeneity and uniform

distribution of the active compound. The hydrated dispersion was then allowed to rest for 30–60 minutes at

room temperature (25±2

formation. Typically, 5–7 g of the Borax solution was sufficient to obtain a hydrogel with optimal viscosity and

consistency. The addition was halted upon achieving a stable gel matrix.

Step 6: Final Homogenization and Storage

The final hydrogel formulation was gently stirred to ensure uniformity and then transferred into a sterile,

airtight glass container. The container was appropriately labelled and stored in a cool, dry place at ambient

temperature (25 ± 2°C), protected from light and microbial contamination.

Mild heat (40

while being non-greasy and easy to rinse(Huang et al., n.d.)

proliferation. The Katu (pungent) and Tikta (bitter) Rasas further add to its Shodhana (cleansing) and Lekhana

(scraping or debriding) actions, enabling the removal of necrotic debris and maintaining a clean wound bed

conducive to healthy granulation.

The Ushna Veerya (hot potency) of Sphatika enhances peripheral circulation, promoting tissue oxygenation

and nutrient delivery to the wound site. This thermogenic action is especially beneficial in wounds influenced

by Kapha and Vata Doshas, which are often characterized by sluggish healing and cold, pale tissues. By

stimulating local metabolic activity, Ushna Veerya (hot potency) helps in Ama Pachana (digestion or

elimination of toxic metabolic by-products) and initiates early inflammatory responses required for tissue

repair.

especially amidst rising concerns of antibiotic resistance. Its inherent antiseptic and antifungal actions inhibit

colonization of common wound pathogens, reducing the likelihood of secondary infections. Alongside, its

Ropana Karma (healing action) facilitates rapid epithelialization, collagen remodelling, and scar minimization.

Additional actions such as Grahi (absorbent), Sankochaka (contracting), Raktasravarodhini (anti-hemorrhagic),

and Shothahara (anti-inflammatory) further validate Sphatika's multidimensional wound-healing profile. By

absorbing excessive discharge, controlling inflammation, and ensuring clean wound margins, Sphatika

optimizes the healing microenvironment.

While Sphatika serves as the principal bioactive compound, the efficacy and functionality of the hydrogel are

significantly enhanced by the judicious selection of supportive excipients — Guar gum, Glycerin, and Borax

barrier, protecting the wound from external contaminants.

Glycerin(Chen et al., 2022), a trihydroxy alcohol, is incorporated into the formulation as a humectant and

plasticizer. It attracts and retains water molecules from both the environment and underlying tissues,

maintaining hydration at the wound interface. This property is especially important in chronic wounds where

dryness can delay epithelialization. Furthermore, Glycerin contributes to the spreadability and pliability of the

hydrogel, ensuring ease of application and comfort during use. Its mild antimicrobial effect further enhances

the overall bioactivity of the formulation.

Borax(Wang et al., 2022) functions primarily as a cross-linking agent, facilitating the gelation of Guar gum by

forming borate ester linkages with the vicinal hydroxyl groups of the polysaccharide. This chemical interaction

stabilizes the three-dimensional network of the hydrogel, giving it the desired consistency and mechanical

stability. Beyond its structural role, Borax possesses antiseptic properties, which augment the antimicrobial

effect of Sphatika, thereby offering dual antimicrobial coverage. The controlled incorporation of Borax ensures

dosing frequency, and enhanced therapeutic outcomes. The bio adhesive nature of the hydrogel supports

prolonged residence time at the wound site, while its occlusive yet breathable structure facilitates accelerated

healing.

Importantly, all excipients used—Guar gum, Glycerin, and Borax—are biocompatible, biodegradable, and

pharmaceutically acceptable, aligning the formulation with current demands for safe, non-toxic, and patient-

friendly dosage form. The incorporation of classical Ayurvedic ingredients into such vehicles allows for the

scientific validation and modernization of traditional medicine, contributing to a growing body of evidence

supporting integrative and holistic wound management practices.

The formulation exhibited a pH of 5.2, which falls within the physiological range of the skin (4.5–5.5),

mildly acidic environment that discourages microbial proliferation.

formulation:

and reducing scab formation.

minimizing damage to newly formed tissue.

prevents maceration and keeps the wound environment balanced.

Barrier Function: The hydrogel acts as a protective barrier against environmental contaminants and microbial

intrusion.

Ease of Application: The smooth consistency, aided by Glycerin, ensures uniform spreadability and patient

comfort.