Standardization of Herbal Drugs: Vacha (Acorus Calamus Linn.) and Dvipantara Vacha/Chopchini/China Root (Smilax China Linn.) with their In-Vitro Antimicrobial Potential

Abstract

Ayurveda is a part of the "science of life," which is the study of traditional medicinal plants that are used and found worldwide to treat and prevent various illnesses. There is increasing awareness and general acceptability of the use of herbal drugs in today’s modern practice. Around 80% of the world's population relies on herbal treatments and products for health, despite their unconventional uses. This growth in the usage; abuse and adulteration of herbal products has also resulted in consumers and manufacturers being disappointed, and in extreme cases, the repercussions are lethal. Standardization of herbal medicines is the process to ensure the efficacy and safety of medicinal plants. Vacha (Acorus calamus Linn.) and Dvipantara vacha/ Chopchini/ China root (Smilax china Linn.) are among the four varieties of Bhavaprakash Nighantu. Both drugs are used in disorders like epilepsy. Plants contain a huge diversity of chemical compounds known as secondary metabolites. This study investigates the phytochemicals and in-vitro antimicrobial potential of Vacha and Dvipantara vacha; particularly focusing on their antibacterial and antifungal activities against specified bacteria and fungi namely Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans.