Guda Kalpana (Jaggery Confections) : A Synoptic Overview

Abstract

The Ayurvedic system of medicine has described various herbal formulations in the treatment of diseases, which plays an important role in modern health care and curing various ailments or diseases. Bhaishajya Kalpana is an integral part of Ayurveda which deals with the processing methods of drugs and their various dosage forms. Guda Kalpana [Jaggery Confection] is one among secondary formulation prepared with Guda. Reference of Gudapaka Kalpana was first time mentioned in Chakradatta. The preparations with more quantity of Guda are known as Guda Kalpana. This formulation can be prepared in 2 ways: Agni Siddha and Anagni Siddha. Few examples of Guda Kalpana are Kalyanaka Guda and Shatavari Guda etc. The 'Guda Paka Kalpana' can be either in 'Avaleha' [Confections] form or 'Khanda' [Granules] form, but mostly they are present in the form of bigger pills (Modaka). The confirmative tests of Guda Kalapna are almost similar to that of Avaleha such as Tantumatvam, Apsumajjanam etc. These formulations are advised to dissolve in mouth itself, as they are intend to provide better drug absorption through the oral cavity. Gudapaka Kalpana can be broadly included under confectionery dosage form which has strong potential to overcome compliance problems. In the present review an effort is made to compile all the information related to Guda Kalpana including its definition, various references, examples, etc. As Guda is one among the best sweetening agent, and good binding agent, Guda Kaplana and its formulations have better palatability and longer shelf life than any other Ayurvedic dosage form.