Exploration of therapeutic potential and evidence-based applications of Shwaskuthar Rasa: A scoping review

Abstract

Abstract Shwaskuthar Rasa (SKR) is an important herbo-mineral medicine of Ayurveda that has gained recognition for its potential therapeutic effects in respiratory diseases. The formulation combines processed mercury, sulfur, Vatsanabha (Aconitum chasmanthum Stapf ex Holmes), Tankana (borax), Manahshila (realgar), Pippali (Piper longum L.), Shunthi (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), and Maricha (Piper nigrum L.). The drug was also listed in the Ayush guidelines for Ayurveda practitioners in the context of COVID-19. This scoping review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the existing literature on SKR, by systematically organizing the available literature related to its quality, efficacy, safety, and potential therapeutic benefits. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, a systematic search strategy was employed to explore relevant published literature on SKR. Online databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Digital Helpline for Ayurveda Research Articles were searched using various combinations of keywords and Boolean operators. The online database search yielded 38 results, including 37 articles and 1 thesis. After an initial review, 27 non-duplicate records were retrieved, comprising 11 preclinical studies, 8 clinical studies, 6 review articles, and 2 case reports. The information retrieved was sorted, critically analyzed, and discussed in this review. The review found that SKR is a potent herbo-mineral drug with potential therapeutic benefits for respiratory diseases. It has been studied for its acute and chronic toxicity and its antimicrobial, antitussive, anti-allergic, and anti-asthmatic activities. The evidence suggests that SKR is a safe and effective medicine for treating asthma and related disorders.