Evidence-based safety and efficacy of Ayurvedic herbo-metallic preparations containing gold, iron, and mercury with special reference to pediatrics

Abstract

Background: Safety and efficacy of herbo- metallic or mineral formulations in Ayurvedic therapeutics is subject of great concern in present era. Especially in paediatrics in which, a number of herbo-metallic formulations are found in practice for prevention as well as for the treatment of paediatric disorders. Among various herbo-metallic preparations mentioned in Ayurveda, gold, iron and mercurial formulations are more popular in paediatric practices. Present study has been conducted to highlight an evidence based safety and efficacy of metallic preparations in paediatrics. Material and Method: Subject related published research articles from reputed journals were searched through four online search engines Pubmed, Google scholar and Ayush research portal and DHARA online. The data of the articles were analysed to confirm their safety and efficacy in paediatrics. Results: Total 10 clinical studies showing safety and efficacy of Ayurvedic herbo-metallic preparations in paediatric disorders were compiled, which included 3 formulations of gold, 4 of iron and 3 mercurial formulations. Children suffering from Chronic tonsillitis, Iron deficiency anaemia, Sickle cell anaemia and Bronchial asthma were treated with significant effect and positive changes in haematological parameters. No any adverse or toxic effect of any of these formulations was noticed. Conclusion: Metallic preparations of gold, iron and mercury are found quite safe to the use in pediatric disorders with proper dose and adjuvant. They are also found effective in the diseases which are chronic and diffi cult to treat such as sickle cell anemia, seizure, and acute lymphoblastic leukemia.