Herbal and Nutraceuticals

Grapes contain beneficial bioflaVonoid-like ingredients called "proanthocyanidins" (PCOs or OPCs). Proanthocyanidins are believed to protect cell membranes by neutralizing particularly harmful free radicals called "lipid peroxides". PCOs may strengthen the capillary walls and skin. It has been reported to inhibit the release of inflammatory chemicals, such as histamine and prostaglandins. PCOs have been used in allergies and asthma because of their reported ability to slow histamine release from mast cells. Resveratrol, a molecule has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may protect against COPD and asthma (Wood 2010). A cell culture study found that resveratrol inhibited the release of all measured inflammatory mediators (cytokines) from immune cells extracted from the alveoli of smokers and non-smokers with COPD. Moreover, while resveratrol attenuates the release of inflammatory mediators in airway smooth muscle cells, it preserves signaling of a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which may be protective against emphysema. More recently, the anti-inflammatory effects of resveratrol have been associated with inhibition of the transcription factor NF-kB, possibly mediated via the inhibition of l-kB kinase.

Resveratrol has several activities that may account for its possible cardioprotective action. These include inhibition of the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), inhibition of smooth muscle cell proliferation and inhibition of platelet aggregation. Resveratrol also has been found to exert a strong inhibitory effect on superoxide anion and hydrogen peroxide production by macrophages stimulated by lipopolysaccharides or phorbol esters. It also increases nitric oxide and decreases lactate dehydrogenase levels in the carotid blood and effective against ischemia-reperfusion induced arrythmias. Triterpenes roxburghiadiol A and B isolated from this plant Aglaia roxburghiana has the potent anti-inflammatory activity and mast cell degranulation induced by A. roxburghiana extracts and the triterpenes.

Pharmacokinetics: From animal and limited human studies,it appears that resveratrol is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract following its ingestion. Resveratrol is found in the form of a glucuronide conjugate after crossing the small intestine and entering the blood circulation. In case of human, five metabolites of resveratrolTiave been detected in urine, such as resveratrol monosulphate, two isomeric forms of resveratrol monoglucuronide, dihydroresveratrol monosulphate and dihydroresveratrol monoglucuronide. 56% sulphate and glucuronide conjugates excrete through urine (Baur and Sinclair,2006)

Mahadrakkharist content of grapes is partly responsible for the therapeutic effect. The Daily recommended dose of resveratrol is 8 mg/kg body weight. Each 5 ml syrup contains 36 mg resveratrol as a fluid extract. So the daily recommended dose is-

• Children under 12 years: 1-2 teaspoonfuls (5-10 ml) 2 times daily after meal.
• Above 12 years and Adult: 3-4 teaspoonfuls (15-20 ml) 2 times daily after meal for 4-8 weeks or as directed by the physician.

It should be used cautiously in patients taking anticoagulants such as warfarin, aspirin, non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), ACE inhibitors or anti-platelet agents. Based on animal studies, grape seed may increase the risk of bleeding. PCOs may theoretically alter the effectiveness of prescribed blood pressure medications that are angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors.

There are no side effects associated with the use of Drakkha in the above-mentioned therapeutic doses. Drakkha has been used safely as an ayurvedic medicine for hundreds of years. But in very rare case stomach pain, headache and an allergic reaction have been reported.

Women who are pregnant or nursing are advised to consult with a physician prior to use Mahadrakkharist. Although medical literature has no report of adverse effects related to fetal development during pregnancy or to infants who are breast-fed.

Drakkha is well tolerated but caution should be taken in hypertension, liver disease, alcohol dependence and diabetes. Patients with any medical conditions should talk to their doctors before taking Mahadrakkharist. Lactobacillus products (e.g. Probiotics) should be taken 2 or more hours apart.

Keep in a cool, dry place & away from direct sunlight. Keep the medicine out of the reach of children