Herbal formulations are preparations made using one or more medicinal herbs, either in raw or processed form, to treat or prevent diseases.

Classification

Based on Dosage Forms:

• Solid Dosage Forms:
  • Powders (Churna)
  • Tablets (Vati/Gutika)
  • Capsules
• Liquid Dosage Forms:
  • Decoctions (Kwath/Kashayam)
  • Infusions (Phant)
  • Tinctures / Extracts
  • Syrups (Sharbat)
  • Medicated Oils (Taila)
• Semi-Solid Dosage Forms:
  • Ointments / Creams
  • Gels / Pastes (Lepa)

Types of Herbal Formulations

Based on Origin or Source:

• Classical formulations – These are described in traditional texts like Charaka Samhita or Bhavaprakasha. Examples include:
  • Churna (powders)
  • Kwatha (decoctions)
  • Asava-Arishta (fermented preparations)
  • Taila (medicated oils)
• Proprietary formulations – These are developed by companies using traditional knowledge but with modern R&D.
  For example, a tablet made from Ashwagandha and Shatavari extract for stress relief.

Based on Purpose:

• Herbal medicines
• Herbal cosmetics.

Basic Principles of Herbal Formulation

• The first step is selection of herbs – based on their therapeutic activity, compatibility, and synergy.
• Then come adjuvants and excipients – substances like honey, ghee, or jaggery, which help in absorption and palatability.
• Also, we must ensure compatibility. Some herbs enhance each other\'s effects (synergism), while others may interfere (antagonism).
  Example: Trikatu (a combination of ginger, black pepper, and long pepper) enhances bioavailability of other herbs.

Challenges in Herbal Formulation Development

Despite the benefits, there are some real challenges.

• Standardization – Herbal raw materials can vary in quality depending on soil, climate, harvest time, etc.
• Stability – Herbal products may degrade over time. So, we need proper storage and sometimes natural preservatives.
• Quality control – Unlike synthetic drugs, it’s harder to ensure batch-to-batch consistency.
• Regulatory hurdles – Different countries have different laws. For example, the FDA in the US treats herbal products as dietary supplements, while India classifies them under AYUSH guidelines.

Scope and Applications

Herbal formulations aren’t just about health supplements. They’re used in:

• Nutraceuticals – products that provide health and nutritional benefits.
• Cosmeceuticals – skincare items like aloe vera creams and turmeric face packs.
• Pharmaceuticals – including cough syrups, antacids, and anti-inflammatory products.

Globally, the herbal market is booming. According to Market Research Future, the global herbal medicine market is projected to reach over USD 130 billion by 2025.