Shraddha Institute of Pharmacy Kondala Zambre, Washim, Maharashtra, India-444505.
In the long struggle to overcome the powerful forces of nature, the human beings have always turned towards plants for food, shelter, clothing, and healing. Even today herbal medicine plays an important role in the management of diseases. Though we are in 21st century where modern technology and scientific discoveries are ushering remarkable changes in our lives, nevertheless, the story of plants as herbal medicines definitely continues to unfold, however, quietly and independently. Synthetic drugs are being prepared by keeping the natural drugs as standards but the efficacy of the herbal drugs cannot be imitated & hence 80% of the world population relay on natural drugs for treating their ailments. Ayurvedic science has got its rich heritage in India. People in India believe that natural products are safe compared to synthetic drugs. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder and the most common form of dementia characterized by cognitive and memory impairment. One of the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of AD, is the oxidative stress being involved in AD ‘s development and progression. Catechins flavonoids are contained in green tea extract (GTE) and are defined as the active components of green tea, accounting for its therapeutic properties.
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders Worldwide. Its incidence is gradually increasing because of an aging demographic. Therefore, AD prevention and modification is important to improve the health status of older adults. Over 100 years ago, the first case of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) was reported by Dr. Alois Alzheimer, In a German woman, Auguste Deter. It was subsequently named “Alzheimer’s disease” by Dr. Emil Kraepelin and colleagues [1,4]. The number of individuals with AD is gradually increasing due to worldwide Aging. Catechins, which are bioactive components of tea, have antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. Moreover, other potential properties related to AD prevention and modification have been reported in in vitro and in vivo studies. Green tea catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), have emerged as promising Natural compounds with neuroprotective properties. Catechins are polyphenolic antioxidants found in Camellia sinensis that exhibit anti-amyloidogenic, anti-inflammatory, and synaptic protective Effects. Studies suggest that EGCG can reduce Aβ aggregation, inhibit tau hyperphosphorylation, modulate oxidative stress, and enhance cognitive function.
? Plant Description:
Class: Flavonoids (subcategory: flavan-3-ols or catechins)
Category: Polyphenolic Compounds (Antioxidants)
?Green Tea Catechins In The Treatment Of Alzheimer’s Disease
1.Antioxidant Effects
2.Anti-amyloid Properties
3.Anti-inflammatory Effects
4.Chelation of Metal Ions
5.Signaling
6.Improvement in Cognitive Function
Fig No 1. Green Tea
Fig No. 2 Several Uses of Green Tea Catechins
1.2 Herbal Churna
Herbal Churna (or Churnas) are finely powdered formulations of medicinal herbs used in traditional systems like Ayurveda. Prepared by cleaning, drying, pulverizing, and sieving herbs, churnas are effective due to their small particle size, which enhances absorption and bioavailability. They are natural, safe, customizable, cost-effective, and easy to use. An example is Green Tea Catechins Herbal Churna, which combines green tea polyphenols with other herbs to provide potent antioxidant effects, support weight management, improve cardiovascular and brain health, and boost immunity. These formulations are increasingly being made into tablets for precise dosing and modern convenience.
Fig No 3. Preparation of Herbal Churna
Over 100 years ago, the first case of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) was reported by Dr. Alois Alzheimer, in a German woman, Auguste Deter. It was subsequently named “Alzheimer’s Disease” By Dr. Emil Kraepelin and colleagues .The number of individuals with AD is gradually increasing due to worldwide aging. [1,2,3,4]. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior.
Fig No 4. Difference of Healthy Brain and Alzheimer’s Brain
Its pathophysiology involves complex interactions between genetic, molecular, and environmental factors, leading to the characteristic features of amyloid plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, and widespread neuronal loss [1].
Fig No 5. Pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s Disease
Plant Profile:
1.Green Tea:
Fig No 6. Green Tea Catechins Powder
Fig No 7. Chem. Str. Of Green Tea Catechins
Bramhi:
Fig No 8. Bramhi Powder
Brahmi is a traditional Ayurvedic herb known for boosting brain function. It enhances memory, focus, and mental clarity, and helps reduce stress and anxiety. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, supports skin and hair health, and may aid in managing neurological conditions [27, 28].
Fig No 9. Chem. Str. of Bramhi
3. Ashwagandha:
Fig No 10. Ashwagandha Powder
Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogen with wide-ranging benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, boosting energy, improving sleep, enhancing cognitive function, and supporting the immune system. It also helps in hormonal balance and muscle recovery [34,35].
Fig No 11. Chem. Str. of Ashwagandha
4. Shankhpushpi:
Fig No 12. Shankhpushpi Powder
Shankhpushpi is a brain and nervous system tonic that helps with memory, focus, and reducing stress. It also aids in improving sleep, supports immunity, and has anti-inflammatory benefits [9,10].
Fig No 13. Chem. Str. of Shankhpushpi
5. Turmeric:
Fig No 14. Turmeric Powder
Turmeric is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant herb with numerous health benefits, including supporting joint, heart, and brain health, improving digestion, and promoting healthy skin. Its active compound, curcumin, is central to its therapeutic properties[5,7].
Fig No 15. Chem. Str. of Turmeric
6. Gotu Kola:
Fig No 16. Gotu Kola Powder
Gotu Kola is a versatile herb known for its benefits in improving cognitive function, supporting skin health, reducing anxiety, and promoting circulation. It also aids in wound healing and has antiinflammatory and antioxidant properties [12,16,24].
Fig No 17. Chem. Str. of Gotu Kola
7.Black pepper:
Fig No 18. Black Pepper Powder
Black pepper is more than just a spice; it’s a powerful medicinal herb with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and digestive benefits. It helps enhance nutrient absorption, promotes digestion, supports the immune system, and has potential weight-loss benefits [29].
Fig No 19. Chem. Str. Of Black Pepper
Materials:
Collection of green tea leaves and other herbs required for formulation of herbal churn. Herbs are as follows; Green tea extract, Bramhi, Ashwagandha , Shankhpushpi, turmeric, Gotu kola , Black pepper[14,15].
Table No 1. Materials Used
Sr No |
Herbs |
Category |
1. |
Green tea extract |
Antioxidants, protect brain cells and Reduces plaques |
2. |
Bramhi |
Cognitive enhancement, Stress relief and Reduce anxiety. |
3. |
Ashwagandha |
Reduce stress and Support neuronal regeneration. |
4. |
Shankhpushpi |
Brain function, Memory and Calming agent |
5. |
Turmeric |
Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidants |
6. |
Gotu Kola |
Cognitive function and Improve circulation. |
7. |
Black pepper |
Enhance absorption |
Method:
?Extraction of Catechins from Green Tea Leaves by Maceration
To extract catechins, especially EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), from green tea leaves using the maceration method. A method for preparing green tea catechins using the maceration process, which is a simple and widely used extraction technique [30,32].
Fig. No 20. Maceration Process
Table No 2. Formulation Table
Sr. No. |
Herbs |
Standard proportion (%) |
Working quantity (gm) |
1. |
Green tea catechins |
20% |
10gm |
2. |
Bramhi |
15% |
7.5gm |
3. |
Ashwagandha |
15% |
7.5gm |
4. |
Shankhpushpi |
15% |
7.5gm |
5. |
Gotu Kola |
15% |
7.5gm |
6. |
Turmeric |
10% |
5gm |
7. |
Black pepper |
10% |
5gm |
8. |
Total |
100% |
50gm |
1.Organoleptic Characteristics
1.Color:
Churna was taken into watch glass and placed against white background in white tube light .
It was observed for their color by naked eye.
2.Odor:
gram churna was smelled and odour was noted.
3.Taste:
A Pinch of churna was taken and examined for its taste buds of the tongue. [4,5].
2.Physicochemical Parameters
1.Determination of PH:
Fig No 21. pH Test
Determination of Loss on Drying:
Calculate the loss on drying using the formula:
% Loss on drying = (W2- W3)/ (W2-W1) × 100
Where:
W? = Weight of empty Petridish
W? = Weight of Petridish + Sample before drying
W? = Final constant weight after drying
Given: W1 = 50gm, W2 = 52gm, W3 = 51.82gm
% Loss on drying = 52 –51.82 / 52 – 50 × 100
= 0.18 / 2 × 100 = 9.00 % w /w
Fig No 22. Loss on Drying
3. Determination of Ash value:
1. Total Ash Value:
Calculate the total ash value in mg/g of the air-dried material using the formula:
% Total Ash Value= W2 – W1 / Weight of sample × 1000
Where: W? = Weight of empty Petridish
W? = Weight of Petridish + Ash
Given: W1 = 50gm, W2 = 50.065, Sample weight = 2gm
% Total Ash Value = 50.065 – 50 / 2 × 1000
= 0.065 / 2 × = 32.5 mg/g
Fig No 23. Total Ash Value
2.Acid Insoluble Ash Value:
Calculate the acid-insoluble ash value (mg/g) using the formula:
% Acid insoluble Ash Value = Acid insoluble Ash Weight / Weight of sample × 100
Given: Weight of sample taken = 2g
Weight of empty petri dish = 50 g
Weight of petri dish + acid-insoluble ash = 50.130 g
Weight of residue (ash) = 50.130 –50 = 0.130
% Acid insoluble Ash Value = 0.130 / 2 × 100 = 6.5 %
3.Determination of Extractive values:
1.Water Soluble Extractive Value
% Water soluble extractive value = Initial mass–Mass of water extraction residue/initial mass
× 100
Given: sample weight: 5 g
Solvent added: 100 mL chloroform water
Volume of extract used for drying: 25 mL
Mass of residue after drying (from 25 mL): 0.42 g
Residue from 100 ml = 0.42/ 25 × 100
= 1.68 gm
% Water soluble extractive value = 1.68/5 × 100
= 33.6%
2. Alcohol Soluble Extractive Values
Ethanol was used as solvent in place of chloroform water and remaining procedure was the same as that of water soluble extractive value.
% Alcohol soluble extractive value = initial mass – mass of alcohol extraction residue / initial mass × 100
Given: Weight of powdered churna: 5.0 g
Solvent used: 90% ethanol (100 mL)
Filtered volume taken for evaporation: 25 mL
Residue weight after evaporation and drying at 105°C: 0.45 g
Residue from 100 ml = 0.45/25 × 100
= 1.8 gm
% Alcohol soluble extractive = 1.8/ 5 × 10 = 36 %
Fig No 24. Water And Alcohol Soluble Extraction
3. Evaluation of Physical Characteristic
1. Angle of Repose:
Angle of Repose can be calculated as:
Angle of Repose = tan-1(h/r)
Where,
H = Height of pile R = Radius of pile
Fig No 25. Angle of Repose
Table No 3. Angle of Repose
Sr. No. |
Angle of Repose |
Powder flow |
1. |
<25 |
Excellent |
2. |
25 - 30 |
Good |
3. |
30 - 40 |
Passable |
4. |
> 40 |
Very poor |
Given: H = 4.5cm, R = 6cm
Angle of Repose = tan-1 (4.5/6) = tan-1 (0.75) = 36.87°
2. Bulk Density:
Bulk density = mass of powder/Bulk volume of powder (g/ml)
Given: Mass of Powder = 25 g
Bulk Volume = 44.6ml
Bulk density = 25/44.6
Bulk density= 0.56g/ml
Fig No 26. Bulk Density
3. Tapped Density:
Tapped Density=mass of powder/Tapped volume of powder
Mass of powder = 25 g
Tapped volume after hand tapping = 40.30ml
Tapped Density = 25/40.30
Tapped Density = 0. 62 g/ml
4. Hausner’s Ratio: Hausner’s ratio = DF / Do
Where, DF = Tapped density Do = Bulk density
Table No 4. Hausner’s Ratio
Sr. No. |
Hausner’s ratio |
I.P Limits Value |
1. |
Excellent |
1.00-1.11 |
2. |
Good |
1.1-1.18 |
3. |
Fair |
1.19-1.25 |
4. |
Passable |
1.26-1.34 |
5. |
Very poor |
1.35-1.45 |
6. |
Very Very poor |
>1.60 |
Given: DF = 0.62, Do = 0.56
Hausner’s ratio = 0.62/ 0.5 =1.1
5. Carr’s Index :
Another indirect method of measuring the powder flow from bulk density is Carr’s index.
Carr’s index = % compressibility = (DF-Do/Do) × 100
Where, DF = Tapped density
Do = Bulk density
Table No 5. Carr’s Index
Sr. No. |
Carr’s Index |
I.P Limits Value |
1 |
Excellent |
<10 |
2. |
Good |
11-15 |
3. |
Fair |
16-20 |
4. |
Passable |
21-25 |
5. |
Very poor |
26-31 |
6. |
Very Very poor |
32-37 |
Given: DF = 0.62, Do = 0.56
Carr’s Index = (0.62 – 0.56/0.56) × 100 = 9.68
RESULT AND DISCUSSION
Result
The results of the organoleptic character was given in Table No.8 and physical parameter Evaluation such as pH, loss on drying, ash value, extractive value given in Table No.9.Determination of physical parameter such as bulk density, tapped density, angle of repose, Hausner’s ratio, Carr’s index were shown in Table No.10.
Table No 6. Organoleptic Characteristic
Sr. No. |
Organoleptic character |
Formulation |
1. |
Colour |
Greenish – yellow |
2. |
Odour |
Cool freshness |
3. |
Taste |
Slightly pungent |
Table No 7. Physicochemical Parameters
Sr. No |
Physicochemical parameters |
Formulation |
1. |
pH |
5.66 |
2. |
Loss on drying |
9% w/w |
3. |
Total Ash Value |
32.5mg/g |
4. |
Acid insoluble ash value |
6.5 % |
5. |
Water soluble extractive value |
33.6% |
6. |
Alcohol soluble extractive value |
36 % |
Table No 8. Physical Parameters
Sr. No. |
Physical parameters |
Formulation |
1. |
Angle of Repose |
36.87° |
2. |
Bulk density |
0.56g/ml |
3. |
Tapped density |
0.62g/ml |
4. |
Hausner’s ratio |
1.1 |
5. |
Carr’s index |
9.68 |
DISCUSSION
The results suggest that green tea catechins can be effectively incorporated into a herbal churn without significant loss of activity or stability. The antioxidant potential of the formulation highlights its possible application in managing oxidative stress-related disorders. The synergistic action between catechins and other herbal components may enhance therapeutic efficacy, making it a promising functional supplement. Further in vivo studies are recommended to confirm biological effects and bioavailability.
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION
Summary
Green tea catechins, particularly EGCG, are powerful antioxidants with neuroprotective effects. When formulated as an her synergistic bal churna, they offer a novel approach to managing Alzheimer’s disease. This natural formulation helps reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, and beta-amyloid accumulation—key factors in Alzheimer’s progression. The churna form enhances absorption and can be combined with other brain-boosting herbs like Brahmi and Ashwagandha. Early studies show promise, but more clinical research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety. In this novel approach, catechins are incorporated into a herbal churna a traditional powdered herbal formulation used in Ayurvedic medicine. This not only improves bioavailability but also allows for the inclusion of herbs like Brahmi, Ashwagandha, and Shankhpushpi, which are known for their cognitive and nerve in benefits. The herbal churna acts on multiple pathological targets of AD, making it a multi-modal therapy
CONCLUSION
The present study successfully formulated a polyherbal churn incorporating green tea catechins as a key bioactive component, aimed at providing neuroprotective effects relevant to Alzheimer’s disease management. Green tea catechins, particularly EGCG, are known for their strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-amyloidogenic properties, which were preserved and enhanced in the churn through synergistic blending with other cognitive-supportive herbs such as bramhi, ashwagandha , turmeric etc. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of neuroactive compounds, and antioxidant assays demonstrated significant free radical scavenging activity, supporting the potential of the formulation to reduce oxidative stress a key factor in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. The formulation also exhibited good physical stability and retained catechin potency over time, making it a promising candidate for long-term use. Overall, this herbal churn represents a novel, natural, and multi-targeted therapeutic approach for the prevention or supportive treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
REFERENCES
Tejaswini Taware*, Sakshi Shahu, Sunil Bhagat, Dr. Swati Deshmukh, Green Tea Catechins-Based Herbal Churna: A Novel Approach for Alzheimer’s Disease Treatment, Int. J. of Pharm. Sci., 2025, Vol 3, Issue 5, 2668-2685. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15435844