We use cookies to ensure our website works properly and to personalise your experience. Cookies policy
DJPS College of Pharmacy, Pathri
Cough is a respiratory issue that clears the airways from irritants and mucus. If prolonged, a persistent cough leads to discomfort, irritation of the throat, and an impact on everyday life. The objective of this study was to create and evaluate a cough syrup made from herbal medicines with antitussive and expectorant properties. The following ingredients were used to make the syrup: Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Ginger (Zingiber officinale), Peppermint (Mentha piperita), Clove (Syzygium aromaticum), and Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum). Honey, Glycerin, and Rose oil were also added to the syrup. Several formulations of the syrup were evaluated for their physical properties, including colour, odour, taste, pH, viscosity, density, and stability.The physical properties of the syrups produced were found to be satisfactory; they were within acceptable limits for pH, viscosity and density. The formulation F2 was the most stable with acceptable physicochemical properties. Stability studies demonstrated that the optimized formulation retained stability at an accelerated rate during the duration of the study.In conclusion, this study has shown that the formulated polyherbal cough syrup is safe and effective for treating coughs. The formulation of the syrup can be considered a viable alternative to conventional cough syrups.
Coughing is a defensive reflex action of the respiratory system to rid the airways of mucus, dirt, microbes, and other irritants in the air. Coughing is important for the maintenance of respiratory health since it helps to clear the throat of mucus and clear the bronchial passages. Coughs are usually classified as either productive coughs that produce mucus, or dry coughs that do not produce mucus. Although coughing can be a natural defense mechanism, long term coughing may irritate the throat, create pressure in the chest, disrupt sleep, and decrease your quality of life. Many conventional cough suppressants like dextromethorphan and codeine are widely used to treat cough symptoms; however, they can cause significant side effects including drowsiness, sedation, constipation, and dependency when taken long term. Because of this, more and more people are looking for safer and effective herbal alternatives to treat coughs and respiratory problems.
1.1 Types of coughs
Further cough is classified into two types as
A cough that doesn't generate mucous is called a dry cough.
Coughing is a tickly, unpleasant sensation that occurs when your lungs or airways are inflamed.
Your cough will be dry and ineffective if you don't have mucus, which is typically produced when you have an illness.
Asthma, bronchitis, acid reflux, and allergies are common reasons.
A productive cough, often known as a wet cough, can be uncomfortable and bothersome.
This kind of cough frequently indicates an underlying medical condition and produces mucus or phlegm.
For a wet cough to be effectively managed and relieved, it is essential to comprehend its causes, symptoms, and treatment and prevention techniques.
It may be classified into acute, sub -acute and chronic cough depending upon duration
The cough lasting for less than 3 weeks are categorized under this type.
Causes for acute cough is due to common cold, URTI, COPD, environmental pollution, and infective bronchitis
The cough lasting for at least the period of 3 to 8 weeks is categorized under this type.
The respiratory causes are pneumonia, and B. pertussis infection.
Non respiratory causes are GERD and rarely Tourette’s syndrome
The cough lasting for more than period of 8 weeks or more are chronic coughs.
The respiratory causes are COPD, asthma, lung cancer, tuberculosis, and pneumoconiosis
1.2 Problems of Synthetic drug:-
Traditional synthetic medications for coughs (such as codeine, dextromethorphan, antihistamines, and bronchodilators) are frequently prescribed; however, prolonged use can result in side effects such as drowsiness, sedation, constipation, gastrointestinal upset, dizziness, and dependence. As the limitations of synthetic medications become more well-known and increasing concern arises regarding the safety of synthetic medications, herbal treatments are being viewed as possible safer and more effective treatments for coughs and respiratory disorders.
1.3 Importance of Herbal Medicine:-
People have been using herbal medicine for a long time to help with health issues, including cough and respiratory problems. Recently, the amount of interest in herbal medicine has been increasing because they are more natural and have fewer side effects than synthetic drugs. People also tend to prefer the use of herbal medicine because they cost less than conventional drugs and usually have better patient acceptance. Many different types of plant materials contain many types of chemicals (phytochemicals), like Alkaloids, Flavonoids, Terpenes, GLYCOSIDES, Essential Oils, and Tannins. These phytochemicals have been found to help patients with various types of health issues by providing pharmacological benefits such as cough relief, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, expectorant, etc. Herbal medicine is preferred by most people when treating respiratory distress because it provides symptom relief without causing many of the negative effects associated with conventional cough suppressants, such as sedation, dependency, and gastrointestinal irritation. In addition, combining multiple herbs together (polyherbal formulations) enhances the therapeutic effect of the combined herbs and improves both the safety and effectiveness of treatment. Therefore, there is an increasing recognition that herbal medicines are safe and effective alternatives to prescribing pharmaceutical drugs for treating cough and other respiratory conditions.
1.4 Polyherbal concept and selected herbs:-
Polyherbal formulations have become popular due to their availability as compounds with the ability to work in synergy, thus resulting in an improvement in the overall efficacy of the treatment provided. Polyherbal products differ from single-herb products by virtue of the fact that they may contain multiple bioactive phytoconstituents which act through different mechanisms giving rise to enhanced pharmacological properties while at the same time reducing side effects. Due to the ability to provide antitussive, expectorant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and soothing effects simultaneously, polyherbal formulations represent an excellent option for the treatment of coughs and respiratory disorders. The product formulation contains many of the medicinal herbs traditionally used for respiratory relief, including Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi), which exhibits anti-infective, antitussive, and immunomodulatory effects; Zingiber officinale (Ginger), which has anti-inflammatory and expectorant effects; Mentha piperita (Peppermint), which provides a cooling and soothing feeling to the throat; and Syzygium aromaticum (Clove) and Cinnamomum zeylanicum (Cinnamon), both of which provide additional antibacterial and antioxidant properties in the formulation. Honey and glycerin act as demulcents and improve the palatability of the syrup. The combination of these herbal ingredients in the formulation provides a synergistic effect, and may therefore enhance the efficacy of the product when used for the management of coughs and other respiratory conditions.
1.5 Need and objective of present study:-
Growing numbers of individuals with respiratory illnesses have created increased interest in herbal formulations for cough relief. While many synthetic cough syrups are effective treatments, prolonged use is frequently associated with significant side effects including drowsiness, sedation, gastrointestinal disorders, and dependence. Herbal formulations are viewed as safer alternatives to synthetics because they are derived from nature, have higher patient compliance, and lower incidence of adverse reactions. Popular oral doses including tulsi, ginger, peppermint, clove, or cinnamon – all known for their antitussive, expectorant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects – have been shown to provide relief from both cough and respiratory distress. For this reason, there is a need to create a stable, effective and patient-friendly polyherbal cough syrup using only safe and effective natural medicinal ingredients. The purpose of the present study was to formulate and evaluate a polyherbal cough syrup and to assess the physicochemical characteristics (i.e., colour, odour, taste, pH, viscosity, density, antimicrobial activity and stability) as a means of determining the product's appropriateness and effectiveness for treating cough.
2. AIM AND OBJECTIVE
Aim: To formulate and evaluate polyherbal cough syrup using selected medicinal plants extracts for safe and effective management of cough.
Objective:
3. DRUG PROFILE
3.1 Tulsi
Synonym: - Talas, Tulsi
Biological source: - the sperkling and dried lives of the ocimum sanctulinn.
Fig.No.1: Tulsi
Family:- lamiaceae
Chemical constituents: Eugenol, Methyl eugenol, beta-caryophyllene.
Uses:
3.2 Ginger
Synonym: zingibere, rhizome zingiberis.
Biological source: It consist of dried rhizomes of zingiber officinale
Family: zingiberaceae
Fig.No.2: Ginger
Chemical constituents: Ginger contains about 0.25-3% of volatile oil, 5-8% resinous matter, 56% starch and protein. Volatile mixture contains a mixture of more than 25 constituents containing monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes. The pungent taste of ginger is due to presence of gingerol.
Uses:
3.3 Peppermint
Synonym: Mint, Mentha, Pudina
Biological source: extracted from stem, leaves and flowers of Mentha piperita.
Family: lamiaceae
Chemical constituents: menthol, menthone, limonene, β-pinene, menthyl acetate, caveol, piperitone, menthofuran
Fig.No.3: Peppermint
Uses:-
3.4 Clove
Synonym: clove flower, clove buds, caryophyllum.
Biological source: dried flower buds of ugenia caryophyllus
Family: Myrtaceae
Fig.No.4: Clove
Chemical constituents: eugenol is the major compound accounting for at least 50% . the remaining 10-40% consist of eugenyl acetate beta-caryophylene and alpha-humulene
Uses:
3.5 Cinnamon
Synonym: cinnamon bark, kalmi-dalchini, Ceylon cinnamon.
Biological source: dried inner bark of shoots of coppiced trees of Cinnamomum zeylanicum.
Family: Lauraceae
Fig.No.5: Cinnamon
Chemical constituents: 0.5-1% volatile oils, 1.2% tannins, mucilage, calcium axalate, starch, mannitol and cinnamon oils.
Uses:
3.6 Honey
Synonym: Madha
Biological source: honey is a sugary substance/secretion deposited in the honey comb by the hive bee apis millifera and other species of apis belonging to the family Apidae
Family: Apidae
Fig.No.6:Honey
Chemical constituents: it contains glucose 30-40%, fructose 40-50%, some small quantities of sucrose, dextrin, formic acid. Also contains proteins, enzymes, vitamins, coloring matter.
Uses:
3.7 Glycerine
Plays multiple important roles in a herbal cough syrup, mainly as an excipient but also contributing to therapeutic effect.
Fig.No.7: Glycerine
Synonyms: Glycerol, Propanetriol, 1,2,3-trihydroxypropane
Uses / Indications:
3.8 Rose oil
Biological source: Obtained from fresh petals of Rosa amascene / Rosa centifolia
Family: Rosaceae
Fig.No.8: Rose oil
Uses in General:
3.9 Ethanol
Chemical Name: Ethanol also known as ethyl alcohol, grain alcohol.
Chemical Formula: C2H6O
Molecular Weight:46.07 g/mol
Appearance: Clear, colorless, volatile liquid Odor: Pungent, characteristic vinous odor Solubility: Completely miscible in water and most organic solvents
Fig.no.9: Ethanol
4. MATERIAL AND EQUIPMENT
Table.No.1: List of drug and excipients
|
Sr. No |
Ingredients |
|
1 |
Tulsi |
|
2 |
Ginger |
|
3 |
Peppermint |
|
4 |
Clove |
|
5 |
Cinnamon |
|
6 |
Honey |
|
7 |
Glycerin |
|
8 |
Ethenol |
|
9 |
Rose oil |
|
10 |
Water |
Table.No.2: Equipment and Glassware Used
|
Sr. No |
Glassware |
|
1 |
Beaker |
|
2 |
Measuring cylinder |
|
3 |
Reflux condenser |
|
4 |
Spatula |
|
5 |
Funnel |
|
6 |
Round bottom flask |
|
7 |
Specific gravity bottle |
|
8 |
Density bottle |
Table.No.3: Instrument Used
|
Sr. No |
Instruments |
Model |
Manufacturer |
|
1 |
Digital balance |
AA-2200 |
Labline, Mumbai |
|
2 |
Heating mentle |
Heating mentle |
Labline, Mumbai |
5. EXPERIMENTAL WORK
5.1 Preformulation study:
5.1.1 Organoleptic properties: These are preliminary characteristics of any substance. Which are useful in identification of specific material by experience and with sense of colour, Odour and Taste.
5.2 Formulation and Development of Herbal Cough Syrup:
These are the natural herbal drug which is used for the preparation of Herbal Cough Syrup
Table. No. 4: Formulation Table
|
Sr. no |
Ingredient |
Quantity |
Uses |
|
1 |
Tulsi |
5ml |
Antitussive |
|
2 |
Ginger |
5ml |
Antibacterial |
|
3 |
Peppermint |
2ml |
Expectorant |
|
4 |
Clove |
2ml |
Antimicrobial |
|
5 |
Cinnamon |
1ml |
Anti-inflammatory |
|
6 |
Honey |
15ml |
Sweetening agent |
|
7 |
Glycerin |
8ml |
Soothing agent |
|
8 |
Ethanol |
5ml |
Preservative |
|
9 |
Rose oil |
2-3 drops |
Flavoring agent |
|
10 |
Distilled Water |
q.s |
Vehicle |
5.3 Methodology
6. EVALUATION PARAMETER
6.1 Organoleptic characters:
Table no.5: Organoleptic characters:
|
Sr.no |
Test |
Procedure |
|
1 |
Colour examination |
|
|
2 |
Odour examination |
|
|
3 |
Taste examination |
|
6.2 pH:
6.3 Viscosity:
6.4 Density:
6.5 Stability Study:
The stability analysis of the F1 polyherbal cough syrup formulation was conducted using accelerated storage conditions to determine its physicochemical stability. The F1 syrup was manufactured in a volume of 50 mL, packed in an amber colour bottle, sealed with an airtight seal, and then placed in an incubator at an ambient temperature of 40°C ± 2°C (bacteria; 30°C ± 1°C for pH determination) with a relative humidity of 75% ± 5% for a period of one month. Thereafter, at set intervals, the product was examined for colour, odour, taste, pH, viscosity, and any microbial contamination. Stability evaluation demonstrated that the F1 formulation maintained its physiological parameters (colour, odour, and taste) as well as pH during the entire period of storage (i.e. the product did not change from the manufacture date). The study also revealed that there was no microbial contamination during the storage period, indicating the stability and overall safety of the prepared formulation.
7. RESULT AND DISCUSSION
the prepared F1 polyherbal cough syrup (50 mL), different physicochemical characteristics were evaluated; these included organoleptic properties (taste, smell), pH, viscosity, density, antimicrobial testing, and stability. All of these factors provided acceptable results related to both appearance and taste as well as stability for oral use.
7.1 Organoleptic Properties
Table.no. 7: Organoleptic evaluation of F1 formulation
|
Sr. No |
Parameter |
Initial |
After 1 month |
|
1 |
Colour |
Brownish |
No significant change |
|
2 |
Odour |
Aromatic |
No significant change |
|
3 |
Taste |
Sweet |
No significant change |
|
4 |
pH |
5.6 |
5.5 |
The F1 formulation was observed visually for colour, odour, and taste. The syrup showed a brownish colour with characteristic aromatic odour and sweet taste due to the presence of honey and herbal ingredients.
7.2 pH determination:-
The pH of F1 formulation was determined using a digital pH meter and was found to be
7.3Viscosity Determination:-
The viscosity of the prepared syrup was determined using an Ostwald viscometer and was found to be 1.4 cp
7.4 Density Determination:-
The density of F1 formulation was determined using a specific gravity bottle method and was found to be 1.1g/ml
7.5 Stability study:-
The F1 formulation was subjected to accelerated stability studies at 40°C ± 2°C and 75% RH for one month
Table.no.8: Stability study for F1 formulation
|
Sr. no |
formulation |
Parameter |
Observation |
|
1 |
Ginger |
Colour |
Brownish |
|
2 |
Tulsi |
Odour |
Aromatic |
|
3 |
Clove |
Taste |
sweet |
Table.no.9: Evaluation of Cough Syrup
|
Parameter |
Result |
|
Colour |
Brown |
|
Odour |
Aromatic |
|
Taste |
Sweet and pungent |
|
pH |
5.5 |
|
Viscosity |
Moderate |
|
Specific gravity |
1.2g/ml |
8. SUMMARY:-
This study successfully developed a polyherbal cough syrup with desirable pharmaceutical properties and good stability. The formulation met all evaluation criteria and was found to be microbiologically safe. Its natural composition and patient-friendly characteristics make it a suitable option for cough management. Further studies may help establish its clinical effectiveness and therapeutic potential.
9. FUTURE PROSPECTIVE:-
10. CONCLUSION
The present study successfully formulated and evaluated a polyherbal cough syrup using selected medicinal plant extracts. The developed formulation exhibited satisfactory physicochemical characteristics, including appropriate pH, viscosity, specific gravity, and acceptable organoleptic properties. Stability studies confirmed that the syrup remained stable under recommended storage conditions, while microbial analysis established its safety for oral administration. The synergistic action of the herbal ingredients suggests its potential effectiveness in relieving cough and soothing respiratory discomfort. Therefore, the formulated polyherbal cough syrup represents a safe, stable, and promising herbal alternative for the management of cough and related respiratory ailments.
REFERENCES
Jalde Swapna, Shaikh Huzaif, Shindalkar Atul, Sadulwad Hariom, Sayyed Umer, Solat Krishna, Dr. Ramesh Ingole, Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Cough Syrup Containing Natural Antitussive Agents, Int. J. of Pharm. Sci., 2026, Vol 4, Issue 6, 1730-1744. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20577178
10.5281/zenodo.20577178