A Comprehensive Review on Churna: An Ayurvedic formulation

Abstract

Churna, a classical Ayurvedic powdered formulation, has been widely used for centuries due to its simplicity, rapid absorption, and therapeutic efficacy. Prepared by finely grinding single or multiple medicinal herbs, Churna leverages the synergistic action of its ingredients, guided by Ayurvedic principles such as Rasa, Guna, Virya, Vipaka, and Prabhava. This review explores the historical background, classification, preparation techniques, and therapeutic significance of Churna, emphasizing its role in digestive health, metabolic regulation, immunomodulation, anti- inflammatory activity, and neuro protection. Recent scientific studies (2020–2025) validate these pharmacological activities, demonstrating the clinical relevance of classical formulations such as Triphala, Trikatu, and Chyawanprash. Despite its advantages, Churna faces challenges including variability in raw materials, microbial contamination, moisture-induced instability, dosing inconsistencies, and lack of globally harmonized quality standards. Modern analytical techniques, such as chromatographic fingerprinting, particle-size optimization, and stability testing, alongside advanced packaging solutions, offer strategies to improve quality, safety, and shelf-life. Integrating traditional Ayurvedic wisdom with contemporary pharmaceutical science can enhance standardization, patient compliance, and global acceptability. Overall, Churna represents a valuable phytotherapeutic option, and continued research can bridge classical knowledge with modern healthcare, promoting its safe and effective use in integrative medicine.