Abstract

FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF HERBAL COUGH SYRUP

Panchikatla Satyaveni*, M. L. Lakshmi Prasanna and Devanaboyina Narendra

ABSTRACT

Cough is a common respiratory symptom often managed with synthetic cough syrups, which may cause side effects such as drowsiness, gastrointestinal discomfort, or allergic reactions. In recent years, there has been increasing interest in herbal formulations due to their safety, efficacy, and affordability. The present study focuses on the formulation and evaluation of a herbal cough syrup using medicinal plants traditionally recognized for their antitussive, expectorant, and soothing properties. Selected herbal ingredients, including Adhatoda vasica (vasaka), Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice), Zingiber officinale (ginger), Ocimum sanctum (tulsi), and Piper longum (long pepper), were extracted using aqueous or hydroalcoholic solvents and incorporated into a syrup base containing natural sweeteners and preservatives. The prepared formulation was evaluated for organoleptic properties, pH, viscosity, specific gravity, stability, and microbial load as per pharmacopoeial standards. The results demonstrated that thesyrup possessed acceptable physical characteristics, stability over the study period, and was free from microbial contamination. The herbal cough syrup showed promising potential for relieving cough symptoms without the adverse effects associated with synthetic preparations. Further clinical evaluation is warranted to substantiate its therapeutic efficacy.

Keywords: Herbal cough syrup, Adhatoda vasica, Glycyrrhiza glabra, formulation, evaluation, antitussive, expectorant.