Therapeutic potentials of Pottali Kalpana: An Ayurvedic mercurial dosage form

Background: Pottalis are a unique dosage form recommended for treating disease conditions requiring immediate attention and care.Ayurveda classics have described different Pottalis in the management of specific disease conditions.They have additional therapeutic attributes such as being highly effective in lesser doses, quick action, and good palatability.Thus, compiling brief information about such a unique dosage form is needed.Materials and Methods: Research works carried out at different institutes were searched through Shodhganga, and search engines such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus were used to perform an extensive search of the scientific literature.Research works carried out on Pottali dosage forms were compiled and screened to gather information on pharmaceutical, analytical, and preclinical aspects.Pottali, Safety, and Ayurved were the keywords employed.Research works that have been published in the previous 10 years (2010-2023) were screened.Published research works involving pharmaceutical studies on Pottali dosage prepared through the sulfur bath method (Gandhaka Drava), analytical studies, and preclinical safety studies were considered for detailed review in the present study.Results: A total of 12 dissertation works and seven published research articles were found on Pottali Kalpana.It can be prepared at temperature ranges between 120 and 291C.The average duration of heat treatment required for the preparation of Pottali is 3-12 h.The difference in their analytical profile is found as per their integral ingredients and method of preparation.Pottali dosage forms have promising safety and efficacy at therapeutic dose levels.Conclusion: It can be concluded that Pottali Kalpana is a unique dosage form in Ayurveda that can be easily prepared with a specific heating pattern in molten sulfur.They have different analytical profiles as per their integral components.They can be safely used at therapeutic doses with suitable adjuvants.