A Review of Literature on Punarnavadi Mandura: An Ayurvedic Herbo-Mineral Preparation

Background: Punarnavadi Mandura is an Ayurvedic herbo-mineral preparation primarily used as an anemia correcting agent while its role in other clinical conditions has also been studied. Objective: To understand the role of Punarnavadi Mandura in controlling anemia and other clinical conditions and its pharmacognostical and phytochemical properties. Methodology: A search of literature was carried out using “Punarnavadi Mandura” as the only key word and a total of 33 literatures were obtained of which 5 titles were finally selected for the review. Results and Discussion: Of the 5 studies identified 3 studies focused on the role of Punarnavadi Mandura as an anemia correcting agent, one study identified its role in other clinical condition (Diabetic Nephropathy), one study focused on the pharmacog­nostical and phytochemical analysis while one study focused on both the analysis of pharmacognostical and phytochemical properties and its role as an anemia correcting agent. As per these studies Punarnavadi Mandura is an effective remedy for iron deficiency anemia (IDA) of all ages. Statisti­cally significant result has been obtained in subjective and hematological parameters. Furthermore its role in other clinical conditions has also been found effective, especially in Diabetic Nephropathy (DN), as a Naimithika Rasayana. Punarnavadi Mandura is currently a part of National health programme and is included in ASHA drugs kit for the management of IDA at community level. Conclusion: Given the efficacy of Punarnavadi Mandura in IDA, at all ages, its usage should be fostered more in Indian communities especially the rural communities where IDA is endemic.