A Critical Review of Anupana as a Bioavailability Enhancer in Vati Formulations

Abstract

Anupana is a distinctive Ayurvedic therapeutic principle in which a specific adjuvant is administered with or after medicine to enhance and direct its therapeutic action. Its selection is traditionally based on Dosha, disease condition, Agni, Bala, age, season, and the properties of the medicine. Thus, Anupana is considered an integral component of therapy rather than merely a vehicle for drug administration. This review aimed to explore its therapeutic significance in Vati formulations and its potential role as a bioavailability-enhancing factor from a contemporary perspective. Methods: A classical literary review was conducted using major Ayurvedic texts, and 50 Vati formulations representing diverse therapeutic indications were systematically evaluated with respect to their prescribed Anupana and therapeutic applications. Results: Considerable diversity was observed in Anupana selection, reflecting the individualized principles of Ayurvedic therapeutics. Madhu was the most frequently prescribed Anupana, followed by Ushna Jala, Adraka Swarasa, Dugdha, Triphala Kwatha, Pippali, Takra, Ghrita, and Gomutra. These associations suggested that Anupana selection was closely related to the intended therapeutic action and disease-specific requirements. From a contemporary perspective, these adjuvants may influence drug dissolution, gastrointestinal transit, absorption, membrane permeability, distribution, and bioavailability. Conclusion: Anupana represents a sophisticated therapeutic and drug-delivery principle within Ayurvedic pharmaceutics, with potential to optimize therapeutic efficacy and provide a valuable framework for investigating traditional drug–vehicle combinations through modern pharmaceutical and pharmacokinetic approaches.