Article: A REVIEW ON AVIPATHI CHOORNAM: A POTENTIAL BIOAVAILABILITY ENHANCER IN IRON MALABSORPTION ANAEMIA

Article Category: Review articles

DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.17131

Pages: 179-184

Author: Thushara R, Arun Pratap *, Kasthuri Nair A

Abstract: Iron deficiency anaemia is a widespread nutritional disorder, with impaired intestinal iron absorption being a major contributing factor. In such cases, conventional iron supplementation alone may be insufficient, necessitating therapeutic measures that enhance iron bioavailability. Ayurveda emphasizes the role of Agni (digestive and metabolic fire), Tridosha (bodily humours; Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) balance, and integrity of Srotas (bodily microchannels) in digestion and nutrient assimilation. Avipathi Choorna, a classical formulation described in Ashtanga Hridaya and indicated in Pandu (anaemia-like clinical condition), is known for its Deepana (digestive stimulant), Srothosodhaka (channel cleansing), and Tridoshahara (Dosha balancing) properties, suggesting its potential role in improving intestinal absorption. This review explores the role of Avipathi Choorna as a natural bioavailability enhancer in iron deficiency anaemia due to malabsorption by correlating Ayurvedic principles with modern concepts of iron absorption. The formulation acts by restoring Jataragni (digestive fire), reducing Upalepathva (mucosal coating) caused by excess Drava(fluidity) and Snigdha(unctuousness) Guna of Pachaka Pitta and Kledaka Kapha, and facilitating proper absorption. The therapeutic efficacy of Avipathi Choorna can be understood through the pharmacodynamic attributes of its ingredients-Rasa (taste), Guna (qualities), Veerya (potency), Vipaka (post-digestive effect), and Karma (specific action). Additionally, reported phytochemical constituents such as piperine, ascorbic acid, flavonoids, terpenoids, amino acids, and scopoletin are known to enhance gastric secretion, improve intestinal permeability, chelate iron, and modulate iron metabolism, thereby supporting improved bioavailability. Several components of Avipathi Choorna, including Trikatu (combination of Zingiber officinale, Piper nigrum, and Piper longum), sugar, and honey, are well-recognized bioavailability enhancers. The synergistic action of the formulation aids in correcting digestive impairment and enhancing iron absorption. Avipathi Choorna thus appears to be a promising adjunct in the management of iron deficiency anaemia associated with malabsorption. Further clinical studies are required to validate its therapeutic efficacy.

Keyword: Avipathi Choorna, Iron deficiency anaemia, Bioavailability enhancer, Malabsorption of iron in intestine, Pandu