Development of a Modified Intimate Wash From Yoniprakshalan Kwatha (YOSHA) With Comparative Antimicrobial and Quality Assessment: Protocol for an Experimental Study.

BACKGROUND

Vaginal itching is a frequent gynecological issue impacting women of various age groups. Although commonly linked to nonserious conditions, it may also signal infections, sexually transmitted diseases, prolonged use of certain medications, such as oral contraceptives, hormonal fluctuations, or suboptimal hygiene. Standard pharmaceutical treatments, despite being widely used, often produce undesirable effects, such as irritation of the vaginal lining, alterations in vaginal pH, and disruption of healthy microbial flora. These challenges highlight the need for safer, natural alternatives rooted in traditional systems of medicine, such as Ayurveda.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to prepare yoniprakshalan kwatha (intimate wash decoction) as per the classical reference of Yogratnakar and to develop its modified dosage form, YOSHA. Additionally, this study aims to assess the quality control parameters of both yoniprakshalan kwatha and YOSHA to ensure their safety and efficacy. Furthermore, the antimicrobial effects of both formulations will be investigated, and a comparative analysis will be conducted to evaluate and contrast the antimicrobial activity of YOSHA and yoniprakshalan kwatha.

METHODS

Medicinal herbs were sourced from the institute's rasashala and authenticated by taxonomists. The traditional decoction and YOSHA will be prepared using Ayurvedic and modern pharmaceutical methods. Quality tests will include physicochemical and microbial analyses. The disc diffusion method will be used to evaluate antimicrobial activity against Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus. Standard antibiotics and sterile discs will serve as controls. Tests will be repeated over 3 days. Statistical analysis will be performed using one-way ANOVA in SPSS (version 17), with P<.05 considered significant.

RESULTS

This study commenced in July 2025, with data collection scheduled from August 2025 to September 2025. By December 2025, it is expected that laboratory testing and antimicrobial assessments will have been completed, along with the finalization of quality control evaluations. Preliminary findings are anticipated to show that YOSHA will exhibit strong antimicrobial activity, comparable to or exceeding that of the original yoniprakshalan kwatha. Significant inhibition zones are likely to be observed against C albicans and E coli. The modified formulation is projected to meet pharmaceutical standards for consistency, safety, and shelf stability. Data analysis will be completed, and the full results are expected to be published in December 2025.

CONCLUSIONS

The study will show that YOSHA, a modern herbal product based on the traditional Ayurvedic yoniprakshalan kwatha, has strong in vitro antimicrobial effects against common vaginal pathogens and meets pharmaceutical quality and safety standards. Unlike raw decoctions, it offers a stable, user-friendly formulation that blends traditional knowledge with scientific validation. Strengths include classical preparation methods, solid quality control, and reliable results. Future work should involve clinical trials, broader testing, and user-focused evaluations. Findings will be disseminated through journals, conferences, and practitioner outreach to promote YOSHA as a natural option for women's hygiene.