Vijay Kothari
This page showcases our research validating Traditional Medicine over last two decades.
Despite having a long history of safe usage, mainstreaming of Traditional Medicine (TM) in modern times requires generation of scientific evidence regarding efficacy of TM formulations. This is important for generating public confidence in TM, and also for eliminating false claims, which harms reputation of TM.
We are located at Institute of Science, Nirma University, India. My lab focuses on validating traditional medicine through modern scientific tools, particularly in the context of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Our work emphasizes an "anti-virulence" approach, exploring how traditional formulations can attenuate the virulence of pathogens like Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus without necessarily killing them, which helps prevent the development of drug resistance. Utilizing the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans as an in vivo model, our lab has validated the anti-infective and nutraceutical efficacy of various preparations, including the polyherbal Ayurvedic formulations Panchvalkal, Triphala, and standardized extracts of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), Punica granatum (Pomegranate). Additionally, our research integrates metagenomic profiling and transcriptome analysis to uncover the molecular mechanisms and microbial correlations that underpin the biological activities of traditional medicines like Panchagavya.
Institute of Science, Nirma University
This paper validates nutraceutical potential of one of the most widely used plants in Indian system of traditional medicine- Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha).
Validation of the traditional use of guava leaves for treatment of bacterial infection-induced GI-tract disturbance (e.g., diarrhea)
Demonstration of prophylactic efficacy of Panchgavya against antibiotic-resistant pathogenic bacteria in worm model of infection
Panchvalkal (a mixture of five bark extracts) can attenuate bacterial virulence in a non-antibiotic fashion
Talk at Third Homeopathy Vijnana Sammelan jointly organized by Global Homeopathy Foundation, Vijnan Bharati, and Innovative Thought Forum on September 24, 2023
