Exploring Polyherbal Syrups as Alternative Anthelmintic Agents: Formulation, Screening and Comparative Efficacy

Background: Helminth infections remain a significant global health issue, necessitating effective and accessible treatment options. Polyherbal formulations offer a promising alternative to conventional anthelmintic drugs, particularly in syrup form for easier administration to pediatric and geriatric populations. Objective: This study aims to explore the potential of polyherbal syrups as alternative anthelmintic agents. It focuses on the formulation, phytochemical screening, and comparative efficacy of these syrups against standard treatments such as Albendazole. Methods: Polyherbal syrup formulations were prepared and evaluated for their anthelmintic activity using standard in vitro assay. The study focused on identifying plants containing bioactive compounds specifically phenolic compounds, tannins, and flavonoids known for their anthelmintic potential. Bioactive components were identified using UV spectrophotometry, and phytochemical screening was conducted to determine the presence of key compounds. The anthelmintic efficacy of the polyherbal syrups was compared to that of Albendazole. Results: The study found that certain polyherbal syrup formulations exhibited significant anthelmintic activity, comparable to or exceeding that of Albendazole. The presence of phenolic compounds, tannins, and flavonoids in the selected plants was confirmed, contributing to their observed efficacy. Conclusion: Polyherbal syrups demonstrate potential as effective alternatives to standard anthelmintic treatments. These formulations, particularly those derived from plants with high concentrations of bioactive compounds, could offer a viable option for managing helminth infections, especially in populations with limited access to conventional medications. Further research could focus on optimizing these formulations and validating their efficacy in clinical settings.