Definition
Mixtures are liquid herbal preparations that contain one or more herbal ingredients dispersed in a liquid medium.
Unlike syrups, they may not necessarily contain sugar or sweetening agents.
Types of Mixtures
Suspensions – Where herbal extracts are insoluble and suspended in a liquid base.
Solutions – Where the active herbal ingredients are completely dissolved in the solvent.
Composition
Herbal Extracts: Active medicinal components.
Solvent/Base: Water, alcohol, or hydroalcoholic solutions.
Emulsifiers/Suspending Agents: To keep the formulation uniform (e.g., gum acacia).
Preservatives: To prevent microbial growth (e.g., sodium benzoate).
Advantages
Fast-acting due to liquid form.
Easier for patients who have difficulty swallowing pills.
Can be mixed with other compatible medications.
Disadvantages
Requires proper shaking before use to ensure uniformity (especially suspensions).
May have an unpleasant taste if not flavored.
Stability issues—some herbal ingredients degrade quickly in liquid form.
Examples of Herbal Mixtures
Brahmi mixture for memory enhancement.
Triphala mixture for digestion and detoxification.
