Microbiology section is the National lead center for Microbial quality analysis of Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy drugs. The nature of ASU&H drugs made from wholesome natural substances of plant, microorganisms, animal, human, mineral or marine origin. Raw material used in ASU&H drugs are may have a higher level contamination with microorganisms. The therapeutic efficacy of ASU&H drugs depends on the active ingredients which are effective against the specific malady. In case of high microbial contamination in drugs it may be feasible that active ingredients of drugs may deteriorate. The quality of source material and the procedure is important in the manufacturing of ASU&H drugs.

Activities

Microbiology is an essential section to carry out the quality control tests and standardization of the ASU&H drugs. The Microbiology section accomplishes the Sterility test and Microbial Limit Test (MLT) for ASU&H Drugs as per Drugs & Cosmetic Act 1940 and Rules 1945.

Microbial Limit Test

• Total microbial plate count
• Total yeast and mould count
• Presence/absence of specific objectionable pathogens like: E. coli, Salmonella sp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus

To analyze the microorganisms, the laboratory is equipped with all essential instruments and equipments. The laboratory is designed in such a manner that the risk of contamination will be very low. The laboratory is categorized in to following different area to maintain the aseptic condition to carry out the quality control tests and standardization of the ASU&H drugs:

• Sample receipt and holding area
• Media preparation area
• Sterilization area
• Microbial inoculation area
• Microbial culture incubation area

Apart from the contribution of Microbiology section in quality control tests and standardization of the ASU&H Drugs, the section also provides hands on training on Microbiological Analysis of ASU&H Drugs to drugs inspectors; Asst. drugs controllers, Govt. analyst, faculty and student of various colleges across the Nation.

Scientific team

• Dr. M. Ramesh, Scientific Officer (Microbiology), Head of the Section
• Dr. Akhilesh Tiwari, Scientific Assistant (Microbiology)