HERBAL COMPOSITION, PROCESS FOR ITS PREPARATION AND USE
THEREOF
Technical Field
The present invention relates to an extract of Momordica Charantia that contains
one or more nitrogen containing heterocyclic compounds (as described herein) as
bioactive markers; a process for preparation of t e said extract; a composition containing
t e said extract and use thereof for the treatment of metabolic disorders.
Background of the Invention
Metabolic disorders occur when the body is unable to properly metabolise
carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, or nucleic acids. Most metabolic disorders are caused by
genetic mutations that result in missing or dysfunctional enzymes that are needed for the
cell to perform metabolic processes. Examples of metabolic disorders include obesity,
excessive body fat, hyperlipidemia, hyperlipoproteinemia, hyperglycemia,
hypercholesterolemia, hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, and
diabetes mellitus (diabetes), particularly type 2 diabetes.
Among the metabolic disorders, diabetes mellitus is the most prevalent, and is
considered to be one of the five leading causes of death in the world. There are more than
150 million people suffering from diabetes worldwide and it is expected that this figure
will be over 366 million by 2030. It is a syndrome of metabolism, usually due to
combination of hereditary and environmental causes, leading to abnormal increase in
blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia).
There are two types of diabetes: Insulin dependent Diabetes Mellitus (IDDM or
Type 1 diabetes) and Non-insulin dependent Diabetes Mellitus (NIDDM or Type 2
diabetes). Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease frequently occurring in children and
young adults. Type 2 diabetes, the most common type of diabetes, results from the body's
inability to produce insulin in sufficient amount or to properly use the insulin that it
produces. Defects in insulin secretion and insulin resistance may be considered as the
main causes of Type 2 diabetes. Diabetes mellitus, including the Type 2 diabetes, is
known to be associated with secondary complications such as cardiovascular disease,
peripheral vascular disease, stroke, diabetic neuropathy, diabetic nephropathy, and diabetic
retinopathy.
Obesity is another prevalent health problem affecting all age groups. Among
adults, 300 millions are suffering from obesity, and this figure tends to increase quickly,
resulting in a rapid increase in obesity-related diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiac
diseases, stroke and hypertension. The major reasons resulting in overweight and obesity
are attributed to high fatty and high calorie diet, lack of exercise and the accelerating
urbanization. Considerable efforts have been taken to develop anti-obesity drugs, however,
there still does not exist an ideal anti-obesity drug that would produce sustained weight
loss with minimal side effects. Further, very few drugs have been approved for the
treatment of obesity from among the investigational drugs. Moreover, from among the
approved anti-obesity drugs namely orlistat, a specific inhibitor of gastrointestinal tract
lipases, and sibutramine, a monoamine reuptake inhibitor, the latter, i.e., sibutramine has
been discontinued in a few countries including India and the US owing to its adverse
cardiovascular effects.
The well known drugs for diabetes like sulfonylureas, glinides, glucagon-like
peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, metformin, thiazolidinediones and a-glucosidase
inhibitors, generally target only insulin resistance or -cell dysfunction by increasing
insulin secretion or tissue sensitivity to insulin. In addition, substantial number of
marketed drugs is associated with major drawbacks that limit the efficiency of therapy.
Among others, the following problems continue to plague current therapy: 1)
hypoglycemia (especially when initiating therapy; severe hypoglycaemia is known to lead
to myocardial infarction and to the development of dementia); 2) rise in weight gain (a
leading factor driving the epidemic of diabetes); 3) increase in insulin resistance; and 4) -
cell destruction. This clearly establishes a requirement for new therapies or further
improvement in current therapies to overcome these drawbacks.
Thus, in view of the fact that currently available treatment options for diabetes are
associated with certain drawbacks, there is a continuing need for effective therapy for
Type 2 diabetes; its associated disorders and complications associated with it.
Plant based medicines have been used for the treatment of several diseases,
including diabetes considering that plants provide for alternative treatment option.
Momordica Charantia, a flowering vine in the family Cucurbitaceae, is also known as
bitter melon, bitter gourd, karela, balsam pear, and it has been very popular plant used for
the treatment of diabetes (Int J Diabetes & Metabolism 2003, 11: pages 46-55). Besides, it
has been widely used as a medicinal remedy for dispelling "heat", detoxicating, improving
acuity of vision, invigorating stomach, relieving thirst and as a helminthicide.
The hypoglycemic activity of Momordica Charantia, both in human and animal
models, has been reported. In fact, extracts derived from Momordica Charantia are
known to be commercially available for t e treatment of diabetes. These extracts either
alone or in combination with other therapeutic agents, are used for the treatment of
diabetes. Despite the available extracts of Momordica Charantia for use in the treatment
of diabetes, there is a need to provide an improved composition containing a standardised
extract of Momordica Charantia that would effectively treat diabetes and its associated
disorders including the complications associated with it.
The extraction processes of the active constituents from various parts of
Momordica Charantia have been reported in prior art documents. The extraction processes
and the formulation methods of active constituents from Momordica Charantia have been
disclosed in Patent Documents: IN81887, JP2006314273, GB1435664, WO2013 123912,
JP2005126370, IN156263, US5098710, CN1 180545, CN101637491, US6852695,
US6831162, IN191582, CN1253734, CN1303698, IN188858, IN826/DEL/2000,
IN768/MUM/2001, CN1418890, CN1562340, CN1858223, CN1709900, CN1872134,
JP2008120701, TW200927139, CN101366806, CN101461514, CN101485429 and
CN101597389.
While treatment of diabetes involving use of the commercial extracts derived from
Momordica Charantia is known, certain drawbacks associated with the extracts have
been identified, especially in terms of the extracts having limited efficacy, the requirement
of prolonged intake or longer duration of therapy, the presence of neurotoxic elements
present in the extracts. Vicine is a one type of neurotoxin (International Journal of
Toxicology 2002, 21: pages 201-209), which is present in commercially available extracts
derived from Momordica Charantia. Another drawback associated with the commercially
available extracts of Momordica Charantia, is that the extracts are relatively low in natural
Vitamin C and natural fibre contents; which are essential nutrients for a diabetic patient
since they serve as antioxidant and carbohydrate tolerance improver.
Thus, there is a need to provide improved compositions containing an extract,
particularly, a standardised extract of Momordica Charantia having improved efficacy and
safety that would effectively treat diabetes and the secondary complications associated
with it.
Summary of the invention
In one aspect, the present invention relates to an extract of Momordica Charantia
wherein the said extract contains one or more nitrogen containing heterocyclic compounds
(as described herein) as the bioactive markers.
In another aspect, the present invention relates to a standardized extract of
Momordica Charantia containing one or more nitrogen containing heterocyclic
compounds selected from t e group consisting of uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy
adenosine; such that the said extract is standardised in relation to one or more of the said
nitrogen containing heterocyclic compounds as the bioactive markers.
In another aspect, the present invention relates to an extract of Momordica
Charantia containing one or more nitrogen containing heterocyclic compounds selected
from the group consisting of uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive
markers; wherein the said extract is enriched with natural vitamin C and fibres, and
wherein the said extract is substantially free from vicine.
In another aspect, the present invention relates to a process for preparation of the
extract of Momordica Charantia containing one or more nitrogen containing heterocyclic
compounds selected from the group consisting of uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy
adenosine as bioactive markers.
In another further aspect, the present invention relates to a composition comprising
a therapeutically effective amount of an extract of Momordica Charantia containing one
or more nitrogen containing heterocyclic compounds selected from the group consisting of
uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers, either alone, or along
with at least one pharmaceutically acceptable excipient.
In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a method of treating a
metabolic disorder comprising administering to a subject in need thereof a therapeutically
effective amount of the extract of Momordica Charantia (as described herein).
In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a method of treating a
metabolic disorder comprising administering to a subject in need thereof a therapeutically
effective amount of the composition comprising the extract of Momordica Charantia (as
described herein).
In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method of treating diabetes or
secondary complications associated with diabetes comprising administering to a subject in
need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of an extract of Momordica Charantia
containing one or more nitrogen containing heterocyclic compounds selected from t e
group consisting of uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as t e bioactive markers.
In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method of treating diabetes or
secondary complications associated with diabetes comprising administering to a subject in
need thereof a composition comprising therapeutically effective amount of an extract of
Momordica Charantia containing one or more nitrogen containing heterocyclic
compounds selected from the group consisting of uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy
adenosine as the bioactive markers.
According to another aspect, the present invention relates to an extract of
Momordica Charantia containing one or more nitrogen containing heterocyclic
compounds (as described herein) as the bioactive markers or a composition containing the
said extract; for use in combination with a further therapeutically active agent for the
treatment of a metabolic disorder, particularly diabetes or secondary complications
associated with diabetes.
These and other aspects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent to
those skilled in the art from the following description.
Detailed Description of the Invention
It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while
indicating embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only, since
various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will become
apparent to those skilled in the art. One skilled in the art, based upon the description
herein, may utilize the present invention to its fullest extent. The following specific
embodiments are to be construed as merely illustrative, and not limitative of the remainder
of the disclosure in any way whatsoever.
Unless otherwise defined, all the terms used herein, including the technical and
scientific terms, have the meaning as that generally understood by one of ordinary skill in
the art to which the present invention relates.
Definitions
It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the
singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the content clearly
dictates otherwise.
It should also be noted that the term "and" is generally employed in its sense
including "and/or" unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.
As used herein, t e term "nitrogen containing heterocyclic compounds" refers to a
group of compounds including a nucleobase such as adenine and/or a nucleoside such as
uridine and 2-hydroxy adenosine. Accordingly, "the nitrogen containing heterocyclic
compounds" contained in the extract as the bioactive markers, include, but may not be
limited to, adenine, uridine and 2-hydroxy adenosine.
The term "one or more" as used in reference to the nitrogen containing
heterocyclic compounds (as described herein) means one to two nitrogen containing
heterocyclic compounds; preferably, one to three nitrogen containing heterocyclic
compounds.
The term "subject" as used herein refers to animals including, but not limited to,
any mammals, in particular humans or non-human mammals. Non-human mammals
include, but are not limited to, domestic animals, such as cows, pigs, horses, dogs, cats,
rabbits, rats and mice, and non-domestic animals. In the context of the present invention,
the term "subject" may be used interchangeably with the term "patient". In the context of
the present invention, the phrase "a subject in need thereof means a subject (patient) in
need for the treatment of a disease or disorder for which the extract of Momordica
Charantia (as described herein) or the composition comprising the said extract (as
described herein) can be suitably used.
The term "treatment", "treat" or "treating" as used herein means alleviating,
inhibiting, slowing or arresting the development, reversing and/or relieving the conditions
(e.g. secondary complications associated with diabetes), diseases, disorders (e.g. metabolic
disorders such as diabetes) or syndromes to which such term is associated with. Treatment
also includes preventing development of, or alleviating to some extent, one or more of the
symptoms of the disease, disorder or condition being treated.
The term "therapeutically effective amount" or "effective amount" as used herein
means an amount of the therapeutically active compound (e.g. the extract of Momordica
Charantia as described herein) sufficient to effect beneficial or desired results for treating
a condition, disease, disorder, state or syndrome. In the context of the present invention,
the condition, disease or disorder refers to metabolic disorders such as diabetes or
secondary complications associated with diabetes. An effective amount can be
administered in one or more administrations. An effective amount is typically sufficient to
palliate, ameliorate, stabilize, reverse, slow or delay the progression of the disease state.
Generally, the term "metabolic disorders" refers to t e disorders or defects that
occur when the body is unable to properly metabolise carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, or
nucleic acids. In the context of the present invention, the metabolic disorder is selected
from, but is not limited to, insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, diabetes (type 1 or type 2
diabetes), secondary complications associated with diabetes, obesity, glucose intolerance,
hypercholesterolemia, dyslipidemia, hyperinsulinemia, atherosclerotic disease, polycystic
ovary syndrome, coronary artery disease, metabolic syndrome, hypertension, or a related
disorder associated with abnormal plasma lipoprotein, triglycerides or a disorder related to
glucose levels such as pancreatic beta cell regeneration.
The term "pharmaceutically acceptable" as used herein means the carrier, diluent,
and /or excipients used in the composition must be compatible with the other ingredients
of the formulation, and not deleterious to the recipient thereof.
The term "pharmaceutically acceptable excipient" as used herein means a non
toxic, inert solid, semi-solid, diluent, encapsulating material or formulation auxiliary of
any type. Some examples of materials which can serve as pharmaceutically acceptable
excipient are sugars such as lactose, glucose, and sucrose; starches such as corn starch and
potato starch; cellulose and its derivatives such as sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, ethyl
cellulose and cellulose acetate; malt; gelatin; as well as other non-toxic compatible
lubricants such as sodium lauryl sulfate and magnesium stearate, as well as coloring
agents, releasing agents, coating agents, sweetening, flavoring and perfuming agents;
preservatives and antioxidants can also be used in the composition, according to the
judgment of the formulator.
The term "either alone" may indicate that the composition contains only the
extract of Momordica Charantia, particularly, the standardised extract of Momordica
Charantia, as described herein, without any pharmaceutically acceptable excipient added
therein. It should be noted that the term "composition" should be construed in a broad
sense and includes any composition which is intended for the purpose of achieving a
therapeutic effect whether sold as a pharmaceutical product, for example carrying a label
as to the intended indication, whether sold over the counter, or whether sold as a
phytopharmaceutical .
The term "standardized extract", as used herein, refers to an extract of a plant e.g.
Momordica Charantia or a part of the plant, which contains one or more bioactive
markers (bioactive substances) in appropriate concentration. For instance, the extract may
be standardized to contain about 0.10 % to about 5.00 % by weight of total nitrogen
containing heterocyclic compounds selected from the group consisting of uridine, adenine
and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers. The total amount in which the nitrogen
containing heterocyclic compounds are contained in the extract of Momordica Charantia
can be more than 5 % by weight of t e said nitrogen containing heterocyclic compounds.
In the context of the present invention, use of the term "extract of Momordica charantia"
or "extract" may refer to "standardized extract of Momordica charantia".
As used herein, the term "about" means approximately and in the context of
numerical values the term "about" can be construed to estimate a value that is ±10% ,
preferably, ±5% of the value or range recited.
The term "bioactive markers" is used herein to define a characteristic (or a
phytochemical profile) of an active compound/compounds which is correlated with an
acceptable degree of pharmaceutical or therapeutic activity. A "bioactive marker", which
is the active compound, may be isolated from the extract obtained from Momordica
charantia by preparative HPLC or any other method known in the art. The term "bioactive
ingredients" may be used exchangeable with the term "bioactive markers" and have the
same meaning as the term "bioactive markers".
Embodiments
In an embodiment, the present invention relates to an extract of Momordica
Charantia containing one or more nitrogen containing heterocyclic compounds selected
from the group consisting of uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive
markers.
In an embodiment, the present invention relates to an extract of Momordica
Charantia containing one to three nitrogen containing heterocyclic compounds selected
from the group consisting of uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive
markers.
In another embodiment, the present invention relates to an extract of Momordica
Charantia containing uridine, and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers.
In another embodiment, the present invention relates to an extract of Momordica
Charantia containing uridine and adenine as t e bioactive markers.
In yet another embodiment, the present invention relates to an extract of
Momordica Charantia containing uridine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as t e bioactive
markers.
In another embodiment, the present invention relates to an extract of Momordica
Charantia containing adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers.
In another embodiment, the present invention relates to an extract of Momordica
Charantia containing uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers.
According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the extract of
Momordica Charantia recited in one or more embodiments stated above is enriched with
natural vitamin C and fibres.
In an embodiment, the present invention relates to an extract of Momordica
Charantia containing one or more nitrogen containing heterocyclic compounds selected
from the group consisting of uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive
markers; wherein said extract is enriched with natural vitamin C and fibres.
In an embodiment, the present invention relates to an extract of Momordica
Charantia containing one to three nitrogen containing heterocyclic compounds selected
from the group consisting of uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive
markers; wherein said extract is enriched with natural vitamin C and fibres.
In another embodiment, the present invention relates to an extract of Momordica
Charantia containing uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers;
wherein said extract is enriched with natural vitamin C and fibres.
According to an embodiment, the extract of Momordica Charantia recited in one
or more embodiments stated above is substantially free from a neurotoxic substance.
In another embodiment, the neurotoxic substance is vicine.
Thus, according to an embodiment, the present invention relates to an extract of
Momordica Charantia containing one or more nitrogen containing heterocyclic
compounds selected from the group consisting of uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy
adenosine as the bioactive markers; and wherein said extract is enriched with natural
vitamin C and fibres; wherein the said extract is substantially free from vicine.
Thus, according to an embodiment, the present invention relates to an extract of
Momordica Charantia containing one to three nitrogen containing heterocyclic
compounds selected from t e group consisting of uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy
adenosine as the bioactive markers; and wherein said extract is enriched with natural
vitamin C and fibres; wherein the said extract is substantially free from vicine.
Thus, according to an embodiment, the present invention relates to an extract of
Momordica Charantia containing uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the
bioactive markers; and wherein said extract is enriched with natural vitamin C and fibres;
wherein the said extract is substantially free from vicine.
The term "substantially free from neurotoxic substance" or "substantially free from
vicine" as used herein means an extract of Momordica Charantia recited in one or more
embodiments stated above; having a weight content of a neurotoxic substance or more
specifically vicine from 0 % to about 0.004 %; preferably below about 0.002 %, and more
preferably 0 %. All of these percentages, unless otherwise stated, refer to percent by
weight.
In another embodiment, the present invention relates to an extract of Momordica
Charantia containing from about 0.1% to about 5% by total weight of the nitrogen
containing heterocyclic compounds selected from the group consisting of uridine, adenine
and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers.
In another embodiment, the present invention relates to an extract of Momordica
Charantia containing from about 0.1 % to about 3 % by total weight of the nitrogen
containing heterocyclic compounds selected from the group consisting of uridine, adenine
and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers.
In another embodiment, the present invention relates to an extract of Momordica
Charantia containing from about 0.1 % to about 1 % by total weight of the nitrogen
containing heterocyclic compounds selected from the group consisting of uridine, adenine
and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers.
In another embodiment, the present invention relates to an extract of Momordica
Charantia containing from 0.1 % to 3% of uridine, 0.1 % to 3% of adenine and 0.1 % to
3% of 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers; wherein said extract is enriched with
natural vitamin C and fibres.
In the context of the present invention, the extract of Momordica Charantia
containing one or more nitrogen containing heterocyclic compounds selected from the
group consisting of uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers, is
referred to herein as a standardised extract.
In an embodiment, t e standardised extract refers to the extract of Momordica
Charantia containing uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers.
In an embodiment, t e standardised extract refers to the extract of Momordica
Charantia containing uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers;
wherein said extract is enriched with natural vitamin C and fibres; wherein the said extract
is substantially free from vicine.
In an aspect, the present invention relates to a process for the preparation of a
standardised extract of Momordica Charantia comprising the steps of:
a . preparing juice from fresh unripe green fruits of Momordica Charantia along
with seeds;
b. filtering the juice as obtained in step (a) to obtain an extract with suspended
particles;
c . altering pH of the juice extract as obtained in step (b) to the acidic pH range by
the addition of a natural tonic;
d . allowing the juice extract as obtained in step (c) to stand;
e . neutralising the pH of the juice extract as obtained in step (d) by using a base or
alkali;
f . adding excipients to the juice extract as obtained in step (e) to obtain a
homogenous mixture;
g . concentrating the juice extract as obtained in step (f) to a semi solid mass under
distillation;
h . drying the concentrated juice extract as obtained in step (g) to obtain dried
extract of Momordica Charantia; and
i . determining the amount of bioactive markers in the extract of Momordica
Charantia; wherein the bioactive markers are nitrogen containing heterocyclic
compounds selected from the group consisting of uridine, adenine and 2-
hydroxy adenosine .
In the process as described above, in step (i) the amount of the bioactive markers is
determined by using chromatographic methods such as HPLC method.
In one embodiment, water is optionally added while preparing the juice of the fruits
of Momordica Charantia as described in step (a).
In one embodiment, natural tonic used in step (c) is Amla pulp.
In another embodiment, in step (c) of the process, the acidic pH range of t e juice
extract is 2 to 6 .
In another embodiment, in step (c) of the process, the acidic pH range of t e juice
extract is 4 to 4.5.
In another embodiment, in step (c) of the process, the acidic pH of the juice extract
is 4.5.
In another embodiment, in step (d) of the process, the juice extract is allowed to
stand for 1minute to 2 hours.
In another embodiment, in step (d) of the process, the juice extract is allowed to
stand for 1minute to 1hour.
In another embodiment, in step (d) of the process, the juice extract is allowed to
stand for 5 to 30 minutes.
In another embodiment, in step (e) of the process, the base or alkali is selected from
the group consisting of sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide,
sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate and calcium bicarbonate.
In another embodiment, in step (e) of the process, the alkali is sodium hydroxide.
In yet another embodiment, in step (e) of the process, sodium hydroxide is used as
the alkali, in an amount ranging from 0.05% to 0.25%.
In another embodiment, in step (e) of the process, sodium hydroxide is used as the
alkali in an amount of 0.15%.
In another embodiment, in step (e) of the process, the alkali is added dropwise,
optionally with stirring.
In another embodiment, in step (f) of the process, the excipients are added under
continuous stirring.
In another embodiment, in step (f) of the process, the excipients are microcrystalline
cellulose and Aerosil.
In an embodiment, the present invention relates to a process for the preparation of a
standardised extract of Momordica Charantia comprising the steps of:
(i) preparing crude juice by crushing the fresh unripe green fruits of Momordica
Charantia along with seeds wherein water is added intermittently;
(ii) filtering the crude juice as obtained in step (i) to obtain clear juice extract with
suspended particles;
(iii) altering the pH of the juice extract as obtained in step (ii) between 4 to 4.5 by
t e addition of a natural tonic;
(iv) allowing the juice extract as obtained in step (iii) to stand for 5 to 30 minutes;
(v) neutralising t e pH of the juice extract as obtained in step (iv) by adding
dropwise an alkali with continuous stirring;
(vi) adding excipients to the juice extract as obtained in step (v) under continuous
stirring to obtain homogenous mixture;
(vii) concentrating the juice extract as obtained in step (vi) to semi solid mass under
distillation and reduced pressure;
(viii) drying the concentrated juice extract as obtained in step (vii) to obtain dried
extract of Momordica Charantia;
(ix) determining the amount of bioactive markers in the extract of Momordica
Charantia by using a chromatographic method.
In the process as described above, in step (ix) the amount of the bioactive markers
is determined by using HPLC method as the chromatographic method.
In another embodiment, the present invention relates to an extract of Momordica
Charantia obtained by the process described herein.
In one aspect, the present invention relates to a composition comprising an extract
of Momordica Charantia as recited in one or more embodiments stated above.
In one aspect, the present invention relates to a composition comprising an extract
of Momordica Charantia containing one or more nitrogen containing heterocyclic
compounds selected from the group consisting of uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy
adenosine as the bioactive markers, and wherein the said composition contains the extract
either alone or along with at least one pharmaceutically acceptable excipient.
In an embodiment, the present invention relates to a composition comprising an
extract of Momordica Charantia containing one or more nitrogen containing heterocyclic
compounds selected from the group consisting of uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy
adenosine as the bioactive markers; wherein said extract is enriched with natural vitamin C
and fibres, and wherein the said composition contains the extract either alone or along
with at least one pharmaceutically acceptable excipient.
In an embodiment, the present invention relates to a composition comprising an
extract of Momordica Charantia containing one or more nitrogen containing heterocyclic
compounds selected from t e group consisting of uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy
adenosine as the bioactive markers; wherein said extract is enriched with natural vitamin C
and fibres; and is substantially free from vicine; and wherein the said composition contains
the extract either alone or along with at least one pharmaceutically acceptable excipient.
In an embodiment, the present invention relates to a composition comprising an
extract of Momordica Charantia containing uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as
the bioactive markers; and wherein the said composition contains the extract either alone
or along with at least one pharmaceutically acceptable excipient.
In an embodiment, the present invention relates to a composition comprising an
extract of Momordica Charantia containing uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as
the bioactive markers; wherein said extract is enriched with natural vitamin C and fibres,
and wherein the said composition contains the extract either alone or along with at least
one pharmaceutically acceptable excipient.
In an embodiment, the present invention relates to a composition comprising an
extract of Momordica Charantia containing one or more nitrogen containing heterocyclic
compounds selected from the group consisting of uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy
adenosine as the bioactive markers; wherein said extract is enriched with natural vitamin C
and fibres; and is substantially free from vicine; and wherein the said composition contains
the extract either alone or along with at least one pharmaceutically acceptable excipient.
In an embodiment, the present invention relates to a composition comprising an
extract of Momordica Charantia containing uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as
the bioactive markers; wherein said extract is enriched with natural vitamin C and fibres;
and is substantially free from vicine; and wherein the said composition contains the extract
either alone or along with at least one pharmaceutically acceptable excipient.
The composition of the present invention as described herein constitutes a herbal
composition considering that the said composition comprises an extract of Momordica
Charantia as recited in one or more embodiments stated above.
In another embodiment, the extract contained in the composition of the present
invention is dried extract of Momordica Charantia.
In another embodiment, the composition of the present invention contains 0.1 %to
10 % by weight of the extract of Momordica Charantia as recited above in one or more
embodiments of the present invention.
In another embodiment, the composition of the present invention contains 0.1 %to
5 % by weight of the extract of Momordica Charantia as recited above in one or more
embodiments of the present invention.
In another embodiment, the composition of the present invention contains 0.1 %to
3 % by weight of the extract of Momordica Charantia as recited above in one or more
embodiments of the present invention.
In an embodiment, the composition of t e present invention is provided for oral
administration.
In another embodiment, the composition of the present invention can be orally
administered in a dosage form selected from, but not limited to, powder, granule, capsule,
tablet, sachet, suspension, liquid, pastille, chewing gum, lozenges or pill.
The herbal composition of the present invention may be formulated for oral
administration by compounding the active ingredient i.e. the extract of the plant
Momordica Charantia which may be a standardized extract with the usual non-toxic
pharmaceutically acceptable excipient/s for powders, pills, tablets, coated tablets, pellets,
granules, capsules, solutions, emulsions, suspensions, elixirs, syrup, and any other form
suitable for use. Formulations of the present invention encompass those which include
talc, water, glucose, lactose, sucrose, gum acacia, gelatin, mannitol, starch paste,
magnesium trisilicate, corn starch, keratin, colloidal silica, potato starch, urea, and
cellulose and its derivatives such as sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose and
cellulose acetate; malt; gelatin; as well as other non-toxic compatible lubricants such as
sodium lauryl sulfate and magnesium stearate, releasing agents, coating agents and other
excipients suitable for use in manufacturing preparations, in solid, semisolid or liquid form
and in addition auxiliary, stabilizing, thickening and coloring agents may be used. For
preparing solid compositions such as tablets or capsules, the extract is mixed with a
pharmaceutical excipient (e.g., conventional tableting ingredients such as corn starch,
lactose, sucrose, sorbitol, talc, stearic acid, magnesium stearate, dicalcium phosphate or
gums) and other pharmaceutical diluents (e.g., water) to form a solid composition. This
solid composition is then subdivided into unit dosage forms containing an effective
amount of the composition of the present invention. The tablets or pills containing the
extract can be coated or otherwise compounded to provide a dosage form affording the
advantage of prolonged action.
In an aspect, t e present invention relates to a method for the treatment of a
metabolic disorder comprising administering to a subject in need thereof a therapeutically
effective amount of an extract of Momordica Charantia containing one or more nitrogen
containing heterocyclic compounds selected from the group consisting of uridine, adenine
and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers.
In an embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for the treatment of a
metabolic disorder comprising administering to a subject in need thereof a therapeutically
effective amount of an extract of Momordica Charantia containing one or more nitrogen
containing heterocyclic compounds selected from the group consisting of uridine, adenine
and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers; wherein said extract is enriched with
natural vitamin C and fibres.
In an embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for the treatment of a
metabolic disorder comprising administering to a subject in need thereof a therapeutically
effective amount of an extract of Momordica Charantia containing one or more nitrogen
containing heterocyclic compounds selected from the group consisting of uridine, adenine
and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers; wherein said extract is enriched with
natural vitamin C and fibres ; and is substantially free from vicine.
In an embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for the treatment of a
metabolic disorder comprising administering to a subject in need thereof a therapeutically
effective amount of an extract of Momordica Charantia containing uridine, adenine and 2-
hydroxy adenosine, as the bioactive markers.
In an embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for the treatment of a
metabolic disorder comprising administering to a subject in need thereof a therapeutically
effective amount of an extract of Momordica Charantia containing uridine, adenine and 2-
hydroxy adenosine, as the bioactive markers; which is enriched with natural vitamin C
and fibres.
In an embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for the treatment of a
metabolic disorder comprising administering to a subject in need thereof a therapeutically
effective amount of an extract of Momordica Charantia containing uridine, adenine and 2-
hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers; wherein said extract is enriched with natural
vitamin C and fibres; and is substantially free from vicine.
In an aspect, t e present invention relates to a method for the treatment of a
metabolic disorder comprising administering to a subject in need thereof a therapeutically
effective amount of the composition recited above in one or more of the embodiments.
In one aspect, the present invention relates to a method for the treatment of a
metabolic disorder comprising administering to a subject in need thereof a therapeutically
effective amount of the composition comprising an extract of Momordica Charantia
containing one or more nitrogen containing heterocyclic compounds selected from the
group consisting of uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers;
wherein said extract is enriched with natural vitamin C and fibres; and is substantially free
from vicine; and wherein the said composition either contains the extract alone or along
with at least one pharmaceutically acceptable excipient.
In an embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for the treatment of a
metabolic disorder comprising administering to a subject in need thereof a therapeutically
effective amount of the composition comprising an extract of Momordica Charantia
containing uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers; wherein
said extract is enriched with natural vitamin C and fibres; and is substantially free from
vicine; and wherein the said composition either contains the extract alone or along with at
least one pharmaceutically acceptable excipient.
According to an embodiment, the metabolic disorder is selected from: insulin
resistance, hyperglycemia, diabetes (type 1 or type 2 diabetes), secondary complications
associated with diabetes, obesity, glucose intolerance, hypercholesterolemia, dyslipidemia,
hyperinsulinemia, atherosclerotic disease, polycystic ovary syndrome, coronary artery
disease, metabolic syndrome, hypertension, or a related disorder associated with abnormal
plasma lipoprotein, triglycerides or a disorder related to glucose levels such as pancreatic
cell regeneration.
According to an embodiment, the metabolic disorder is selected from insulin
resistance, hyperglycemia, diabetes, secondary complications associated with diabetes,
obesity, glucose intolerance, metabolic syndrome or a disorder related to glucose levels
such as pancreatic cell regeneration.
According to an embodiment, the metabolic disorder is diabetes or secondary
complications associated with diabetes.
According to an embodiment, the metabolic disorder is diabetes which is type 2
diabetes.
According to an embodiment, the metabolic disorder is secondary complications
associated with diabetes.
Accordingly, in an embodiment, t e present invention relates to a method for the
treatment of diabetes or secondary complications associated with diabetes comprising
administering to a subject in need thereof; a therapeutically effective amount of an extract
of Momordica Charantia containing one or more nitrogen containing heterocyclic
compounds selected from uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive
markers; which is enriched with natural vitamin C and fibres; and is substantially free
from vicine.
Accordingly, in an embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for the
treatment of diabetes or secondary complications associated with diabetes comprising
administering to a subject in need thereof; a therapeutically effective amount of an extract
of Momordica Charantia containing uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the
bioactive markers; which is enriched with natural vitamin C and fibres; and is substantially
free from vicine.
In an embodiment, the diabetes is type 2 diabetes.
Accordingly, in an embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for the
treatment of type 2 diabetes comprising administering to a subject in need thereof a
therapeutically effective amount of an extract of Momordica Charantia containing one or
more nitrogen containing heterocyclic compounds selected from uridine, adenine and 2-
hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers; which is enriched with natural vitamin C and
fibres; and is substantially free from vicine.
Accordingly, in an embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for the
treatment of type 2 diabetes comprising administering to a subject in need thereof a
therapeutically effective amount of an extract of Momordica Charantia containing uridine,
adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers; which is enriched with natural
vitamin C and fibres; and is substantially free from vicine.
Accordingly, in an embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for the
treatment of secondary complications associated with diabetes comprising administering
to a subject in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of an extract of Momordica
Charantia containing one or more nitrogen containing heterocyclic compounds selected
from the group consisting of uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive
markers; which is enriched with natural vitamin C and fibres; and is substantially free
from vicine.
Accordingly, in an embodiment, t e present invention relates to a method for the
treatment of secondary complications associated with diabetes comprising administering
to a subject in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of an extract of Momordica
Charantia containing uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers;
which is enriched with natural vitamin C and fibres; and is substantially free from vicine.
In another embodiment, the secondary complications associated with diabetes are
selected from the group consisting of diabetic neuropathy, diabetic cataract and
retinopathy, diabetic corneal keratopathy, diabetic nephropathy, diabetic dermopathy,
diabetic foot ulcers and other diabetic microangiopathies.
The selected dosage level depends upon a variety of factors including the activity
of the particular extract of the present invention employed, the route of administration, the
time of administration, the rate of excretion of the particular composition being employed,
the duration of the treatment, used in combination with the other extracts, the age, sex,
weight, condition, general health and prior medical history of the patient being treated, and
like factors well known in the medical arts. In general, however, doses employed for adult
human treatment will typically be in the range of 0.02-5000 mg per day or 1-1500 mg per
day. The desired dose may conveniently be presented in a single dose or as divided doses
administered at appropriate intervals, for example as two, three, four or more sub-doses
per day.
It will be appreciated that compositions, medicaments and extracts according to the
present invention can be used alone or alternatively can also be used in combination with
other plant extracts, compositions or therapeutically active compounds (provided that
those compounds do not inhibit the anti-diabetic properties of the extract or herbal
composition according to the invention). Accordingly, the present invention also relates to
the extract or the composition containing the extract as recited herein; for use in
combination with a further 'therapeutically active agent' for the treatment of a metabolic
disorder, particularly diabetes or complications associated with diabetes.
The therapeutically active agent can be selected from the known drugs or bioactive
substances, including, but not limited to, orlistat, pioglitazone, rosiglitazone,
glibenclamide, glipizide, glimeperide, repaglinide, nateglinide, or metformin.
In the aspects and embodiments of the present invention as well as t e appended
claims, it is intended to refer to the fruit of Momordica Charantia whenever reference to
Momordica Charantia is made.
The following examples illustrate t e invention. They do not however, limit the
invention in any way. In this regard, it is important to understand that the particular assay
used in the Examples section is designed only to provide an indication of anti-diabetic
activity. There are many ways available to determine such activity, and a negative result in
any one particular way is therefore not determinative.
The term once described, the same meaning applies for it, throughout the patent.
Example 1:
Preparation of the extract of Momordica Charantia
Step - 1:
Preparation of Amla pulp
The fresh, amla fruits commercially available, were obtained from local market from
Mumbai, Maharashtra, India were sorted out for any physical damage and cleaned to
remove the superfluous particles from the fruits. The cleaned fruits were cut into small
pieces. The pieces of amla fruits were taken in a mixer along with equal amount of water
(1:1) and the mixture was ground well in order to obtain a uniform juice of the fruit. The
lumps or other parts of the fruits, if any, are removed from the juice. This obtained juice
was directly used for the pH adjustment of the Momordica Charantia juice extract.
Step - II
Preparation of the extract of Momordica Charantia:
Step - IIA:
The fresh unripe green fruits of Momordica Charantia along with seeds
commercially available, were obtained from local market from Mumbai, Maharashtra,
India, were cleaned to remove the superfluous particles from the fruits. The cleaned fruits
were cut into the small pieces and charged in a mill. The small pieces of fruit charged in
the mill were ground during which the distilled demineralised water was added
intermittently. The crude juice was obtained and the same was weighed.
Step - IIB:
The crude juice obtained in step IIA was filtered using centrifuge, filter press, sieve
or nylon cloth (100 mesh nylon cloth) to obtain clear juice extract with suspended
particles. The residue that was left over after the filtration was removed. The filtrate (the
clear juice extract) was taken for further treatments. The pH of the juice extract with the
suspended particles was adjusted from 4 to 4.5 by the addition of Amla pulp (270 ml per
litre of the juice extract) prepared as per the procedure given in step I, with continuous
stirring. The stirring of juice was continued for 10 - 15 minutes after adding the Amla
pulp to obtain the juice extract having pH in the aforesaid range. The pH of the juice
extract is checked after stirring and if the pH of the juice extract is not in the specified
range, it is required to add Amla pulp. The juice extract was allowed to stand for 5 to 25
minutes.
Step - IIC
The stabilised juice extract obtained in step IIB above was neutralized to a pH
range of 7 to 7.2 by adding 15% Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution (10 mL/litre of the
juice extract). The neutralised juice extract was stirred continuously for 10 - 15 minutes
after the addition of NaOH solution. The pH of the juice extract is checked to ensure that it
is in the specified range, if not, NaOH solution is further added. This is followed by
addition of 0.15% (15 g/litre of juice extract) of microcrystalline cellulose and 0.15% (15
g/litre of juice extract) of Aerosil to the neutralized juice extract and the mixture was
stirred well for 10 minutes to get the homogeneous mixture of juice extract.
Step - IIP
The homogenous juice extract, obtained in step IIC, was transferred to a chamber
and was concentrated to semi solid consistency mass by means of distillation at the
temperature of 60°C ± 5°C at reduced pressure [700 mm of Hg]. The concentrated juice
was subjected to drying using a suitable dryer such as freeze dryer or spray dryer at 55 °C
± 5°C for complete removal of the water to obtain juice extract powder.
The yield of the extract calculated was 4.0 - 4.5 Kg with respect to fresh fruits of
Momordica Charantia. The ratio of fresh fruits Momordica Charantia to the extract was
found to be 25: 1.
Extract so obtained in Step IID is referred to herein as "Extract of Example 1".
Example 2:
Preparation of Capsules
The Extract of Example 1 and the excipients (microcrystalline cellulose, aerosol,
Dicalcium phosphate) were sifted into the mass mixer through 30 mesh and 40 mesh
respectively into the mass mixer and the sifted materials were mixed properly. The blend
was then granulated using Povidone (PVPK-30) in order to obtain the wet granules. The
wet granules were dried into the tray dryer at the temperature of 50°C ± 5°C. The dried
granules were sifted into the mass mixer. The lubricant materials (Talc and Magnesium
stearate) were sifted and mixed properly with dried granules into mass mixer. The
obtained granules were filled into hard gelatine capsule shells. The composition of each
capsule containing Extract of Example 1 is given below.
Example 3: Stability studies of capsules
3A: Method for determining content of bitter:
3 g of sample and 0.5 g calcium carbonate was added in a 250 mL beaker. Pumice pieces
were added, the mixture was then extracted with boiling distilled water to obtain powder.
The powder obtained was allowed to settle and the supernatant liquid was filtered through
cotton in another flask. The extraction was repeated to obtain pale yellow extract. The
extracted liquid was collected in a 250 mL beaker, boiled and concentrated to obtain 10
mL of concentrated extract. Rectified spirit (alcohol) 20 mL was then added and kept on a
water bath. As it starts boiling it was removed, t e residue was allowed to settle and t e
supernatant liquid was filtered through filter paper. The extraction was continued to obtain
pale yellow extract. The pale yellow extract obtained was evaporated in evaporating dish
and kept on water bath to evaporate alcohol completely. The residue obtained was diluted
with about 15 mL distilled water, transferred in a separator and extracted with ethyl
acetate (4-5 times) to complete the extraction. Ethyl acetate extract obtained was given
washing with distilled water, the water layer was discarded and ethyl acetate layer was
evaporated on water bath to obtain the residue. The residue obtained was kept in an oven
at 105°C, cooled it in a desiccator to attain room temperature and was weighed to obtain
the constant weight.
The bitter content was determined according to the following formula:
Bitter (% w/w) = Weight of the residue X 100 / Weight of the sample
Bitter (mg/capsule) = Bitter (% w/w) X (average filled weight in g X 1000 / 100)
3B: Method for determining content of proteins (by automated protein analyzer):
Digestion: lg of sample was taken in a Kjeldahl tube. Sodium sulphate (9.95g), copper
sulphate (0.05 g) and concentrated sulphuric acid (20 mL) were added in the tube.
Samples were digested for 30 minutes after a clear.
Distillation: Kjeldahl tube was fitted to the distillation unit. Water 10 mL and 32% sodium
hydroxide (90 mL) was added to the sample. Distillation was carried out and the distillate
was collected in 60 mL of 4% Boric acid solution of pH 4.65.
Titration: Boric acid solution was titrated with 0.25 M (0.5N) sulphuric acid to pH 4.65.
Blank and sample were titrated.
The protein content was determined according to the following formula:
Calculations:
% proteins (w/w) = (Sample reading - Blank reading) X 1.4007 X 6.25 X NF
Sample weight
wherein,
NF represents Normality Factor of 0.5 N sulphuric acid;
1.4007 represents a single factor that takes into account the molecular weight of nitrogen,
t e conversion of the milliequivalent result of V*N, and the conversion to %
6.25 represents protein factor.
Protein (mg/capsule) = Protein (% w/w) X (average filled weight in g X 1000 / 100)
3C: Microbiological tests: The Microbiological tests were performed as per United States
Pharmacopoeia-37, volume I, 2014, chapters 2021, 2022 and 2023 specification and
British Pharmacopoeia volume V, 2014, Appendix XVI F and G (A474-A476).
Table 1 : Stability studies of capsules
Staphylococcus
Absent Absent Absent Absent Absent
aureus
Pseudomonas
Absent Absent Absent Absent Absent
aeruginosa
Clostridium spp. Absent Absent Absent Absent Absent
Conclusion: It was observed that t e capsules packed in HDPE container are stable at
40°C over a period of 6 months.
Example 4: Determination of content of bioactive markers in the Extract of Example
1.
The content of bioactive markers (uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine)
present in the Extract of Example 1 of Momordica Charantia was determined by the
chromatographic method such as the HPLC method. It was found that the extract of
example 1 contains uridine (0.3 %), adenine (0.2 %) and 2-hydroxyadenosine (0.3 %).
METHOD
A. Uridine Standard solution: 5.0 mg of Uridine was transferred into a 50 mL
volumetric flask, 25 mL of diluent (Water: Methanol 90:10) was added and was
sonicated. 5 ml of solution was pipette out and transferred into a 25 ml volumetric
flask.
B. Sample Preparation: Dissolved 0.5 g of Extract of Example 1 in 25 mL of
water methanol (90:10). The mixture was filtered through whattmann filter paper No.
1 and filtrate analyzed by HPLC.
Analytical HPLC conditions:
Column : Hypersil BDS C-18, 250 mm x 4.6mm, 5
Mobile phase A : Phosphate Buffer 3.0
Mobile phase B : acetonitrile
Gradient : time (minutes)/% A: 0/90, 25/60, 30/20,35/20,36/90,40/90
Flow rate : 1.0 mL/minute.
Detector : UV
Detection wavelength : 261 nm.
Injection volume : 20
Run time : 40 minutes
Temperature : Ambient
Diluent : watermethanol (90:10)
The content of Uridine was determined according to t e following formula:
Calculation:
Content of Uridine (% w/w) = (Sample Area / Standard Area) X (Dilution factor of
Standard / Dilution factor of Sample) X % Purity of Standard
Uridine (mg/capsule) = Uridine (% w/w) X (average filled weight in g X 1000 / 100)
Example 5: Determination of the content of Vicine in the Extract of Example 1
The commercially available juice extracts of Momordica Charantia suffer from
drawbacks due to t e presence of neurotoxins which can adversely affect function in both
developing and mature nervous tissue during the prolonged administration. Vicine is one
of the widely known neurotoxins, which is toxic and capable of causing severe adverse
effects.
The extract of Momordica Charantia of the present invention was analysed to
determine content of vicine, if any, by using the chromatographic method and based on
the analysis it was found that Extract of Example 1, is free from vicine. Comparative data in
respect of the content of vicine in the Extract of Example 1Momordica Charantia with the
commercially available extracts of Momordica Charantia is presented in Table - 2 . The
commercially available extracts are referred to herein as Reference Extract 1, Reference
Extract 2, Reference Extract 3, Reference Extract 4, Reference Extract 5, Reference
Extract 6, Reference Extract 7, Reference Extract 8, and Reference Extract 9.
Table - 2: Comparison of the content of vicine in the extract with the commercially
available juice extracts of Momordica Charantia
4 Reference Extract 4 KP/MC/013/12 0.671
5 Reference Extract 5 KP/MC/014/12 0.065
6 Reference Extract 6 KKL/746 0.259
7 Reference Extract 7 165033 3.761
8 Reference Extract 8 KP/05052013 0.455
9 Reference Extract 9 CL/MC/001/13 0.963
10 Extract of Example 1 019022013 Not detected
Biological Activity
Example 6:
A patient having non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (Type 2 diabetes) is
administered with three capsules of t e Extract of Example 1 per day. Each capsule
contains 400 mg of the extract of example 1 as per the Example 2
The Extract of Example 1 is found to have an activity on lowering the blood
glucose level of the patient undergoing the treatment.
We Claim:
1. An extract of Momordica Charantia containing one or more nitrogen containing
heterocyclic compounds selected from the group consisting of uridine, adenine and 2-
hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers.
2. The extract according to claim 1, wherein the said extract contains uridine, adenine
and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers.
3. The extract according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the said extract contains about 0.1
% to about 5 % by total weight of uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the
bioactive markers.
4. The extract according to any one of the claims 1 to 3, wherein the said extract is
enriched with natural vitamin C and fibres, and wherein the said extract is substantially
free from vicine.
5. A composition comprising a therapeutically effective amount of a standardised extract
of Momordica Charantia containing one or more of nitrogen containing heterocyclic
compounds selected from the group consisting of uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy
adenosine as the bioactive markers, either alone or along with at least one
pharmaceutically acceptable excipient.
6. The composition according to claim 5, wherein the said standardised extract contains
uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy adenosine as the bioactive markers.
7. The composition according to claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the said standardised extract
contains about 0.1% to about 5 % by total weight uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy
adenosine as the bioactive markers.
8. The composition according to any one of the claims 5 to 7, wherein the said
standardised extract is enriched with natural vitamin C and fibres, and wherein the said
extract is substantially free from vicine.
9. The composition according to any one of the claims 5 to 8, wherein the said
composition is provided for oral administration.
10. A method for the treatment of a metabolic disorder comprising administering to a
subject in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of the extract as claimed in
any one of the claims 1 to 4.
11. A method for the treatment of a metabolic disorder comprising administering to a
subject in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of the composition as
claimed in any one of the claims 5 to 8.
12. The method according to claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the metabolic disorder is
diabetes or secondary complications associated with diabetes.
13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the metabolic disorder is diabetes. .
14. The method according to claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the diabetes is type 2 diabetes.
15. The method according to claim 12, wherein the metabolic disorder is secondary
complications associated with diabetes.
16. A process for the preparation of a standardised extract of Momordica Charantia
comprising the steps of:
a) preparing juice from fresh unripe green fruits of Momordica Charantia along with
seeds;
b) filtering the juice as obtained in step (a) to obtain an extract with suspended
particles;
c) altering pH of the juice extract as obtained in step (b) to the acidic pH range by the
addition of a natural tonic;
d) allowing the juice extract as obtained in step (c) to stand;
e) neutralising the pH of the juice extract as obtained in step (d) by using a base or
alkali;
f adding excipients to the juice extract as obtained in step (e) to obtain a
homogenous mixture;
g) concentrating the juice extract as obtained in step (f to a semi solid mass under
distillation;
h) drying the concentrated juice extract as obtained in step (g) to obtain dried extract
of Momordica Charantia; and
i) determining the amount of bioactive markers in the extract of Momordica
Charantia; wherein the bioactive markers are nitrogen containing heterocyclic
compounds selected from the group consisting of uridine, adenine and 2-hydroxy
adenosine.