Vaginal itching is a common and typically harmless condition that most women experience at some point in their lives. It can be triggered by a variety of factors, including infections, hormonal changes, sexually transmitted diseases, prolonged use of medications such as birth control pills, or poor vaginal hygiene. Additionally, certain skin conditions, such as psoriasis, eczema, or a vaginal yeast infection, can contribute to the irritation. In rare cases, it may be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition, such as vulvar cancer. If left untreated, vaginal itching can potentially lead to serious complications or, in extreme cases, become life-threatening [1].

Treating these conditions with oral medications is as important as topical therapies [2]. Female genital disorders are treated using antibiotics, antifungals, antiprotozoals, and other medications administered both orally and topically. The sthanik chikitsa (local treatment) recommended by the ancient Acharyas has shown excellent and satisfactory results in the management of stree roga (gynecological disorders). These localized therapies are particularly effective in treating tryavarta yoni disease [3]. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 333 million new cases of treatable vulvovaginal infections occur globally each year. A study conducted in India reported a 37% prevalence of reproductive tract infections based on symptoms and a 36.7% prevalence based on laboratory findings. Among these cases, 31% were due to candidiasis, 3% to gonorrhea, 2% to trichomoniasis, and 45% to bacterial vaginosis [4].

Using intimate wash is important for maintaining vaginal health. It helps preserve the natural pH balance of the vagina, which is essential for preventing infections and discomfort. Practicing proper intimate hygiene can significantly reduce the risk of bacterial and fungal infections, including yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis [5]. Using a gentle, specially formulated wash for the intimate area can help eliminate odor-causing bacteria and keep the area feeling clean and refreshed [6]. Additionally, regular use of an intimate wash can enhance overall comfort and confidence, helping women feel clean and hygienic throughout the day. In essence, a female intimate wash plays a vital role in supporting women’s reproductive health and overall well-being [7].

Yoniprakshalana kwatha (intimate wash decoction) [8] is the formulation described in the Yogratnakar for the treatment of yonikandu and includes triphala, gudhuchi, and dantimul. In this study, this traditional kwatha will be adapted into a ready-to-use surfactant-based vaginal wash, named YOSHA. The term “YOSHA” signifies “woman” (stree) [9]. The name “YOSHA” is derived from the words yoni (“YO”) and wash (“SH”), symbolizing a product designed specifically for cleansing the yoni (vagina) and intended for women. This modified version of a medicated intimate wash, enriched with the benefits of traditional herbs, offers a more convenient and travel-friendly alternative to the freshly prepared kwatha (decoction). Compared with the original decoction, the improved formulation ensures easier use, thoroughly cleanses the vaginal area, and provides a refreshing, hygienic effect. This intimate wash is based on the classical formulation for yoniprakshalan kwatha described in ancient Ayurvedic texts, particularly the Yogratnakar. This study aims to formulate a modification of yoniprakshalan kwatha as an intimate wash (YOSHA) and to conduct a comparative quality control assessment and in vitro evaluation of antimicrobial activity.

Maintaining vaginal hygiene is essential, especially in today’s fast-paced world, where working women and school-going girls are frequently exposed to public restrooms. While there are several intimate wash products available on the market, many contain harsh chemicals that can lead to side effects such as dryness and itching.

To address this, we have developed a simplified and user-friendly version of yonidhavan kwatha. Unlike the traditional formulation, which has a short shelf life of about 24 hours, YOSHA is designed in a surfactant-based form that is both effective and convenient. It helps maintain healthy vaginal pH and ensures thorough daily cleansing.

YOSHA is travel friendly, easy to handle, and simple to use, eliminating the need for complex preparation. By offering this product, we support women in maintaining their intimate health and well-being with comfort and confidence.

This study aims to formulate a modification of yoniprakshalan kwatha as an intimate wash (YOSHA) and to conduct a comparative quality control assessment and in vitro evaluation of antimicrobial activity.

The objective of this study is to prepare yoniprakshalan kwatha as per the classical reference of Yogratnakar and to develop its modified dosage form, YOSHA. Additionally, the study aims to assess the quality control parameters of both yoniprakshalan kwatha and YOSHA to ensure their safety and efficacy. Furthermore, the antimicrobial effects of both formulations will be investigated, with a comparative analysis conducted to evaluate and contrast the antimicrobial activity of YOSHA and yoniprakshalan kwatha.

An in vitro experimental study will be conducted at the Central Microbiology Laboratory of Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, a constituent of the Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, located in Sawangi (Meghe), Wardha, Maharashtra. The study will be conducted between July 2025 and December 2025.

The research drugs will be procured from Vedpoorna Ayurveda Rasashala, Mahatma Gandhi Ayurved College Hospital and Research Centre (MGACHRC), Salod (H), Wardha. The Dravyaguna Department at MGACHRC will be responsible for the authentication and verification of the raw drugs. These raw materials will be standardized according to the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India guidelines. Necessary studies will be conducted at certified or recognized institutes, organizations, or laboratories of national repute, as endorsed or recommended by the Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research. An experimental study will be conducted at the Department of Rasashastra and Bhaishajya Kalpana, MGACHRC, from July 2025 to December 2025.

The data management plan will follow strict protocols for accurate entry, coding, security, and storage to ensure data integrity. Standardized methods, including double entry for key data and range checks, will minimize errors. Data will be coded according to established guidelines to support analysis. Security measures such as restricted access, encryption, and secure storage (both electronic and physical) will be implemented. Regular backups will prevent data loss, and all procedures will be detailed in the study protocol for transparency.

Yoniprakshalan kwatha (intimate wash decoction) is an important herbo-mineral formulation described in a book by Vaidya Lakshmpati Sastri, published by Chaukhamba Prakashan, Varanasi, with a Hindi commentary by Bhisagratna and Brahmasankar Sastri. This formulation holds significant therapeutic value and contains ingredients such as guduchi, amalaki, haritaki, bibhitaki, and (Table 1) dantimul. It is primarily indicated for the treatment of yoni kandu (vaginal itching).

In the first step, yoniprakshalan kwatha will be prepared according to the textual reference and in the second step, its modified dosage form, YOSHA, will be prepared as mentioned in the following sections (Table 2).

This study will evaluate the antimicrobial activity of yoniprakshalan kwatha and YOSHA using the agar well diffusion method [16].

Data analysis will be conducted using SPSS (version 17; IBM Corp). Three groups—YOSHA, yoniprakshalan kwatha, and a standard antimicrobial control—will be compared, with a minimum of 9 replicates per group. Descriptive statistics will include means (SD) for continuous variables and percentages for categorical data. Normality and homogeneity of variance will be assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test and the Levene test, respectively. One-way ANOVA will be applied to compare antimicrobial activity (zone of inhibition), followed by the Tukey honestly significant difference post hoc test if significant differences are found (P<.05). If ANOVA assumptions are violated, nonparametric alternatives such as the Kruskal-Wallis test will be used. Regression analysis will be performed if dose-response data are available. This approach ensures statistical validity and reliable comparisons between formulations.

Ethical approval for the research has been granted by the Institutional Ethics Committee (MGACHRC/IEC/Jun-2024/854) of the Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education & Research, Salod (H), Wardha-442004, Maharashtra.

This study is expected to demonstrate that YOSHA, a modified formulation of yoniprakshalan kwatha, will demonstrate strong in vitro antimicrobial activity, particularly against C albicans and E coli. Designed as a modern, surfactant-based intimate wash, YOSHA is expected to meet the pharmaceutical standards of stability, safety, and usability while preserving Ayurvedic therapeutic principles. The aim is to convert a traditional decoction into a stable, ready-to-use product with improved shelf life and consistent quality. YOSHA may offer a safer, more convenient alternative to commercial feminine hygiene products, many of which can disrupt vaginal pH or flora [29].

While Ayurvedic treatments, such as yoniprakshalan kwatha, are traditionally used for vaginal conditions such as yoni kandu [30], their practical application is limited by preparation complexity and short shelf life [31]. YOSHA addresses these gaps through standardized pharmaceutical development. Although the individual herbs used (triphala, guduchi, and dantimul) have known antimicrobial properties [32], their combined and stabilized use in topical form remains underexplored. The strengths of this study lie in its grounding in classical texts, the use of validated preparation methods, and laboratory testing. However, as an in vitro study, it lacks clinical data. In addition, user acceptability, long-term stability, and postmarket outcomes also need further evaluation. Future research directions include clinical trials, enhanced formulations, user-focused adaptations, and sustainable manufacturing practices. These steps will help to validate the efficacy of YOSHA and support its integration into modern female hygiene care.

This protocol will be published in the form of a thesis to share our research on Ayurvedic intimate wash. The thesis will provide a thorough overview of the study’s design, methodology, data gathering methods, data analysis plan, and ethical considerations. We hope that by making this protocol public, we will contribute to expanding knowledge in the field and promoting future research efforts.

The study will show that YOSHA, a modern herbal product based on the traditional Ayurvedic yoniprakshalan kwatha, has strong in vitro antimicrobial effects against common vaginal pathogens and meets the pharmaceutical quality and safety standards. Unlike raw decoctions, it offers a stable, user-friendly formulation that blends traditional knowledge with scientific validation. Strengths include classical preparation methods, solid quality control, and reliable results. Future work should involve clinical trials, broader testing, and user-focused evaluations. Findings will be shared through journals, conferences, and practitioner outreach to promote YOSHA as a natural option for women’s hygiene.