Joshi et al1 have evaluated the long-term safety of Praneem, a candidate vaginal microbicide by a randomised phase II clinical trial in Pune, India. They have found that Praneem polyherbal tablet is safe for vaginal use up to 6 months among low-risk women.1 In response to the above study we would like to mention here that another novel polyherbal formulation Basant, which contains purified diferuloylmethane (curcumin), purified extracts of Emblica officinalis (designated amla), purified aloe vera powder and rose extract water is also in the investigational stage.

Talwar et al2 have developed this novel polyherbal formulation, which qualifies for all the criteria of being a microbicide. Initially it was formulated as a cream …