India had foiled an attempt by consumer goods giant Colgate-Palmolive to patent a mouthwash formula containing herb extract by citing ancient texts that show it was traditionally used in ancient medicinal practices.

Traditional Knowledge Digital Library of Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR-TKDL) had submitted proof in the form of references from ancient books, which said the herb and its extracts of Myristica Fragrans were used for oral diseases in Indian systems of medicine. In addition, other third party observations also made submissions against the claims.

Meanwhile, various institutions of CSIR filed applications for 14 patents were in India and for 22 abroad. One patents were granted in India and 14 abroad.

Shares of the company gained Rs 23.4, or 1.16%, to settle at Rs 2,037.15. The total volume of shares traded was 9,176 at the BSE (Thursday).