Standardization of the ayurvedic formulation Haridra Khanda using high-performance thin-layer...

Area of Science:

• Phytochemistry
• Ayurvedic Medicine
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Ayurvedic formulations require standardization for consistent therapeutic efficacy.
• Haridra Khanda, a traditional remedy, utilizes Curcuma longa (turmeric) as a primary ingredient.
• Standardization ensures the quality, safety, and potency of herbal medicines.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish standardized physicochemical parameters for Haridra Khanda.
• To develop and validate a High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatographic (HPTLC) method for quantifying bioactive curcuminoids in Haridra Khanda.
• To ensure the absence of toxic heavy metals in the formulation.

Main Methods:

• Physicochemical analyses including extractive values and ash content were performed as per Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India.
• Microscopic evaluation confirmed the presence of Curcuma longa botanical markers.
• Trace metal analysis was conducted using techniques to detect heavy metals (As, Cd, Hg, Pb).
• High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) was employed for fingerprinting and quantification of curcuminoids (curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, bisdemethoxycurcumin).

Main Results:

• Standardized physicochemical profiles were established for Haridra Khanda.
• Microscopic analysis confirmed the botanical identity of Curcuma longa.
• Absence of toxic heavy metals (As, Cd, Hg, Pb) was confirmed.
• A validated HPTLC method demonstrated high precision (CV < 1.11%), accuracy (mean recovery > 98.6%), and linearity (r > 0.999) for quantifying curcuminoids.
• HPTLC fingerprinting provided a characteristic profile for the formulation.

Conclusions:

• The study successfully standardized Haridra Khanda using established physicochemical and chromatographic methods.
• The developed HPTLC method is suitable for accurate and reliable quantification of key bioactive markers in Curcuma longa-based formulations.
• This standardization ensures the quality control and therapeutic consistency of Haridra Khanda.