Synthesis and characterization of Sajjikshara derived from two distinct sources: herbal and mineral

Sajjikshara is derived from both plant and mineral sources. It is important to note that the API does not specify standards for Sajjikshara obtained from herbal and Mineral sources. Therefore, a comparative physicochemical analysis is essential to determine its composition.

This study was designed to compare Sajjikshara prepared from two distinct sources: herbal-mineral, in terms of pharmaceutics and analytical parameters.

Sajjikshara was prepared using the ash of Duaralabha Panchang (the whole plant of Fagonia cretica Linn.) and Sajjimitti (a special type of soil) according to textual references from Rasa Tarangini and Rasajalanidhi. Both herbal and mineral Sajjikshara (Sajjikshara-H and M, respectively) were analysed using various physicochemical parameters, phytochemical parameters, and concentrations of sodium (Na), potassium (K), carbonate, hydroxide, sulfate, and nitrate groups, as well as microbial load, aflatoxin concentration, and heavy metals (arsenic, mercury, and lead). X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was conducted to identify the crystals, and Fourier transform Infra-Red (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to determine the functional groups present in both types of Sajjikshara.

The pH of both Sajjikshara types is approximately the same, exhibiting an alkaline nature. Sajjikshara-M has a higher percentage of ash value, acid-insoluble ash, and concentrations of Na, K, and carbonate groups. The absence of heavy metals, microbial load, and aflatoxins in both Sajjikshara indicates careful preparation. FTIR and XRD analyses of both Sajjikshara types reveal the presence of carbonate crystals.

Sajjikshara derived from minerals contains a higher percentage of sodium, carbonates, and is cost-effective.