Physicochemical and Phytochemical Analysis of Siddha Polyherbal Formulation Inji Podi

Abstract

Aim: Standardization of Siddha polyherbal formulation is more important to ensure its safety, efficacy and also for global acceptance. This study aims at quality standards and the phytochemical estimation of Siddha polyherbal formulation Inji Podi (IP) through modern analytical screening. Methods: The standardization of Inji Podi was carried out in accordance with the guidelines prescribed by the Pharmacopeial Laboratory for Indian Medicine (PLIM). Physicochemical analysis, phytochemical analysis, pesticide residue, microbial load, aflatoxin analysis was carried out as per PLIM guidelines. HPTLC fingerprint profiling of Inji Podi (IP) was taken. Result: Physicochemical analysis of Inji Podi shows the loss on drying (5.21%), the total ash value (4.73%), while acid-insoluble ash (1.05%), water-soluble ash (1.60%). The extractive values, both water-soluble (17.05%) and alcohol-soluble (17.45%). The pH (4.95) indicates a mildly acidic nature. The microbial limit analysis showed that the total microbial plate count (5.9×10³cfu/g) and total yeast and mold count (5.1×10² cfu/g) were within permissible limits for herbal formulations and absence of Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The pesticide residue analysis demonstrated that most of the tested pesticides were either not detected or present within the permissible limits prescribed by the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API). The aflatoxin analysis revealed that aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 were below the limit of quantification (BLQ). The HPTLC fingerprint profiling of Inji Podi at different wavelengths (254nm and 366nm) indicating the presence of diverse phytoconstituents. CONCLUSION: From the set of parameters, it can be concluded that the Siddha polyherbal formulation Inji Podi meets standard quality and safety parameters. Physicochemical and microbial analysis was within permissible limits, pesticide residues were acceptable, and aflatoxins were below quantification levels. The presence of key phytoconstituents and a characteristic HPTLC fingerprint support its identity and therapeutic potential. Overall, the formulation is safe, standardized, and suitable for medicinal use.