Analytical Evaluation and HPTLC Fingerprinting of Pippalyadi Taila Prepared

Abstract

Pippalyadi Taila is a classical Ayurvedic medicated oil formulation described in Charaka Samhita Arsha Chikitsa Adhyaya and used also in disorders associated with vitiated Vata Dosha, Udavarta, Moodhavaata and Shoola. Standardization of Ayurvedic formulations is essential to ensure quality, safety, efficacy, reproducibility and batch-to-batch consistency. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the organoleptic and physicochemical characteristics of Pippalyadi Taila and to establish its High-Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) fingerprint profile. HPTLC fingerprint profiling serves as a reliable analytical tool for identifying characteristic phytochemical constituents present in the Taila. The generated chromatographic fingerprint helps detect adulteration and ensures reproducibility of the formulation. The formulation was subjected to organoleptic evaluation, physicochemical analysis and HPTLC fingerprinting in an AYUSH-approved laboratory. HPTLC fingerprinting was performed on silica gel 60 F254 plates using n-Hexane:Diethyl ether (7:3 v/v) as the mobile phase, with detection at 254nm, 366nm and 540nm. Results: The sample was a yellowish-green oil with characteristic odour and taste. Specific gravity was 0.92, viscosity 36.11 cP, refractive index 1.468, acid value 0.0, peroxide value 8.24, saponification value 203.89, and iodine value 115.7. HPTLC analysis resolved nine bands at 254nm and 366nm and eight bands at 540nm, indicating the presence of diverse phytoconstituents derived from the formulation ingredients. Conclusion: The physicochemical parameters and HPTLC fingerprint profile generated in this study establish preliminary analytical reference standards for Pippalyadi Taila, supporting its identity, purity, and quality control for future clinical and research applications.