Physicochemical Characterization and Heavy Metal Analysis of Menisamoola Parpam: A Siddha Herbo-Mineral Formulation

Abstract

Menisamoola Parpam is a Siddha herbo-mineral formulation traditionally used in the management of respiratory disorders. Standardization of Siddha medicines through physicochemical and heavy metal analysis is essential to ensure their quality, safety, and efficacy. Objective: To evaluate the physicochemical parameters and heavy metal content of Menisamoola Parpam. Materials and Methods: The prepared sample of Menisamoola Parpam was subjected to physicochemical evaluation, including pH, total ash, acid-insoluble ash, and loss on drying. Heavy metal analysis for lead, cadmium, arsenic, and mercury was carried out in a NABL-accredited laboratory following standard AYUSH protocols. Results: The physicochemical analysis revealed a total ash value of 84.15%, acid-insoluble ash of 10.09%, pH of 11.09, and loss on drying of 0.71%. Heavy metal analysis showed lead (0.0086mg/L), cadmium (0.0001mg/L), arsenic (1.3010µg/L), and mercury (0.5091µg/L). All heavy metal concentrations were found to be within the WHO permissible limits. Conclusion: The results indicate that Menisamoola Parpam possesses acceptable physicochemical characteristics and complies with WHO safety limits for heavy metals. The formulation can therefore be considered safe with respect to heavy metal contamination and suitable for further pharmacological and clinical investigations.