An Analytical Study of Dashmooladi Ghrita- A Polyherbal Compound

Background: Dashmooladi Ghrita is a classical Ayurvedic polyherbal formulation described in the Ayurvedic literature Charaka Samhita indicated in Vata Vyadhi Vikara. In view of its therapeutic utility and increasing clinical relevance, establishment of pharmacognostic and analytical quality standards is essential in accordance with AYUSH and API guidelines. Objective: To evaluate the pharmacognostic and physicochemical parameters and develop a chromatographic fingerprint of Dashmooladi Ghrita for quality standardization, as per Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API) guidelines. Materials and Methods: Dashmooladi Ghrita was prepared in accordance with classical references following Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). The formulation comprises medicinal ingredients: Dashamoola, a group of ten roots extensively used in Ayurveda for their Vata-shamaka, Shothahara (anti-inflammatory), Vedanasthapana (analgesic), and jeevaniye dravyas for Balya (strength-promoting) properties. Dashamoola and jeevaniya drugs are widely indicated in inflammatory disorders, neuromuscular diseases, and pediatric illnesses where Vata Dosha predominance is evident. Above formulations have been evaluated on the basis of organoleptic characters like colour, appearance and odour, Physio-chemical like Rancidity, Moisture, iodine value, Refractive Index, saponification value, specific gravityetc and Finger printing by Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC). Results:Organoleptic evaluation revealed a alge green colored viscous formulation with a Characteristic odour. Physicochemical analysis showed Parameters include rancidity was absent, saponification value was 267.74, iodine value 30.37, refractive index 1.4543, acid value 2.12 and moisture was 0.11%. TLC analysis demonstrated distinct The Rf values for these spots were observed at 0.45, 0.59 and 0.78 at 365nm, indicating the presence of multiple phyto-constituents. Conclusion:The findings of the present study establish preliminary pharmacognostic, physicochemical, and chromatographic standards for Dashmooladi Ghrita. These parameters may serve as reference quality control benchmarks for ensuring the identity, purity, and consistency of the formulation, in accordance with AYUSH and API requirements.