Pharmaceutical and Analytical Standardization of Ajamoda Arka with Yavakshara Through Physicochemical Evaluation, HPTLC Profiling, GC–MS Characterization, and Safety Assessment

Abstract

Background:
Digestive disorders such as Vataja Udarashoola (abdominal colic) are commonly encountered in pediatric clinical practice. In Ayurveda, these conditions are attributed to Agnimandya, Ama accumulation and vitiation of Vata–Kapha Dosha, resulting in impaired digestion and abdominal discomfort. Classical Ayurvedic formulations such as Ajamoda Arka and Yavakshara are indicated in the management of the above conditions owing to their Deepana, Pachana and Vatanulomana properties.

Objective:

The objective of this work is to analytically standardize Ajamoda Arka with Yavakshara by testing its organoleptic, physicochemical, chromatographic, microbial properties, Heavy metal and Pesticides following standard guidelines.

Materials and Methods:

The preparation of Ajamoda Arka is done according to “Arka Kalpana” given in AFI. Yavakshara prepared using AFI guidelines is mixed with distilled Ajamoda Arka in a specific ratio. “Organoleptic characters”, “clarity”, “pH”, “specific gravity”, “refractive index”, “viscosity”, “volatile matter”, “total acidity”, HPTLC, GCMS, “Heavy metals”, “Pesticides” were done using API guidelines.

Results:
Ajamoda Arka with Yavakshara was clear, colourless and aromatic with salty taste. Physicochemical parameters showed pH 6.34, specific gravity 0.9710, refractive index 1.32507 and viscosity 1.01, indicating stability of the formulation. Volatile matter was 0.13%. Microbial analysis revealed absence of bacterial and fungal growth, confirming microbiological safety within permissible limits. HPTLC analysis reported characteristic bands analogous to α-phellandrene and β-pinene. GC–MS chromatogram revealed several constituents including 9-Octadecenoic acid derivatives, ‘cis-9-Hexadecenal, terpen’ and ‘glycidyl palmitate’, indicating the presence of anti-inflammatory bioactive compounds. Heavy metals were within permissible limits and all tested pesticides were negative, confirming the safety of the formulation.

Conclusion:
The present study establishes preliminary analytical standards and chromatographic fingerprints for Ajamoda Arka with Yavakshara. The results of this pharmaceutical study can serve as criteria for ‘quality control’ and ‘standardization parameter’ for future research. However, further studies can be enriched with safety and stability evaluation for shelf life.