Comprehensive Characterization of the Siddha Herbo-mineral Formulation Vaalai Rasa Mezhugu using X-ray Diffraction and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy Techniques

Background: “Vaalai Rasa Mezhugu” is a herbo-mineral formulation widely used in Siddha medicine prepared according to the process found in Siddha marunthu sei perumuraigal. Traditionally the chosen formulation has been prescribed for the management of Soolai (Throbbing pain), Mudakku vaatham (Arthritis), Kandamaalai (Cervical lymphadenitis), Pauttiram (Fistula), Araiyappu (Lymphnode related neoplasia). Objective: The aim of the research work was to characterize the chemical composition of the drug using XRD and FTIR. Method: The formulation was prepared as per the literature and then subjected to quantitative analysis with XRD and FTIR. Findings: The XRD analysis showed the presence of sylvine and zinc sulfide and the FTIR analysis showed the presence of hydroxyl, carboxylic acids, amines, aromatic compounds, hydrocarbons, and carbonyl groups. Novelty: This study provides a novel chemical characterization of the Siddha formulation "Vaalai Rasa Mezhugu" using XRD and FTIR, revealing its potential antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It bridges traditional knowledge with modern scientific validation, encouraging further pharmacological research. Keywords: Vaalai Rasa Mezhugu, XRD, FTIR, Siddha medicine, Internal medicine