HPTLC Profile of <i>Siddha</i> Polyherbal Formulation <i>Thontha Sura Kiyaazham</i> (TSK) and <i>Thontha Sura Kiyaazham Chooranam</i> (TSKC)

Background: Standardizing process is a comprehensive evaluation of physico-chemical and pharmacological profiles of a drug which enables the establishment of benchmark parameters that provide confidence in safety and efficacy of traditional Siddha medicines. Siddha system is one of the medical sciences of India. Aim: The objective of the study was to do systematic standardisation of Thontha Sura kiyaazham Chooranam (TSKC - Coarse powder for decoction) and Thontha Sura kiyaazham (TSK - Decoction) to create documentary evidence. Methods: The phytochemical analysis, physicochemical analysis and HPTLC finger print analytical techniques based on the PLIM guidelines had been evaluated. Results: The study results portrayed a wide range of Phytochemicals both in TSKC and TSK, including phenols, tannins, flavonoids, and triterpenoids, which were known for their therapeutic properties. In physicochemical analysis TSKC and TSK showed pH of 2.95 (strong acidic) and 5.98 (weak acidic) respectively. HPTLC chromatogram was observed at UV 254 nm, 366 nm and 520 nm before and after derivatization and their respective Rf values were analyzed. Conclusion: It is the need of the hour to standardize the traditional herbal formulation. So, this study was conducted to create scientific based profiles for research drug. It highlighted the physicochemical and phytochemical differences between TSKC and TSK. These variations were likely to influence therapeutic efficacy and bioavailability. Standardizing polyherbal formulations with advanced analytical methods ensures consistent quality, safety and efficacy to promote their integration in healthcare systems and will make pavement for the global acceptance of Siddha system of medicine. Major Findings: In physicochemical analysis, TSK (decoction form) revealed week acidic pH and TSKC (Coarse powderfor decoction) revealed strong acidic pH. The absorption of weakly acidic drugs in the stomach is generally more favourable than that of strong acidic drugs. Hence the liquid form of TSK facilitates easy absorption in gastro intestinal tract.