Comprehensive analysis of the siddha drug “chandraprakasa mathirai” (cpmathirai)

Chandraprakasa mathirai (CP mathirai) is a Siddha herbomineral medicinal preparation indicated for polyarthritis and fever.The key component of the preparation is Aconitum ferox.The aim of the study was to standardize the drug and record the physicochemical and phytochemicalconstituents, check for the presence of heavy metals and microbial contamination. The Physicochemical, phytochemical analysis and microbial analysis were conducted as per the AYUSH protocol.The physicochemical findings indicated a basic pH, good water solubility, and a desirable acid insoluble ash value. The disintegration time of the tablets was too long and warrants further study. The preliminary phytochemical analysis showed the presence of carboxylic acid, flavonoids and phenolic compounds. HPTLC analysis showed 13 spots in 254 nm, 5 spots in 366 nm and 12 spots in Vanillin sulphuric acid reagent read at densitometric chromatogram at 545 nm. The heavy metals analysis done using atomicabsorption spectrophotometer was within permissible limits and there was no microbial contamination. This study elucidates the basis of the therapeutic potential by phytochemical analysis and gives a cue for further study in developing the quality of the drug in pharmaceutical field.