MOLECULAR FINGERPRINTING OF SIDDHA DRUG PARANGIPATTAI CHOORANAM FOR OSTEOARTHRITIS OF KNEE USING FTIR AND GC-MS SPECTRAL ANALYSIS

Osteoarthritis of the knee is a prevalent degenerative joint disorder that significantly impairs mobility and quality of life, particularly among aging populations. In this context, Siddha medicine an ancient Indian traditional system offers a promising alternative or complementary approach, emphasizing holistic healing, affordability, and minimal side effects. Rooted in principles such as Pancha Bootham and Mukkutram, Siddha philosophy attributes osteoarthritis primarily to Vali humor imbalance, leading to joint degeneration, followed by Azhal and Iyyam disturbances causing inflammation and restricted movement. Parangipattai (Smilax china), a key herb in Siddha formulations, is traditionally used for musculoskeletal, dermatological, and systemic ailments. In the present study, Parangipattai Chooranam (PPC) was subjected to phytochemical characterization using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). FTIR analysis revealed functional groups associated with polyphenols, flavonoids, and terpenoids—compounds known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and chondroprotective activities. GC-MS identified several fatty acid methyl esters with immunomodulatory and regenerative properties relevant to osteoarthritis therapy. These findings support the ethnopharmacological use of PPC in managing Vatha-related conditions such as knee osteoarthritis. The integration of traditional Siddha knowledge with modern analytical techniques not only reinforces the therapeutic rationale of PPC but also emphasizes the need for further in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies to ensure its efficacy and safety. This approach bridges traditional wisdom with contemporary science for holistic and evidence-based healthcare.