EVALUATION OF PHYSICOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AND PHYTOCONSTITUENTS OF SIDDHA FORMULATION KUNMAATHY KUDINEER FOR ANTI-ULCER POTENTIAL

Traditional Siddha therapeutics continue to hold significant value in the management of gastrointestinal ailments. Kunmaathy Kudineer is a classical herbal decoction extensively prescribed for “Kunmam,” a condition clinically correlated with peptic ulcer disease, characterized by symptoms such as epigastric pain, dyspepsia, and gastric irritation. The present investigation was undertaken to establish the standardization profile of Kunmaathy Kudineer through systematic evaluation of its physicochemical parameters, phytochemical constituents, and safety aspects in accordance with the guidelines of the Pharmacopoeial Laboratory for Indian Medicine (PLIM).The formulation was prepared using authenticated raw drugs and subjected to comprehensive analytical studies, including organoleptic assessment, physicochemical evaluation (moisture content, ash values, extractive values, and pH), and particle size determination. Safety analysis involved the detection of heavy metals using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS), microbial load, specific pathogens, pesticide residues, and aflatoxins. Preliminary phytochemical screening was carried out to identify the presence of bioactive compounds. The analytical findings revealed that the formulation complies with acceptable quality standards, with loss on drying (11.27%), total ash (1.13%), and pH (6.1), indicating stability and suitability for therapeutic use. Phytochemical evaluation indicated the presence of alkaloids, phenols, tannins, saponins, steroids, and triterpenoids, which are known for their anti-ulcer, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Safety studies demonstrated the absence of microbial contamination, pathogens, pesticide residues, and aflatoxins, while heavy metals were within permissible limits. This study provides scientific evidence supporting the quality, safety, and purity of Kunmaathy Kudineer, thereby validating its traditional application in peptic ulcer management. However, further pharmacological and clinical investigations are required to confirm its therapeutic efficacy.