PHARMACEUTICO-ANALYTICAL STUDY OF RASAKARPURA W.R.T. RASA TARANGINI AND ITS IN VITRO CYTOTOXIC ACTIVITY ON A431 SKIN CANCER CELL LINE

Skin cancer, particularly squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), remains a significant health concern worldwide. Despite advances in surgical and pharmacological interventions, recurrence and treatment-related complications continue to challenge clinicians. Ayurveda describes various skin disorders under the broad category of Kushtha Roga and recommends several herbo-mineral formulations for their management. Rasakarpura, a classical Kupipakwa Rasayana formulation described in Rasa Tarangini, has traditionally been used for skin diseases, wounds, and blood disorders. The present study aimed to prepare Rasakarpura according to the classical method, evaluate its physicochemical properties, and investigate its in vitro cytotoxic activity against the A431 human squamous cell carcinoma cell line. The formulation was prepared using purified mercury, sulphuric acid, and rock salt through the Kupipakwa process. Analytical evaluation was conducted to assess quality and composition, followed by cytotoxicity assessment using the A431 cell line. The study provides preliminary scientific evidence regarding the pharmaceutical standardization and potential anticancer activity of Rasakarpura, highlighting the need for further preclinical and clinical investigations.