PHARMACOGNOSTICAL, PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND CHROMATOGRAPHIC STANDARDIZATION OF MUKHAKANTIKARA LEPA: AN AYURVEDIC POLYHERBAL FORMULATION

Introduction: Vyanga, a Kshudra Roga characterized by painless facial hyperpigmentation, is associated with Vata-Pitta vitiation and Rakta Dushti and can be correlated with melasma. Mukhakantikara Lepa is a classical polyherbal formulation known for its Varnya and Twachya properties and is indicated for the management of Vyanga. Aim and Objective: To standardize Mukhakantikara Lepa by authenticating its ingredients and establishing pharmacognostical and physicochemical quality control parameters. Material and Methods: The formulation was prepared using equal proportions of Raktachandana, Manjistha, Lodhra, Kushtha, Priyangu, Vatankura, and Masoora. Organoleptic evaluation, powder microscopy, physicochemical analysis, and TLC profiling were carried out. Results: The prepared formulation was found to be reddish-brown in colour with an aromatic odour, fine texture and astringent taste. Microscopic evaluation revealed the presence of characteristic cellular structures corresponding to all ingredients used in the formulation. Physicochemical analysis showed loss on drying (2.67 ± 0.08%), total ash (13.94 ± 0.12%), water-soluble extractive (16.61 ± 0.15%), methanol-soluble extractive (29.34 ± 0.21%) and pH (6.50 ± 0.05). Thin layer chromatographic analysis exhibited five spots at 254 nm and nine spots at 366 nm, indicating the presence of multiple phytochemical constituents. Discussion and Conclusion: The study established the characteristic pharmacognostical, physicochemical and chromatographic features of Mukhakantikara Lepa. The findings support its quality, authenticity and suitability for further pharmaceutical and clinical investigations.