Pharmaceutico-Analytical study of Karaviradya taila

Abstract

Introduction: Sneha kalpana (oleaginous preparations) is commonly prescribed Ayurvedic dosage form and it is the preparation of various kinds of medicated oils and ghee. Karaviradya taila is medicated oil preparation used externally in the form of abhyanga (massage) for lomashatana (depilation). Objectives: To prepare and carry out the physico-chemical analysis of karaviradya taila. Materials and Methods: Karaviradya taila was prepared by general method of taila kalpana i.e ¼:1:4 and analytical study like organoleptic characters and physico- chemical parameters were carried out based on the references available in the laboratory guide for the analysis of Ayurveda and Siddha formulation. Results and Discussion: The total oil obtained was 85% and the loss was 15%. Organoleptic characters of karaviradya taila showed translucent green viscous liquid with alkaline odor, Physico- chemical parameters like pH, specific gravity, viscosity, total suspended solids, and refractive index were tested. The increased Saponification value of karaviradya taila indicates the rate of absorption, low acid value of karaviradya taila indicates less chance of decomposition of taila.  Evaporation of moisture contents in karaviradya taila leads to the decrease in rancidity factors. Peroxide value and iodine value of karaviradya taila indicates the primary oxidation. Conclusion: Karaviradya taila is a sneha kalpana mainly indicated for loma shatana (depilation). Local applications is beneficial because they are quickly absorbable, protect the skin and promotes percutaneous absorption of incorporated drug. The results of pharmaceutical and analytical study of karaviradya taila can be considered as the preliminary standards for the preparation of karaviradya taila.

Keywords:  Lomashatana, Karaviradyataila, Bahirparimarjana chikitsa, Sneha kalpana, Depilation, Hair Removal.