Quality assessment of Yashtimadhukadi taila: Ayurveda remedy for Khalitya (hair fall)

Abstract

Introduction: Hair fall is a physiological phenomenon, generally, after the mid-forties, but it is considered as a disease if it occurs before this period. Ayurveda texts describe hair fall under Shirogata rogas (diseases of head) under the broad heading of Khalitya. Yashtimadhukadi taila has been described in Chakradatta to be used in Khalitya (hair fall) and Palitya (graying of hair) as a nasal administration medicine. In the present study, attempt has been made to assess the quality of Yashtimadhukadi taila and to establish the quality control standards for the same. Materials and Methods: Organoleptic properties (color, smell, appearance, and taste) and physicochemical parameters (specific gravity, saponification value, unsaponifiable matter, refractive index, relative density, viscosity, mineral oil, free fatty acids, rancidity, acid value, and iodine value) were determined to assess the quality of this oil using standard protocols. Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) fingerprint was developed for oil using toluene:ethyl acetate:hexane:chloroform in a ratio of 4:2:1:3. Results: Yashtimadhukadi taila appeared to be brownish black viscous oil with characteristic sesame oil odor and bitter taste. In addition, saponification value (mg/g) was 456.65, unsaponifiable matter (%) was 24.32%, viscosity (cPA) was 27.98, acid value (%) was 11.6127, and iodine value (I2 100/g) was 102.34, respectively. TLC fingerprint profile consists of 4 prominent spots under UV light. Conclusion: The present study reveals the quality of Yashtimadhukadi taila for the first time.