Comparative physicochemical analysis of Jalakumbhikshara prepared with water and cow urine

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Kshara preparation is one of the prominent and widely practiced dosage forms of Ayurveda specifically indicated for the management of Kaphaja Galaganda (goiter). Varied descriptions regarding method of preparation and type of Kshara are mentioned in classics. Sushruta Samhita mentions the use of either water or cow urine as the solvent. No pharmaceutico-analytical study has been documented on Jalakumbhikshara till date. The aim of this study was to prepare Jalakumbhikshara with water (JKW) and cow’s urine (JKC) and to evaluate their analytical profile by physicochemical analysis, chromatographic pattern, and spectral method (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy). MATERIALS AND METHODS: JKW and JKC were prepared by addition of six times of media (water or cow urine) to the ash of dried whole plant of Jalakumbhi followed by decantation and heating to dryness, which in turn is followed by analysis through physicochemical, sensory, spectral, and chromatographic methods. RESULTS: JKW and JKC were differentiable on the basis of color, taste, and smell. Physicochemical analysis of JKW and JKC reveals significant difference in ash value and water-soluble ash, whereas it shows insignificant difference in water-soluble extractives and acid-insoluble ash, respectively. Jalakumbhi Kshara prepared by water and cow urine predominantly contains 44.31%, 21.3% and 43.3%, 19.41% of potassium and chloride, respectively, with trace elements such as Na, Br, I, Cu, Mg, Ph, and Fe. Both the types of Kshara contain organic moieties, with comparatively 15.21% more organic content in Jalakumbhi Kshara prepared with cow’s urine. CONCLUSION: Change of extraction media for preparation of Jalakumbhi Kshara from water to cow urine alters organoleptic and physicochemical attributes of Kshara. Jalakumbhi Kshara prepared with water and cow’s urine has predominance of K and Cl ions. Cow’s urine is a better medium for extraction of inorganic alkaline earth elements in the preparation of Jalakumbhi Kshara than that of water.