Abstract

STANDARDIZATION AND SAFETY EVALUATION OF LINGA CHENDURAM THROUGH PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND HEAVY METAL ANALYSIS AS PER SIDDHA PHARMACOPOEIAL GUIDELINES

Kamalinie R.*, Shyamala K., Maharasi Maniselvi T., Sriram J.

Abstract

Background: Linga Chenduram is a classical Siddha herbomineral formulation widely used for chronic and degenerative diseases. Despite its therapeutic importance, concerns regarding heavy metal toxicity necessitate scientific validation through standardization and safety profiling. Aim: To standardize Linga Chenduram physicochemical parameters and evaluate its safety through heavy metal analysis. Materials and methods: The prepared sample of Linga Chenduram was subjected to physicochemical evaluation including organoleptic characters, loss on drying, total ash, acid-insoluble ash, water-soluble extractive, and pH. Heavy metal analysis for Lead (Pb), Arsenic (As), Cadmium (Cd), and Mercury (Hg) was performed using standard analytical techniques such as Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS)/ICP-MS as per Siddha Pharmacopoeia and WHO guidelines. Results: The formulation showed characteristic reddish fine powder with acceptable physicochemical limits. Heavy metal levels were found within permissible limits, confirming safety. The results indicate consistency in preparation and absence of toxic accumulation beyond regulatory standards. Conclusion: The study establishes Linga Chenduram as a standardized and safe Siddha formulation when prepared according to classical methods. These findings support its therapeutic use and provide scientific validation for quality control.

Keywords: Linga Chenduram, Siddha medicine, Standardization, Heavy metal analysis, Physicochemical evaluation.