Abstract

COMPREHENSIVE ANALYTICAL PROFILING AND STANDARDIZATION OF BILWADI AGAD USING PHYSICOCHEMICAL, MICROBIAL, AFLATOXIN, AND HPTLC METHODS

Dr. Qazi Sana Khalid, Dr. Bhawana Mittal*, Dr. Ramesh Chandra Tiwari

Abstract

Bilwadi Agad is a classical polyherbal formulation described in classical samhitas for the management of various toxic and systemic conditions. Considering its wide therapeutic utility, scientific standardization is essential to ensure identity, purity, safety, and quality consistency. The present study aimed to develop a systematic analytical profile of Bilwadi Agad using modern evaluation techniques. Materials and Methods: Organoleptic characteristics were assessed through sensory parameters such as appearance, colour, taste, and odour. Physicochemical evaluation included determination of moisture content, ash values, extractive values, and pH following standard procedures. Powder microscopy was performed to observe characteristic diagnostic features. Safety evaluation comprised aflatoxin estimation and assessment of total microbial load. Chromatographic characterization was carried out using High-Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) to establish a distinctive fingerprint pattern. Results: Organoleptic evaluation confirmed acceptable sensory characteristics. Microscopic examination revealed diagnostic features indicating authenticity of ingredients. Physicochemical parameters were found within permissible limits. Microbial load and aflatoxin levels complied with safety standards. HPTLC profiling exhibited distinct peaks and Rf values, indicating the presence of multiple phytoconstituents and a characteristic fingerprint profile. Conclusion: The analytical findings affirm the quality, safety, and consistency of Bilwadi Agad. The generated data may serve as reference standards for routine quality control and further standardization of the formulation.

Keywords: Bilwadi Agad, Analytical Profiling, Standardization, Physicochemical Analysis, HPTLC, Aflatoxin, Microbial Safety.