Pharmacognostical and Physicochemical Standardization of Pun Sudar Thylam: A Traditional Siddha Medicinal Oil

Abstract

Pun Sudar Thylam (PST) is a classical Siddha formulation that has been traditionally used for the management of chronic skin and soft tissue disorders such as anorectal fistula, non-healing ulcers, lymphedema, and abscesses. The formulation consists of purified Nellikaai, Gandhagam (sublimated sulphur), Erukam paal (latex of Calotropis gigantea (L.) W.T. Aiton), and castor oil, all of which are known in traditional practice for their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. Despite its long-standing therapeutic use, PST requires scientific validation and standardization for broader acceptance in modern healthcare. The present study aimed to prepare and standardize Pun Sudar Thylam using modern analytical techniques in accordance with AYUSH–Pharmacopoeial Laboratory for Indian Medicine (PLIM) guidelines to ensure its quality, safety, and efficacy. Pun Sudar Thylam was prepared following the traditional Sudar Thylam method using authenticated and purified raw materials. The formulation was evaluated for various physicochemical parameters, including specific gravity, viscosity, acid value, peroxide value, saponification value, and refractive index. Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) and High-Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) were used for phytochemical fingerprinting, while Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) and microbial limit tests were conducted to assess heavy metal content and microbiological safety, respectively. The results confirmed the stability and consistency of the formulation, with acceptable levels of physicochemical parameters. Phytochemical profiling revealed the presence of key constituents, while heavy metals and microbial counts were within permissible limits. Overall, the study supports the quality and safety of Pun Sudar Thylam and provides scientific evidence reinforcing its traditional ethnomedical relevance.