Integrated Bioscreening of the Siddha Formulation Poora Mathirai: Physicochemical, Phytochemical and Biochemical Analyses Coupled with ICP-OES Heavy-Metal Assessment

Abstract

This study presents an integrated Bio screening of Poora Maathirai, a Siddha herbomineral formulation traditionally used for Uthiravatha Suronitham (Rheumatoid Arthritis), to establish its quality and safety. Physicochemical analysis revealed a moisture content of 23.79%, total ash of 7.75%, and a slightly acidic pH of 4.39. Phytochemical profiling confirmed the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, glycosides, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and tannins in both aqueous and ethanolic extracts, supporting its traditional anti-inflammatory and analgesic claims. Biochemical tests further characterized its profile, identifying calcium, sulphate, chloride, and iron. Crucially, ICP-OES elemental analysis demonstrated that toxic heavy metals like arsenic, cadmium, and lead were below detection limits, validating the efficacy of the Rasakarpooram purification process. Mercury was detected at 0.3987mg/L, requiring careful dosage consideration. This comprehensive investigation provides scientific validation for Poora Maathirai's quality, safety, therapeutic potential, advocating for its evidence-based pre-clinical and clinical trials.