Physicochemical and Phytochemical analysis of Kottai Karanthai Chooranam (KKC)

Shomesh V.*1 and Soruban T.2

Abstract

Medicinal plants, used to treat a wide range of diseases and ailments, represent the richest natural sources of various phytochemicals. Sphaeranthus indicus L. commonly called “Kottai karanthai” in Tamil. Kottai karanthai chooranam (KKC) is a Traditional Siddha single-herbal formulation. The aim of the present study was to analyze physicochemical parameters and to screen the phytochemicals in KKC. It was identified as a brownish, moderately fine, non-free-flowing powder with a characteristic odor and soft consistency. Its particle size was 75.3 ± 19.95µm. KKC showed solubility in DMSO, ethanol and water. Physicochemical analysis indicated a loss on drying of 6.16 ± 0.208% at 105°C, a total ash content of 0.55 ± 0.02% and no detectable acid-insoluble ash. Water and alcohol-soluble extractable matters were 10.9 ± 0.55% and 8.9 ± 0.65%, respectively, with a pH of 6.51. Phytochemical screening of methanol extracts confirmed the presence of significant bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, cardiac glycosides, triterpenoids and total phenolics. The results contribute to its standardization and quality control of KKC and provide scientific support for its traditional use in Siddha Medicine.