Quality Standardisation of Qurs-e-Mafasil Jadeed: A Classical Polyherbal Unani Formulation for Osteoarthritis

Background and Aim: Qurs-e-Mafasil Jadeed (QMJ) is a classical Unani formulation used therapeutically in the treatment of Waj-ul-Mafasil (Osteoarthritis). The formulation has been mentioned in Qarabdeen-e-Majeedi (Pharmacopeia). The poly herbal formulation of QMJ in the form of tablets is prepared by using three Unani single drugs; Zard Chob (Curcuma longa Linn.), Suranjan Shireen (Colchicum luteum Baker) and Samgh-e-Arabi (Acacia arabica Willd). The main objective of the present research study was to develop the quality standards of Qurs-e- Mafasil Jadeed (QMJ).

Methods: The quality standard of QMJ was developed as per the guidelines of World Health Organization (WHO). The physicochemical parameters carried out for the standardization purposes include; heavy metal analysis, microbial load, aflatoxins and pesticide residue. Organoleptic characteristic and powder microscopy and high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) fingerprint was also done to lay down the standard for genuine drug.

Results: Preliminary and phytochemical profile of QMJ was established. High performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) fingerprint profiles of different extract of QMJ also developed. Powder microscopy has also shown some special characteristics. The results on heavy metals residue, pesticides residue, aflatoxins, and microbial load were found within the permissible limit.

Conclusion: The findings of the present study can be used as a standard for quality assurance of the Unani formulation. This could be useful to maintain the quality and would limit the batch to batch variation.