GC-MS analysis of phytoconstituents from an Ayurvedic formulation Tulasiswarasadi Taila mentioned in Sahasrayogam

Abstract BACKGROUND: Tulasiswarasadi Taila (TT) is a traditional oleaginous formulation consisting of Tila ( Sesamum indicum L.) oil, a paste of Kundrushka ( Boswellia serrata Roxb.), and Tulasi ( Ocimum tenuiflorum L.) leaf juice, all boiled together as described in the Sahasrayogam . This formulation is used in Nasya (medication through the nasal route) for conditions such as Nasadaurgandhya (dysosmia) and Pratishyaya (allergic rhinitis). Tulasi , a key ingredient, imparts a distinctive and potent fragrance to the oil. To elucidate the primary phytochemical constituents of TT oil, a gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis was performed. The study aimed to identify the phytochemical composition of TT using GC-MS. METHODS: The preparation of TT adhered to the guidelines provided in the Sahasrayogam . The formulated oil was then subjected to GC-MS analysis following standard procedures by using an electron ionization system operated in the electron impact mode with an ionization energy of 70 eV. RESULTS: GC-MS analysis identified 21 compounds in TT. Notable constituents included linalool (21.08%), 1,5-pentanediol (16.2%), cycloheptanol (13.46%), and palmitoleic Acid (3.59%). CONCLUSIONS: This study identified 20 compounds for the first time in TT through GC-MS analysis, highlighting linalool, 1,5-pentanediol, cycloheptanol, and palmitoleic acid as significant components. These identified compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory, antihistaminic, and anti-bacterial properties, which may contribute to the efficacy of TT in treating Nasadaurgandhya and Pratishyaya .