Preliminary analysis of Shatapaka Atibala (Abutilon indicum L.) Taila: An Ayurveda lipid-based dosage form

BACKGROUND: The peculiarity of Sneha Avartana as a Snehapaka process lies in the intentional and careful reheating of fixed oil during its preparation. Shatapaka Atibala ( Abutilon indicum L.) Taila (ABT 100), which is an Ayurvedic medicated oil processed through 100 repetitive heating cycles using sesame oil, Atibalamoola (root of A. indicum (L.) sweet) paste and decoction, and cow’s milk. It is indicated for Vatarakta disorders, rejuvenation, vitality, and other benefits. Despite its significance, there is a dearth of published pharmaceutical and analytical data concerning this formulation. Therefore, our current work is an attempt to establish preliminary profiles through adherence to standard methodologies. METHODS: ABT 100 was prepared as per the reference of Charaka Samhita by using classical Sneha Paka guidelines. Samples were collected at 1, 10, 50, and 100 Avartana cycles and assessed for their organoleptic, physicochemical (pH, acid value, and iodine value), and high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) analyses. RESULTS: It showed a significant volume increase (approximately two times, from 3000 to 5920 mL), a pH decrease (from 6.43 to 4.58), a rise in acid value (from 0.72 to 5.74), and a fluctuated iodine values indicating altered fatty acid profiles, the oil’s consistency changed from liquid to semisolid, resembling ghee and HPTLC revealed increased flavonoids and phenolics, shifting to less polar compounds. CONCLUSION: The Avartana process enriches oil with bioactive compounds through controlled heating and cooling, minimizing fatty acid isomerism and enhancing bioavailability corresponding to modern emulsions. Avartana ’s role in enhancing the oil’s medicinal properties, supported by analytical fingerprints, highlights the need for further research to standardize protocols and explore molecular mechanisms, bridging Ayurvedic and modern therapeutic frameworks.