ANALYTICAL EVALUATION AND STANDARDIZATION OF SHANKHANJANA

Dr. Manoj M. C. I.*, Dr. Sharanprasad Kolliyavar

ABSTRACT

Shankhanjana is a classical Ayurvedic ophthalmic formulation traditionally used in the management of various Netra rogas. The formulation belongs to the Anjana category of ocular drug delivery and is primarily indicated for conditions involving Kapha-dominant pathologies of the eye, owing to its Katu rasa, Sheeta virya, and Kapha-Vata shamaka properties. In the present era, standardization and analytical evaluation of classical formulations are essential to ensure quality, safety, reproducibility, and scientific validation. Hence, the present study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical parameters and HPTLC fingerprint profile of Shankanjana. The formulation was assessed for organoleptic characters, physicochemical properties including alcohol and water soluble extractives and pH, and HPTLC profiling using alcoholic extract with Toluene: Ethyl acetate (9:1) as solvent system. The sample was white in color with pungent odor and tingling and burning sensation on tongue. The pH was found to be 7.5, indicating a near-neutral to mildly alkaline nature suitable for ocular application. Densitometric scanning at 254 nm and 366 nm revealed multiple peaks with distinct Rf values, confirming the presence of diverse phytochemical constituents. The study highlights the importance of physicochemical standardization in establishing quality control parameters for Shankanjana and provides a baseline chromatographic fingerprint for future authentication and quality assurance of this classical ophthalmic preparation.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Shankhanjana, Anjana, Netra roga, HPTLC.