Identification of Bioactive Metabolites in Bhadrikadi Ghrita: A Phytochemical and GC-MS Approach to Investigating Analgesic and Anti-inflammatory Properties

Background: Ayurveda healthcare system holds considerable reputation in today’s era. Treatises of Ayurveda explained numerous formulations with their potential therapeutic benefits but their global acceptance is poor due to the lack of scientific validity. Bhadrikadi Ghrita is one such formulation indicated for Marmakshat Ruja. Thus, there is an obvious need to overcome this lacuna by subjecting these medicines to thorough tests in light of modern research about their pharmacological, pharmacokinetic, and toxicity standards. Objectives: The present study employs Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis to investigate pain-relieving Ayurvedic Ghee, Bhadrikadi Ghrita, aiming to establish correlations between its medicinal activity and the biomolecules it contains. Materials and Methods: Bhadrikadi Ghrita was prepared according to Ayurvedic standards and subjected to GC-MS analysis. The detected compounds were identified by comparing their mass spectra with standard libraries and previous literature. A functional classification of the bioactive compounds was conducted to understand their potential therapeutic implications. Results and Discussion: The resulting profile revealed the presence of diverse array of bioactive compounds, including fatty acids, terpenoids, phenolic derivatives, and sterols. Notable compounds included linoleic acid, oleic acid, squalene, and curcumene. These constituents are associated with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and neuroprotective properties. Conclusion: The identification of these bioactive compounds supports the therapeutic potentials of Bhadrikadi Ghrita as an effective pain-relieving ghee in Marmakshat Ruja, warranting further pharmacological and clinical studies.