Pharmaceutico analytical study of Roudra Rasa and evaluation of its Anti carcinogenic study in selected cell lines and Acute toxicity studies in albino wistar rats

Abstract

ABSTRACT newlineIntroduction newlineCancer is a leading cause of global mortality, with rising incidences of breast, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancers. Conventional therapies often involve severe side effects, drug resistance, and limited efficacy in advanced stages, prompting interest in complementary systems like Ayurveda. Rasa Shastra specializes in herbo-mineral formulations rendered safe through purification (Shodhana), incineration (Marana), and levigation (Bhavana). Roudra Rasa, a Kajjali-based preparation with Bhavana from Nagavalli (Piper betle), Meghanaad (Amaranthus spinosus), Punarnava (Boerhaavia diffusa), Pippali (Piper longum), and Gomutra, is traditionally indicated for Arbuda (tumours) in texts like Bhaishajya Ratnavali. Scientific validation of its standardization, anti-carcinogenic potential, and safety is lacking. This study aimed to prepare and characterize Roudra Rasa classically, evaluate its cytotoxicity in selected cancer cell lines, and assess acute oral toxicity in rats. newlineAim newlineTo perform pharmaceutico-analytical standardization of Roudra Rasa and evaluate its anti-carcinogenic activity in vitro and acute toxicity profile in vivo. newlineMethods newlineThree batches of Roudra Rasa were prepared using purified Parada (mercury) and Gandhaka (sulphur) with sequential herbal Bhavana. Characterization involved organoleptic, physicochemical tests, XRD, FTIR, SEM-EDX, ICP-OES, and AAS. Anti-carcinogenic activity was assessed by Sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay on MCF-7 (breast), HT-29 (colon), HOP-62 and A549 (lung), DU145 and PC-3 (prostate) cell lines (10 80 and#956;g/ml). Acute oral toxicity was evaluated in Albino Wistar rats per OECD 423 guidelines. newlineResults newlineRoudra Rasa showed low moisture (1.73% LOD), ash (4.90%), and alcohol extractive (7.6%) values. XRD confirmed HgS crystalline structure; FTIR revealed amines and ketones; SEM-EDX/ICP-OES/AAS indicated mercury (36.88%) and sulphur (19.82%), with undetectable As, Pb, or Cd. Moderate growth inhibition occurred in MCF-7 (42% control growth at 80 and#956;g/ml) and PC-3 (63%) cells;