Eco-friendly HPTLC method for simultaneous estimation of gallic acid, ellagic acid, and curcumin biomarker in herbal formulation
Megha Shah, Harsha Patel, Ashok H Akabari
Abstract
Herbal formulations present a promising avenue in healthcare, yet their analysis poses significant challenges due to complex compositions and environmental concerns associated with analytical methods. This study introduces a novel approach to simultaneous estimation of Gallic Acid, Ellagic Acid, and Curcumin in herbal formulations using an eco-friendly High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) method. The methodological innovation lies in the utilization of HPTLC, a green chromatographic technique known for its efficiency and minimal environmental impact. The mobile phase was a combination of toluene, ethyl acetate, and formic acid in a 4:4.5:1.5 (v/v/v) ratio, while the stationary phase used aluminum sheets pre-coated with silica gel G60 F254. The Rf values for Ellagic Acid, Gallic Acid, and Curcumin were observed at 0.51 ± 0.02, 0.59 ± 0.02, and 0.73 ± 0.02, respectively. The simultaneous estimation of GA, EA, and CUR offers a comprehensive insight into the herbal formulation’s composition and potency, enhancing quality control measures in herbal product manufacturing. The eco-friendly HPTLC method demonstrated high selectivity, sensitivity, and accuracy in quantifying Gallic Acid, Ellagic Acid, and Curcumin in herbal formulations. Notably, the method’s green credentials, including reduced solvent usage and waste generation, align with sustainable practices in analytical chemistry. This research underscores the significance of eco-friendly approaches in chromatographic analysis, particularly in the context of herbal formulations, where sustainability and analytical robustness are paramount. The proposed HPTLC method represents a valuable contribution to the field, offering a novel solution to the simultaneous estimation of key phytoconstituents in herbal formulations while promoting environmental stewardship.