Physicochemical Characterization and Bioactive Profiling of Cissus quadrangularis Salt (Pirandai uppu), a Traditional Siddha Formulation

Abstract

Cissus quadrangularis salt (Pirandai uppu) is a traditional Siddha formulation widely used for gastrointestinal, inflammatory, and bone-related disorders, yet scientific validation remains limited. This study aimed to standardize and evaluate the formulation through physicochemical characterization, phytochemical profiling, chromatographic analysis, and assessment of antibacterial and antioxidant activities. The salt was prepared using traditional incineration and aqueous extraction methods. Physicochemical parameters such as pH, solubility, and water-soluble ash content were determined, while qualitative phytochemical screening and thin-layer chromatography (TLC) were employed for bioactive profiling. Antibacterial activity was assessed against clinically relevant intestinal pathogens using the agar well diffusion method, and antioxidant potential was evaluated using the DPPH free radical scavenging assay. The formulation exhibited a strongly alkaline pH (10.3) and high water-soluble ash content (92%), indicating enhanced mineral bioavailability. Phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, saponins, and cardiac glycosides. The salt demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against multidrug-resistant Shigella dysenteriae and Proteus spp. and showed strong antioxidant activity (90.45% DPPH inhibition; IC₅₀ = 23.28 µg/mL). These findings scientifically support the traditional use of Pirandai uppu and provide baseline data for quality control and further investigations.