Abstract

ATR-FTIR SPECTROSCOPIC EVALUATION OF ADULTERATION IN MARKETED AYURVEDIC HERBAL POWDERS

Dr. Mubeen G.*, Nishmitha KM, Md. Tasneem Akhter, Faruk Hossain Mondal, Ameena Kousar, Afiya Sultana

Abstract

This study describes a rapid FTIR–based analytical method for detecting undeclared adulterants in marketed Ayurvedic Pure powders, addressing increasing concerns related to quality, safety, and authenticity in Ayurvedic formulations. Five commonly used herbs-Ashwagandha, Shatavari, Triphala, Neem and Tulsi were evaluated using Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy to detect the amount of Undeclared Adulterants. FTIR spectra were recorded in the mid-IR range of 4000–400 cm⁻¹ using a Nicolet Summit X spectrometer, and processed through baseline correction, normalization, and fingerprint-region assessment. Five Authentic herbal standards (Ashwagandha, Shatavari, Triphala, Neem, Tulsi) and three frequent adulterants (calcium carbonate, starch, talc) were used to establish comparison profiles. Ashwagandha, Shatavari, and Triphala showed strong spectral correlation with authenticated standards, confirming purity and absence of adulterants. Tulsi and Neem samples exhibited significant deviations, including unexpected carbonyl peaks (1700–1735 cm⁻¹) and altered fingerprint patterns. Although these differences did not match adulterant-specific markers, they suggest chemotypic variations, use of different plant parts, or processing-related changes. Overall, ATR-FTIR proved to be a fast, non-destructive, and cost-effective preliminary screening tool for herbal quality evaluation. The method effectively highlights chemical inconsistencies and supports strengthened quality assurance for Ayurvedic powders.

Keywords: ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, Ayurvedic powders, Adulteration, Quality control, Authentication.