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GC-MS Phytochemical Profiling of Shatapaka Guduchi Taila with Therapeutic Insights into Vataraktam (ED-8 Rheumatoid Arthritis)

1★, 2★, 3, 2, 1, 4, 5, 6★ Corresponding author

  1. 1Department of Ayurveda Pharmacology, KAHER�s Shri BMK Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Belagavi, Karnataka, INDIA.
  2. 2Department of Rejuvenative and Reproductive Medicine in Ayurveda, KAHER�s Shri BMK Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Belagavi, Karnataka, INDIA.
  3. 3Department of Ayurveda Psychology and Psychiatry, KAHER’s Shri BMK Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Belagavi, Karnataka, INDIA.
  4. 4Department of Ayurveda Surgery, Muniyal Institute of Ayurveda Medical Sciences, Manipal, Udupi, Karnataka, INDIA.
  5. 5Department of Undergraduate Studies, KAHER’s Shri BMK Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Belagavi, Karnataka, INDIA.
  6. 6Department of Ayurveda Internal Medicine, KAHER’s Shri BMK Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Belagavi, Karnataka, INDIA.

CORRESPONDENCE

Pradnya Prakash Hemke

Department of Ayurveda Pharmacology, KAHER's Shri BMK Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Belagavi, Karnataka, INDIA.

ps214088@gmail.com

Received: 03-04-2026; Revised: 19-05-2026; Accepted: 14-07-2026.

Volume 18, Issue 4 · pp. 1386-1394 · 2026 · DOI: 10.5530/pres.20260010

ABSTRACT

Background: Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), classified as Vataraktam in Ayurveda (WHO ITA-5.30/NAMC ED-8), affects millions globally with chronic inflammation and joint damage. Shatapaka Guduchi Taila (SGT), a 100-cycle processed formulation of Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia [Willd.] Miers), Tila Taila (Sesamum indicum L.) and Goksheera (cow milk), derived from classical Ayurveda texts Chakradutta, lacks systematic phytochemical documentation despite its proven role in Vataraktam management.Aim and Objectives: This study uses Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis to examine the Shatapaka Guduchi Taila, intending to identify links between its medicinal properties and the biomolecules it comprises.Materials and Methods: SGT was prepared as per Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Standards at GMP-certified IMPCOPS Ltd., Chennai. GC-MS analysis used Shimadzu QP2020 (hexane extract, 1 µL injection, helium carrier 1.0 mL/min, oven: 70-280°C). The compounds were identified after comparing the spectral configurations obtained with those of the available mass spectral database via the NIST 2020 library (SI ≥90%).Results: Twelve compounds were detected, amongst which Cholesterol (49.06%, RT 34.292 min), 2,6-Bis(3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl)-3,7-dioxabicyclo (3.3.0) octane (32.69%), Beta-Sitosterol acetate (1.95%), Monolaurin (5.25%) dominated the chromatogram. The therapeutic profile showed antioxidant (6 compounds), anti-inflammatory (7), anti-cancer (4 compounds) and antimicrobial activities (4 compounds).Conclusion: Shatapaka Guduchi Taila's phytosterol-lipid synergy supports Vataraktam modulation via ROS scavenging, cytokine suppression, aligning Ayurvedic sneha principles with Rheumatoid Arthritis therapeutics, warranting clinical validation.

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INTRODUCTION

Arthritic pain is currently one of the major burning issues in our society, with a total of 18 million people worldwide suffering from Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) in 2019. This would translate into a total of almost seven million patients in India if projected to the entire population (Malaviya et al., 1993). The prevalence of RA in adults has been reported to vary from 0.5 to 3.8% in women and from 0.15 to 1.37% in men, with peak incidence in the fourth decade of life (Lawrence, 1977). It can affect any synovial joint in the body, most commonly starting in the small joints of the hands and feet, with the potential to impact every aspect of daily living. High levels of inflammation are associated with fatigue and impairment of participation in occupational, recreational, and societal roles (GBD, 2021 Rheumatoid Arthritis Collaborators, 2023). The pathogenesis and clinical characteristics of RA do not match any specific Ayurvedic disease. However, Vataraktam, rheumatism due to Vata and Rakta (NAMC Code ED-8), covers various musculoskeletal and rheumatological disorders, along with conditions affecting the skin and vasculature. Vataraktam (polyarthritis caused by Vata and Rakta) is classified by the WHO Standard Terminologies (ITA-5.30) as a disorder that aligns with RA based on its symptoms. (Acharya, 2006) Guduchi Taila is one of the formulations mentioned in various Ayurveda texts, such as Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, Chakradutta and Vangasena in the management of Vataraktam (Sharma et al., 2025). This Guduchi Taila is processed for one hundred cycles through a process called Aavartana, to enhance its bioavailability, reduce the required dosage, and provide Rasayana (rejuvenative and therapeutic) effects, to finally get the formulation Shatapaka Guduchi Taila (100 Times Processed Guduchi Taila) (hereafter SGT).

Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) is a technique ideal for metabolomic profiling of vaporised single or a blend of various plant samples (Kanthal et al., 2014). A wide range of phytochemical compounds can be sought with a single run of the sample based on its nature. The obtained metabolites are identified through mass spectrometry based on their mass-to-charge ratio (Venkataramanam et al., 2023). Despite the prominent mention of Shatapaka Guduchi Taila across Ayurvedic classical treatises and its recognised therapeutic importance, a systematic GC–MS-based phytochemical profiling of the formulation has not yet been documented. This study aims to quantitatively analyse the phytochemical compounds present in SGT through the GC-MS analysis. Despite its traditional relevance in the management of Vataraktam, the broader therapeutic scope of SGT and its mechanism of action in classically enlisted disease have not been comprehensively investigated. The current study represents a preliminary attempt to expand this understanding.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Study Conduction

The Shatapaka Guduchi Taila was prepared at The Indian Medical Practitioner’s Co-operative Pharmacy Stores Ltd. (IMPCOPS) Chennai-41, a GMP-certified Ayurveda Pharmacy, as per Ayurveda Pharmacopeia standards. Table 1 shows the ingredients with proportions used for the preparation of SGT. The authentication of drugs and physicochemical analysis of SGT were done at IMPCOPS Ltd., Chennai. The prepared sample was analysed for organoleptic parameters, including colour, odour, taste, and consistency, as well as physico-chemical analysis detailed in Table 2. The GC-MS analysis was done at the Centre for Analytical Instrumentation-Kerala (CAI-K), Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) at Peechi, Thrissur District, Kerala.

Instrument

GC-MS analysis of SGT was carried out using a Shimadzu GCMS-QP2020 system, which is extensively employed for accurate qualitative and quantitative analysis due to its high sensitivity and analytical reliability.

Sample Preparation

Hexane Extraction-1 µL of hexane was used to extract 1 g of the taila sample. A clear solution was obtained after the removal of solid residue by filtering the extract.

Procedure

A 1 µL aliquot of the SGT sample was dissolved appropriately in HPLC-grade hexane, and 1 µL of this solution was injected into the system in split mode (split ratio 20:1). Helium was employed as the carrier gas at a constant flow rate of 1.0 mL/min. The injector temperature was maintained at 280°C. The oven temperature program was set as follows: initial temperature 70°C, ramped at 8°C/min to 260°C with a 2-min hold, followed by a second ramp of 4°C/min to 280°C with a final hold of 5 min. The ion source temperature was maintained at 220°C, and the interface temperature at 280°C. A solvent cut time of 3.10 min was applied. Mass spectra were recorded in scan mode over an m/z range of 50–500 with a scan speed of 1666 scans/s. Identification of analytes was carried out by comparing mass spectral fragmentation patterns with those in the NIST 2020 library, and compounds were accepted based on high Similarity Index (SI) scores and consistency of characteristic ions.

Ethical Statement

Ethical approval was not required for this study as it involved only the phytochemical analysis of a herbal formulation and did not involve human or animal subjects.

Statistical Analysis

There is no specific subsection for statistical analysis. The study relies on quantitative analysis (area percentage) and Similarity Indices (SI ≥90%) rather than hypothesis testing statistics.

Table 1: Ingredients of Shatapaka Guduchi Taila.
Sl. No.IngredientDrugLatin NamePart UsedProportion
1.Kalka Dravya (Paste Drug)GuduchiTinospora cordifolia [Willd.] MiersStem¼ Parts
2.Sneha Dravya (Oil base)Tila TailaSesamum indicumOil1 Part
3.Drava Dravya (Kashaya-Decoction)Guduchi KashayaTinospora cordifolia [Willd.] MiersStem4 Part
4.Avapa Drava Dravya (Added Drug)GoksheeraCow milkMilk1 part
Table 2: Organoleptic and Physico-Chemical Parameters of SGT Documented.
ParametersCharacters
DescriptionPale yellow white colour, oily, unctuous, viscous liquid; ghee-like odour; taste- bitter taste
Colour under UV RaysWhitish blue
Colour with solvent under UV (Petroleum ether)Whitish blue
Loss on drying at 105°C0.2693%
Refractive index1.4609 @ 24.9°C
Specific gravity0.9152
Acid value1.4655 mg/KOH

RESULTS

The Total Ion Chromatograph (Figure 1) shows 12 major peaks between 6.03 and 35.24 min. The most abundant compound is Cholesterol (49.06% area) at RT 34.292 min. Second major compound: 2,6-Bis(3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl)-3,7-dioxabicyclo (3.3.0) octane (32.69%) at RT 35.246 min. The name of the compounds detected, their retention time, area, height, area/height ratio and structure has been detailed in Table 3.

Table 3: Details of Compounds detected in GCMS analysis with their Retention Time and their Activity.
Sl. No.Name of the compoundRetention timeAreaArea%HeightHeight%A/HStructureChemical FormulaCompound ClassActivity of Compound
1.Maltol6.0341047671.29335432.793.12C₆H₆O₃Phenol DerivativeAntioxidant (Song et al., 2015), Anticancer, (Han et al., 2023), Anti-Inflammatory (Li et al., 2024), Hepatoprotective (Liu et al., 2018), Cardioprotective (Xing et al., 2022).
2.2-Decenal, (E)8.523502820.62191581.592.62C₁₀H₁₈OUnsaturated AldehydeAntileishmanial (Donega et al., 2014), Anticancer (Vijayakumar et al., 2025).
3.2H-Pyran-2-one, tetrahydro-6-nonyl-18.301241090.30130621.091.85C₁₄H₂₆O₂TetrahydropyranoneAntibacterial, Antiviral, and Anti-Inflammatory (Nazari et al., 2019), Anti-Alzheimer's (Almalki et al., 2023).
4.2H-Pyran-2-one, tetrahydro-6-tridecyl20.866419570.52162681.352.58C₁₈H₃₄O₂TetrahydropyranoneAnticancer And Antioxidant (Mashrai et al., 2013).
5.9-Octadecenoic acid (Z)-, oxiranylmethyl ester24.511699190.86290882.422.40C₂₁H₃₈O₃Fatty Acid EsterAntioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, Antimicrobial & Cytotoxic (Sharaf et al., 2021).
6.Squalene29.1491249161.54407223.393.07C₃₀H₅₀Triterpene HydrocarbonHypocholesterolemic (Hien et al., 2017), Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Cancer (Abuobeid et al., 2022).
7.(R)-6-Methoxy-2,8-dimethyl-2-((4R,8R)-4,8,12-trimethyltridecyl) chroman32.9221036521.28274592.293.77C₂₉H₅₀O₂Tocopherol/ Chroman DerivativeAnti-Cancerous (Das et al., 2016; Saavedra et al., 2020; Birringer et al., 2003), Antiepileptic (Rawat et al., 2016), Antioxidant, (Lakkadi et al., 2024), Anti-Inflammatory (Jiang et al., 2014; Reiter et al., 2007).
8.Beta-Sitosterol acetate33.7041581591.95324222.704.88C₃₁H₅₂O₂SitosterolAnti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant (Hidayathulla et al., 2018), Anti-Gastro-ulcer (Xiao et al., 1992), Analgesic (Villasenor et al., 2002).
9.Cholesterol34.292398235349.0655868546.517.13C₂₇H₄₆OCholestanoidsImmune Regulation, Inflammatory (Hien et al., 2017).
10.Laurin, 2-capri-1,3-di-34.2924258635.25746626.225.70C₃₇H₇₀O₉Glycerol EsterAntimicrobial, (Matsue et al., 2019), Antioxidant (Ameena et al., 2024).
11.3-(Octanoyloxy) propane-1,2-diyl bis(decanoate)35.0653769754.64898627.484.20C₃₁H₅₈O₉TriglycerolsAnti-Inflammatory, Anti-Oxidant (Ratheesh et al., 2022).
12.2,6-Bis (3,4- methylenedioxyphenyl)-3,7-dioxabicyclo (3.3.0) octane35.246265355032.6926619822.169.97C₂₀H₁₈O₆Phenylpropanoid DimersAntioxidant (Nakai et al., 2003).
Figure 1: The Chromatogram of GC-MS Analysis of SGT.

DISCUSSION

Shatapaka Guduchi Taila is prepared based on the Chakradutta Vataraktam Chikitsa reference, utilising Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia [Willd.] Miers), Tila Taila (Sesamum indicum L.), and Goksheera (Cow Milk). Guduchi Taila is an oleaginous compound formulation that comprises Guduchi (Kalka Dravya), Tila Taila (Sneha Dravya), and Goksheera (Drava Dravya). It is prepared as per the principles of Sneha Kalpana as outlined in the Sharangdhara Samhita. In Ayurveda, there exists a methodology known as Aavartana, which involves the repeated processing of substances. The Guduchi Taila is processed for one hundred cycles (Aavartana) to enhance its bioavailability, reduce the required dosage, and provide Rasayana (rejuvenative and therapeutic) effects, to get Shatapaka Guduchi Taila (Sharma et al., 2024). Guduchi is regarded as the best drug for the management of Vataraktam (ED-8 Rheumatoid Arthritis) (Sharma et al., 2024). Multiple formulations have been described in Ayurveda texts that contain Guduchi as the main ingredient or as a constituent. There are 98 references available for the indication of Guduchi in Vataraktam, where the maximum used dosage form is Kashaya/Kwatha (decoction) with 41 formulations (Sharma et al., 2024; Shedbale et al., 2025). Properties of Tila Taila help to combat the vitiated Vata and Rakta. (Bhavaprakasha Nighantu, n.d.; Madanapala Nighantu n.d.) The ushna (hot) veerya (potency) pacifies the Vata, and madhura vipaka (biotransformation) works on Rakta vitiation. It also possesses properties of balya (strengthening), chakshushya (promotes eyesight), Deepana (promotes digestion), keshya (strengthens hair), etc., (Sharma et al., 2024). Goksheera (cow milk) is commonly utilised as a dietary source in all age groups. Ayurveda advises Goksheera be taken daily and regards it as the Rasayana (rejuvenating) based upon its properties (Sharma et al., 2025). It pacifies the Vata and Pitta Dosha, Vata and Rakta, enhances the complexion, and is an immuno-regulator (Sharma et al., 2024). This mode of action, which is based on rasa, guna, veerya, vipaka, and karma, supports the efficacy of SGT in treating Vataraktam on the lines of Ayurveda fundamentals. Moreover, this study aims to provide evidence based on the mode of action of phytochemical compounds, thereby contributing to the validation of traditional knowledge in the context of ED-8 Rheumatoid Arthritis and other related disorders.

The GC-MS analysis of Shatapaka Guduchi Taila reveals 12 total compounds, as listed in Table 3. This analysis of the sample revealed a complex phytochemical and lipid-based profile comprising aldehydes, lactones, fatty acid esters, terpenoids, sterols, and polyphenolic derivatives. Compound identification was accomplished through comparison with the NIST 20 mass spectral library, yielding high similarity indices (SI ≥ 90), thereby confirming the reliability of identification. The predominance of bioactive compounds with reported antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and chemo-preventive properties suggest potential pharmacological relevance of the analysed sample. The common activity of the compounds is reported in Table 4.

In this GC-MS analysis, Cholesterol, 2,6-Bis(3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl)-3,7-dioxabicyclo (3.3.0) octane, Laurin, 2-capri-1,3-di-, and Beta-Sitosterol acetate, has the highest area and height ratio, which is linked to the highest concentration of the phytochemical in the compound in SGT.

Cholesterol is essential for cellular integrity, immune regulation, and inflammatory balance. It maintains membrane stability and signalling and serves as a precursor for steroid hormones, bile acids, and vitamin D, supporting physiological homeostasis (Cortes et al., 2014). Balanced cholesterol levels regulate immune cell activity, whereas dysregulated metabolism promotes macrophage activation and chronic inflammation (Tall et al., 2015; Aguilar-Ballester et al., 2020). In rheumatoid arthritis and related inflammatory joint disorders, cholesterol imbalance is associated with disease progression and inflammatory burden (Lei et al., 2023; Robinson et al., 2022). From an Ayurvedic perspective, these functions are parallel to sneha and meda dhatu metabolism, which supports Vata alleviation and joint lubrication (sandhi snehana) (Agnivesha, 1983). Thus, physiological cholesterol balance can help in inflammatory modulation in Vataraktam-like conditions, while excess or oxidised cholesterol may contribute to Rakta vitiation and disease aggravation (Susruta, 2001; Agnivesha, 1983).

2,6-Bis(3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl)-3,7-dioxabicyclo (3.3.0) octane

A furofuran lignan, has demonstrated antioxidant activity due to its catechol-like structure. Related sesamin metabolites with the same 3,7-dioxabicyclo (3.3.0) octane core effectively scavenge reactive oxygen species, highlighting their potential to modulate oxidative stress (Nakai et al., 2003). Since oxidative stress contributes to rheumatoid arthritis pathogenesis by promoting inflammation and joint damage, antioxidants like this compound may help reduce inflammatory cascades and tissue injury in RA (Robinson et al., 2022).

Laurin, 2-capri-1,3-di- (Monolaurin (glycerol monolaurate)), a derivative of lauric acid, has demonstrated broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria isolated from skin infections, with strong sensitivity and low resistance rates in vitro (Carpo et al., 2007). Also showing inhibition of antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in atopic dermatitis without cytotoxicity, suggesting potential value in treating resistant skin disorders (Laowansiri et al., 2025). Additionally, it exhibits antibiofilm activity, which is critical for managing chronic or wound-associated bacterial colonisation (Hassan et al., 2024). Although no direct studies have examined monolaurin in rheumatoid arthritis, the pathophysiology of RA involves significant oxidative stress and immune dysregulation, and antioxidant interventions have shown moderate benefits in reducing oxidative damage and inflammation in RA contexts (Djordjevic et al., 2023). These findings support the broader concept that compounds combining antimicrobial and antioxidant activities may have relevance in inflammatory and immune-mediated disorders.

Beta-Sitosterol acetate or β-Sitosterol

A common plant phytosterol, has widely reported its antiinflammatory and antioxidant properties. In cellular and animal models, it has shown suppression of key inflammatory mediators such as TNFα, IL1β, and IL6, inhibit inflammasome activation and NFκB signalling, and reduces reactive oxygen species, demonstrating its capacity to downregulate inflammatory responses and oxidative stress in vitro and in vivo. It reduced oxidative stress and neutrophil recruitment in a zebrafish inflammation model by increasing antioxidant enzymes like sod and gpx4b, while decreasing pro-inflammatory genes such as il-8 and myd88, highlighting its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory in inflammatory disorders (Zhang et al., 2023). Additionally, in RA, βsitosterol has exhibited antiarthritic actions by inhibiting synovial angiogenesis, reducing joint swelling and cartilage damage, suppressing VEGF signalling, and improving redox balance in collageninduced arthritis models, suggesting therapeutic potential for RA. These findings support the idea that β-sitosterol and its derivatives may mitigate inflammation and oxidative stress mechanisms involved in RA pathogenesis (Qian et al., 2022).

Antioxidant Potentials of Identified Compounds

Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of metabolic and chronic inflammatory disorders like RA and cancer. Several compounds identified in GC–MS analysis of SGT are well documented for their antioxidant properties. Maltol, a pyranone derivative detected in the early elution phase, is known for its potent free radical scavenging ability and inhibition of lipid peroxidation (Halliwell et al., 1994). Squalene, a triterpenoid hydrocarbon identified with high confidence, functions as a chain-breaking antioxidant that protects cellular membranes from oxidative damage (Hien et al., 2017; Abuobeid et al., 2022). Tocopherol-related chroman derivatives identified in the sample further enhance antioxidant defence by neutralising Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and preventing oxidative degradation of polyunsaturated fatty acids (Lakkadi et al., 2024). Methylenedioxyphenyl-containing compounds, which formed a significant proportion of the chromatographic area, are reported to exert strong antioxidant effects through modulation of redox-sensitive pathways and metal chelation. Collectively, the abundance of these antioxidant constituents suggests that the sample possesses substantial oxidative stress-modulating potential, which is particularly relevant in inflammation-driven disorders (Halliwell et al., 2006).

Anti-Inflammatory Potentials of Identified Compounds

Inflammation is a central pathological feature underlying rheumatoid arthritis, and other metabolic diseases. Phytosterols such as β-sitosterol acetate identified in the present study are widely reported to suppress inflammatory mediators, including Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), TNF-α, and interleukins (Loizou et al., 2010; Vilahur et al., 2019; Marahatha et al., 2021). Squalene has also been shown to attenuate inflammatory signalling by modulating NF-κB activation and reducing oxidative inflammation (Ibrahim et al., 2021). Additionally, lactone derivatives such as tetrahydro-2H-pyran-2-one analogues contribute to anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting nitric oxide synthesis and prostaglandin release. The cumulative presence of these compounds suggests that the sample may exert multi-targeted anti-inflammatory effects, supporting its relevance in chronic inflammatory conditions (Gan et al., 2019).

Anticancer and Chemopreventive Potentials of Identified Compounds

Several compounds identified in the GC-MS profile of SGT, like Maltol, 2-Decenal, (E)-, Squalene, 2H-Pyran-2-one, and tetrahydro-6-tridecyl have been associated with anticancer or chemopreventive activities. Squalene has been extensively studied for its ability to inhibit tumour progression, enhance immune surveillance, and reduce oxidative DNA damage (Abuobeid et al., 2022). Methylenedioxyphenyl derivatives are structurally linked to apoptosis induction and inhibition of carcinogen-activating enzymes. Tocopherol analogues further contribute by protecting cellular DNA from oxidative mutations (Woyengo et al., 2009). Although direct anticancer activity cannot be concluded from chemical profiling alone, the presence of these compounds provides a scientific basis for further in vitro and in vivo investigations aimed at evaluating the chemopreventive potential of the sample.

In summary, the GC-MS analysis of compounds of SGT, collectively confers antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and potential chemopreventive benefits, aligning with Ayurvedic principles of Vataraktam modulation while paralleling ED-8 RA pathogenesis management through ROS scavenging, cytokine suppression, and membrane stabilisation. This phytochemical synergy positions SGT as a promising candidate for further validation in inflammatory disorders, bridging traditional formulation wisdom with evidence-based therapeutic potentials.

Table 4: Common Activity of the Compounds.
Sl. No.ActivityNumberName of the Compound
1.Anti-Oxidant6Maltol; 9-Octadecenoic acid (Z)-, oxiranylmethyl ester; (R)-6-Methoxy-2,8-dimethyl-2-((4R,8R)-4,8,12-trimethyltridecyl) chroman; Beta-Sitosterol acetate; 3-(Octanoyloxy) propane-1,2-diyl bis(decanoate); 2,6-Bis(3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl)-3,7-dioxabicyclo (3.3.0) octane
2.Anti-Cancerous42-Decenal, (E); Maltol; 2H-Pyran-2-one, tetrahydro-6-tridecyl; Squalene
3.Anti-Inflammatory7Maltol; 2H-Pyran-2-one, tetrahydro-6-nonyl-; 9-Octadecenoic acid (Z)-; oxiranylmethyl ester; Squalene; (R)-6-Methoxy-2,8-dimethyl-2-((4R,8R)-4,8,12-trimethyltridecyl) chroman; Beta-Sitosterol acetate; 3-(Octanoyloxy) propane-1,2-diyl bis(decanoate)
4.Anti-Bacterial4Laurin, 2-capri-1,3-di-; 9-Octadecenoic acid (Z)-; oxiranylmethyl ester

CONCLUSION

The GC-MS profiling of Shatapaka Guduchi Taila (SGT) identified 12 bioactive compounds, predominantly cholesterol (49.06%), 2,6-Bis(3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl)-3,7-dioxabicyclo (3.3.0) octane (32.69%), and β-sitosterol acetate, revealing a rich lipid matrix with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and antimicrobial potentials. These phytoconstituents align with Ayurvedic principles of Vataraktam management through sneha guna and dhatu nourishment, paralleling RA pathogenesis management via ROS scavenging, cytokine suppression, immuno-modulation and membrane stabilisation. SGT thus emerges as a promising Rasayana (rejuvenative and therapeutic) candidate bridging classical wisdom with evidence-based rheumatological therapeutics, warranting advanced in vitro/in vivo validation.

Acknowledgement

The authors express their sincere gratitude to The Indian Medical Practitioner’s Co-operative Pharmacy Stores Ltd., Chennai, Tamil Nadu, for their support in the preparation, authentication, and physicochemical analysis of Shatapaka Guduchi Taila as per Ayurveda Pharmacopoeia standards. The authors also acknowledge the Centre for Analytical Instrumentation, Kerala Forest Research Institute, Peechi, Thrissur District, Kerala, for facilitating the GC-MS analysis of the formulation samples.

Funding

Nil

Conflict of Interest

The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest.

Author Contributions

PS: A-F; PPH: A-F; SKS: E; AC: E; SAD: C-D; SST: C, E; VS: B-D; SDK: D, F.

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Hemke, P. P., Sharma, P., Shetty, S. K., Chougale, A., Dixit, S. A., Thakur, S. S., Shukla, V., & Konkeri, S. D. (2026). GC-MS Phytochemical Profiling of Shatapaka Guduchi Taila with Therapeutic Insights into Vataraktam (ED-8 Rheumatoid Arthritis). Pharmacognosy Research, 18(4), 1386-1394. https://doi.org/10.5530/pres.20260010

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