Qualitative analysis of castor oil per Indian Pharmacopeia and FSSAI.

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Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Qualitative analysis of marketed castor oil according to indian pharmacopiea and fssai
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Original source:

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Author:

Kandula Thanuja Reddy, Dr. Samavenkatesh, Maddi Phanisri and Sunkara Namratha


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Qualitative analysis of marketed castor oil according to indian pharmacopiea and fssai

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20197-14952

Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The study conducted by Kandula Thanuja Reddy et al. focuses on the qualitative analysis of marketed castor oil according to the standards set by the Indian Pharmacopoeia and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Castor oil, derived from the seeds of Ricinus Communis, is widely used in pharmaceutical, therapeutic, and cosmetic applications, owing to its numerous health benefits. However, the adulteration of nutritional oils, including castor oil, with low-grade oils poses significant health risks. The research aimed to analyze ten samples of castor oil, assessing their quality and suitability for consumption.

Importance of Chemical Composition

One crucial concept from the study is the chemical composition of castor oil, primarily composed of ricinoleic acid, which constitutes 85-95% of its content. Ricinoleic acid is a unique monounsaturated fatty acid with hydroxyl functional groups, granting it distinctive chemical properties, including increased polarity and unique reactivity. This molecular structure not only makes castor oil a valuable feedstock in various industries but also allows for diverse chemical derivatizations, enhancing its application in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding the chemical makeup of castor oil, as it plays a crucial role in its functionality and market value.

Assessment of Quality Parameters

The study presents an in-depth analysis of various quality parameters of the castor oil samples, including physical and chemical constants such as specific gravity, refractive index, acidity, and peroxide value. The research revealed that certain samples exceeded the permissible limits for factors such as acid value and peroxide value, indicating poor quality. For instance, some unpacked samples showed elevated levels of rancidity, likely due to oxidation during storage. These findings highlight the necessity for rigorous quality controls in the production and packaging of castor oil to ensure consumer safety and adherence to health standards.

Adulteration and Its Detection

Another significant theme in the research is the detection of adulteration in castor oil samples. The study utilized various tests to identify the presence of low-grade oils, such as sesame and mineral oils. Results from the analysis indicated that several unpacked samples contained traces of adulterants, which could lead to severe health repercussions for consumers. The methodology applied for detecting adulteration underscores the importance of stringent testing protocols in the oil market. This aspect of the study serves as a critical reminder of the potential health risks associated with using impure or adulterated oils.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the research findings emphasize the critical need for stringent regulations governing the quality and authenticity of castor oil in the market. The study reveals that some samples are unfit for consumption due to elevated quality parameters, indicating adulteration or poor storage conditions. The authors advocate for the implementation of robust measures to prevent oil adulteration, including better storage practices and thorough labeling as per FSSAI guidelines. Continuous monitoring of oil quality is vital to safeguard public health and ensure that consumers access safe and pure products. The awareness and education of consumers about the risks of adulteration are essential in promoting health and safety in the nutritional oil market.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is castor oil and its primary use?

Castor oil is a fixed oil derived from the seeds of Ricinus communis. It is commonly used as a laxative and in pharmaceuticals, as well as in skincare due to its moisturizing properties.

What are the common adulterants found in castor oil?

The qualitative analysis indicated that some castor oil samples were adulterated with low-grade oils, leading to high peroxide and acetyl values, rendering them unfit for consumption.

How was the quality of castor oil assessed in the study?

The quality of marketed castor oil was evaluated using physical and chemical tests according to Indian Pharmacopeia and FSSAI guidelines, assessing parameters like acidity, peroxide values, and specific gravities.

What health risks are associated with consuming adulterated castor oil?

Adulterated castor oil may cause serious health issues due to the presence of harmful low-grade oils, which can lead to increased free fatty acids and rancidity.

How does the study suggest preventing castor oil adulteration?

The study recommends stringent government measures, proper labeling, storage conditions, and regular quality checks to safeguard public health from adulterated oils.

What role does ricinoleic acid play in castor oil's benefits?

Ricinoleic acid, a major component of castor oil, provides its therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory effects and skin benefits, making it valuable in various pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Qualitative analysis of castor oil per Indian Pharmacopeia and FSSAI.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Water:
Water is vital for life and plays a crucial role in many chemical processes, including the extraction and refinement of oils. In the context of castor oil production, it is used during tests like the acid value determination, where it is necessary for dissolving substances and performing titrations.

2) Castor:
Castor refers to castor oil, a vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. It has diverse applications in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. The study evaluates the quality of different castor oil samples to ensure safety and efficacy based on established standards like the Indian Pharmacopoeia.

3) Substance:
Substances refer to individual forms of matter with specific compositions. In the context of the research, various substances are tested to identify potential adulterants in castor oil. Knowledge about these substances allows for the implementation of safety standards to enhance consumer health protection.

4) Oil:
Oils are lipid-based substances that can be derived from plants or animals. This research involved the qualitative analysis of oils, particularly castor oil, addressing issues of purity and adulteration. Physical and chemical properties of oils are critical for determining their applications in medicine and manufacturing.

5) Table:
In scientific literature, a table summarizes data, facilitating comparison and analysis. The research on castor oil includes tables with results from various tests, such as specific gravity and refractive index. This structured presentation aids in comprehensively understanding the quality and attributes of different samples analyzed.

6) Mineral:
Mineral refers to naturally occurring inorganic substances. The study tests for mineral oil contamination in castor oil samples. Contaminants like mineral oils can pose health risks, hence understanding their presence and effects is essential in ensuring the overall quality and safety of edible oils for consumers.

7) India:
India is the geographical context of the study, with specific regulatory standards such as the Indian Pharmacopoeia and FSSAI guidelines influencing the evaluation of castor oil. The safety and quality of food and pharmaceutical products are critical for public health in such diverse markets.

8) Merchant:
Merchant typically denotes a trader or seller, often referring to individuals or companies involved in the sale of products. In the context of this study, various oil merchants are mentioned regarding their products, emphasizing the importance of accountability and quality assurance in the supply chain for castor oil.

9) Ranga (Ramga):
Ranga refers to Ranga Reddy District in Telangana, India, where the study was conducted. The geographical location is significant as it relates to the local practices in oil production and marketing, potentially influencing the quality and variety of castor oil sold in the region.

10) Ricinus communis:
Ricinus communis, commonly known as the castor oil plant, is the source of castor oil. Understanding its botanical, chemical, and functional characteristics is crucial for analyzing the oil's properties. This knowledge underpins its industrial, therapeutic, and cosmetic applications.

11) Heating:
Heating is essential in the oil extraction process, as it helps in extracting the oil from seeds and breaking down compounds like ricin. It can also affect the quality of the oil, as excessive heat may lead to degradation and the formation of undesirable substances.

12) Family:
Family refers to the classification in biological taxonomy. Ricinus communis belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. Understanding its classification is important in studies of plant-derived substances, enabling researchers to identify relationships among species and their potential economic and medicinal uses.

13) Indian:
Indian refers to the context of the study being conducted in India, adhering to local standards like the Indian Pharmacopoeia. The research highlights the significance of ensuring the safety and quality of herbal products like castor oil available in the Indian market.

14) Glass:
Glass is a common laboratory material used in various instruments, including beakers, flasks, and pipettes in chemical analyses. The study utilizes glass apparatus for testing oil samples, ensuring accurate measurements and controlled reactions while maintaining the material's integrity during experimentation.

15) Drug:
Drugs encompass a wide range of substances used for medical purposes. The text discusses the role of castor oil and its derivatives in pharmaceutical formulations, highlighting its significance in drug discovery and therapeutic applications across various medical fields.

16) Chemotherapy:
Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to treat cancer. The text notes applications of castor oil derivatives in drug formulations such as mitotic inhibitors. Understanding its role in drug delivery systems enhances knowledge about how natural substances can aid in cancer treatment.

17) Kandula (Kamdula):
Kandula refers to Kandula Thanuja Reddy, the lead author of the study. Her research contributions are crucial in evaluating castor oil's quality. Acknowledging individual contributions in scientific studies recognizes the collaborative effort required in conducting thorough and impactful research.

18) Quality:
Quality signifies the acceptability of a product, determined by its chemical and physical properties. The study emphasizes the quality of castor oil, assessing samples against established standards to ensure they are fit for consumer use, thereby safeguarding public health.

19) Cancer:
Cancer refers to a range of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. The document highlights castor oil's medicinal components and acknowledges its derivatives used in chemotherapy, illustrating the significance of plant-based oils in treating serious health conditions.

20) Filling (Filled):
Filled refers to the process of containing or occupying space. This term appears in the context of measuring liquids, such as oil in specific laboratory apparatus. Accurate filling during scientific experiments is essential for obtaining precise results and maintaining the integrity of the study.

21) Fainting (Fainted):
Faint describes something weak or indistinct, often used in lab contexts to describe color changes during titrations or chemical reactions. A faint color change can indicate the threshold of a reaction, reflecting the sensitivity of the tests performed on castor oil.

22) Nakar:
Nagar is a term generally used in India that translates to 'town' or 'city'. In the context of this study, it relates to geographical location, important for recognizing regional economic activities in oil production and consumer practices in Ranga Reddy District.

23) Pain:
Pain refers to physical discomfort that can be alleviated by various means, including pharmaceuticals that may incorporate castor oil. The text implies potential therapeutic uses of castor oil derivatives in managing pain, reflecting its significance in herbal medicine and pain relief.

24) Calculation:
Calculation refers to the mathematical processes used in scientific experiments for determining values such as concentrations or titration results. The accuracy of calculations is essential for drawing reliable conclusions in quality assessments of castor oil and ensuring adherence to safety standards.

25) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
Transformed refers to a change in form or structure, often used in scientific discussions about chemical reactions. In the context of castor oil, it could relate to how the oil is altered during extraction or refining processes, impacting its properties and usability.

26) Discussion:
Discussion is a critical section in research where findings are interpreted and analyzed. In the context of this study, it allows for a comprehensive evaluation of the results obtained, placing them within the larger framework of existing knowledge on castor oil and safety standards.

27) Pregnant:
Pregnant refers to women who are expecting a child, and in the context of the document, it indicates that castor oil has historical uses, such as inducing labor. This highlights the oil's traditional medical significance and its role in herbal medicine for pregnancy-related issues.

28) Bharani:
Bharani likely refers to Bharani oil depot, a merchant or distributor mentioned in the context of sourcing and selling castor oil. It emphasizes the importance of local businesses in the supply chain of essential oils and their impact on product quality and availability.

29) Krishna (Krsna):
Krishna refers to Krishna Rao, possibly another oil merchant involved in the study. Identifying merchants allows researchers to understand various suppliers' roles in castor oil quality and regulation, emphasizing the importance of traceability in food safety.

30) Account:
Account here may refer to the documentation or record-keeping involved in the analysis of different oil samples. Accurate accounts are crucial for compliance with food safety regulations and for ensuring transparency in the production and distribution of oils like castor.

31) Purity:
Purity signifies the degree to which a substance is uncontaminated and is a critical factor in assessing the quality of castor oil. The study examines samples to identify adulteration, ensuring that products meet legal and safety standards for consumer protection.

32) Nature:
Nature refers to the inherent qualities or characteristics of castor oil and its components. Understanding the nature of the oil and its chemical properties is essential for its applications in various industries, including medical and cosmetic formulations.

33) Powder:
Powder refers to a solid material that is finely ground. In the context of measuring substances, powdered forms often serve as easier to handle for laboratory procedures. Powders may also indicate processed components essential in various formulations, including pharmaceuticals.

34) Ulcer:
An ulcer is a local defect or excavation on the surface of an organ or tissue. In relation to castor oil, it signifies medicinal usage, potentially underlining the importance of evaluating the quality and efficacy of oils intended for treating such health issues.

35) Labour (Labor):
Labor refers to the process of childbirth. Castor oil has historical usage as a natural laxative to induce labor. Understanding its role in this context heightens awareness of herbal remedies and their importance in traditional birthing practices.

36) Fight:
Fight refers to the action of combating or opposing something. In the context of health, it relates to the use of castor oil in therapies aimed at fighting conditions like inflammation, pain, or infections, underscoring its medicinal properties.

37) Food:
Food refers to substances consumed for nutritional benefits. The study addresses food safety through the analysis of castor oil, emphasizing the importance of quality control measures in ensuring that edible oils meet health regulations and standards.

38) Sign:
Sign indicates evidence or marker of a condition. In tests conducted, changes in color or chemical reactions often serve as signs of the presence of specific substances or impurities, assisting in determining quality and safety in castor oil assessments.

39) Road:
Road may refer to a pathway for transporting goods or reaching markets. It emphasizes the logistical aspect of distributing castor oil and its importance in connecting producers with consumers, impacting accessibility and economic viability.

40) Hand:
Hand in this context often symbolizes manipulation or control. Feasible quality control in processing and distribution of castor oil is necessary to safeguard health, underscoring the need for human oversight in health-related industries.

41) Dish (Dis):
Dish refers to containers used for serving food. In the context of the research, it may symbolize the application of castor oil in culinary practices or food production, highlighting the intersection of culinary arts and health when considering oil quality.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Qualitative analysis of castor oil per Indian Pharmacopeia and FSSAI.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Castor oil, Specific gravity, Qualitative analysis, Adulteration prevention, FSSAI, Saponification value, Iodine value, Acid value, Peroxide value, Unsaponifiable matter, Heavy metal, Rancidity test, Ricinoleic acid, Pharmaceutical application, Chemical reactivity.

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