Metabolic profiling of milk-based decoction prepared with roots of Desmodium gangeticum (L) DC (Prisniparni ksheerapaka) through HRLCMS QTOF

Abstract

Background:
Prisniparni ksheerapaka, a milk-based formulation using roots of Desmodium gangeticum (L.) DC is traditionally used in Ayurveda to manage various cardiovascular conditions. Its cardioprotective effects have been demonstrated in isolated frog heart, H9C2 cell models, and in a clinical study on stable angina patients. However, data on its detailed phytochemical composition and mechanisms of action remain limited, hindering its scientific validation.

Objective:
This study aimed untargeted profiling of chemical constituents of Prisniparni ksheerapaka using HPTLC and HR-LCMS QTOF.

Material and Methods:
Ksheerapaka was prepared as per Śārṅgadhara Saṃhitā (Madhyama Khanda). Prominent bands observed in the HPTLC chromatogram were scraped and subjected to HR-LCMS QTOF analysis. Both positive and negative ESI modes were employed, and MS/MS fragmentation was used for compound identification. Acquisition parameters were saved in a dedicated method file.

Results:
A total of 90 phytoconstituents were detected in positive mode and 6 in negative mode; 60 were successfully identified through spectral library matching. These included alkaloids, steroids, saponins, amino compounds, glycosides, and dipeptides.

Conclusion:
The formulation showed a diverse phytochemical profile supporting its therapeutic use. The current solvent system favoured low to moderately polar compounds. Future studies using solvents of varying polarity are recommended to identify additional, especially highly polar, constituents for a more complete profile