Acute Dermal Toxicity Assessment of Ark Taila (An Ayurvedic Herbal Oil) in Wistar Albino Rats

Arka Taila is a classical Ayurvedic medicated oil Prepared by Swarasa Siddhi method mainly composed of Arka Patra Swarasa (juice of Calotropis leaves), Haridra Kalka (paste of Curcuma longa) and Sarshapa Taila (Mustard oil). It has traditionally been used in managing various skin disorders. Though its therapeutic benefits are proved by various researches scientific evidence regarding its dermal safety is limited. Objective: The objective of the present study was to evaluate the acute dermal toxicity and safety profile of Arka Taila in Wistar albino rats as per OECD Guideline 402. Methodology: Arka Taila was prepared classically and applied topically to the shaved dorsal skin of healthy female rats (n=3 per group) at three dose levels: the limit dose of 2000mg/kg, 1000 mg/kg, and 200mg/kg. Animals were observed daily for 14 days for mortality, toxicity, and behavioural changes. Local dermal reactions (erythema and edema) were scored. Body weights were recorded and a gross necropsy followed by histopathological examination of the vital organs was conducted at the end of the study. Result: a) No mortality or significant clinical and neurobehavioral signs of systemic toxicity were observed in any dose group throughout the period of 14 days. b) All the animals showed normal, steady body weight gain. c) Dermal examination revealed no edema at any of the doses. Only very slight, transient erythema was noted in few animals at 1000 and 2000mg/kg dose, which resolved spontaneously. d) Gross necropsy and histopathological analysis of the organs like skin, liver, kidney, and heart did not reveal any pathological lesions or toxicity to organs. Conclusion: Based on the outcomes of this toxicity study, it may be concluded that Arka Taila is non-irritant and safe upon acute dermal exposure to the limit dose of 2000 mg/kg body weight. This observation supports the traditional topical use of Arka Taila in dermatological practice.