Cross-Sectional Survey of Physician-Reported Usage Patterns and GC–MS Phytochemical Profiling of Mahabala Tailam

Abstract

Background

Mahabala Tailam is a traditional Ayurvedic formulation mentioned in the classical text called Bhaishajya Ratnavali. It is often used in clinical settings to treat a variety of diseases like neurological, reproductive, and musculoskeletal disorders. Even though it is still being used, there isn’t much detailed information about how doctors prescribe it or what they think about how well it works in the clinic. The phytochemical documentation also limited.

Aim

To document real-world usage patterns, indications, and physician-reported perceptions of clinical utility of Mahabala Tailam and characterize the phytochemical profile of formulation using GC–MS analysis.

Materials and Methods

A structured and validated questionnaire was used to conduct a cross-sectional survey among 303 registered Ayurvedic physicians. Questionnaire validation included face validity, Content validity index (CVI), and scale-level content validity index (SCVI). Clinical experiences, prescription practices, and indications were all recorded in the survey. Regression analysis, Spearman’s correlation, chi-square tests, and descriptive techniques were used for statistical analyses. Additionally, the formulation was subjected to GC-MS analysis, and compounds were tentatively identified based on retention indices and comparison with the NIST library (National Institute of Standards and Technology Mass Spectral Library).

Results

The questionnaire demonstrated high validity, with content validity index (CVI) of 0.95 and a scale-level content validity index (S-CVI) of 0.94. Among respondents, 54% reported routine use of Mahabala Tailam, and 45% employed it both internally and externally. Physicians most commonly reported its use in musculoskeletal conditions (89.7%), neurodegenerative disorders (66.1%), and male reproductive health conditions (29.3%). GC–MS analysis identified multiple non-polar phytochemical constituents, including sesquiterpenes (α-cadinol, δ-cadinene, caryophyllene, longifolene), phenylpropanoids (apiol), and fatty acids and their derivatives. Statistical analyses indicated significant associations between physician experience (p < 0.001), usage patterns (p < 0.049), and physician-reported perceptions of clinical utility (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The results depict prevailing prescription practices and physician perceptions on Mahabala Tailam in clinical practice. Although the phytochemical profile presents potential pharmacological relevance, further it should be quantitative analysis along with safety studies are needed to support the claims.