Towards Standardization–A New Protocol for Oil drop test (Neikuri) in Healthy Subjects

Background: Oil drop test (Neikuri), a method of urine examination used in Siddha Medicine, an Indian system of medicine. In this test, patient urine is collected in a vessel, over which a drop of sesame oil is placed and the behavior of the oil drop on the urine surface is noted. However, due to lack of a standardized protocol for this test and advancement of modern diagnostic facilities, the utility value of this test has decreased to a greater extent. Objectives: To develop a new protocol for oil drop test in healthy subjects, so that it can be used as a standard reference to compare with other pathological conditions. Methods and Material: Urine samples of 12 healthy volunteers aged between 18 to 25 years were collected. Biochemical analysis was done in the urine samples with urine reagent strip to confirm health status of the subjects. 12 μl of sesame oil was dropped over 30 ml of each urine sample and behavior (shape of the oil spread, direction and spread time) was observed. Results: Majority of the samples showed circular shape and the most appropriate time to record it after 15 min of the test procedure. Conclusion: This test protocol can be taken as a standard technique for Oil drop test. However, further studies must be done in larger population so that it can be used as a non invasive and cost effective diagnostic/prognostic tool.