Pittala (Brass) in Traditional Indian Knowledge System: A Review

Brass (Pittala) is a very popular and common metal alloy typically comprised of 66% copper and 34% zinc. Undoubtedly, it has a much longer history than Zinc. Ayurvedic treatises such as Charaka Samhita (2nd century BC) and Sushruta Samhita (3rd century BC) have mentioned some instruments used for various therapies and surgical procedures made of Pittala such as Jeevah-nirlekhana (tongue scarper), Vasti Netra etc. The original Sanskrit equivalent for brass was Riti, the word Pittala being subsequently adopted for it. In Kautilya Arthasastra (4th century) it is known as Arakuta. Pittala kills a large number of microorganisms within a few minutes to hours of contact. So, it is a good antifouling material. Its ethno-medicinal use is in Raktapitta, Krimi, Kushta and Pandu Roga. Probably, there is no available literary research study done on Pittala so far. Most of the information is obtained from Rasa Ratan Samuchchaya. Pittala Bhasma retains the property of both Tamra (copper) and Yashada (zinc). It has Tikta Rasa (bitter taste), and its Virya (temperament) is either Ushna (hot) or Sheeta (cold), which depends on the variety of Pittala and various drugs used in the process to make Bhasma. It appears from the thorough search of the process of Marana, that its Bhasma preparation is easier than Tamra.

Pharmaceutico-Analytical Study of Vanaspati Jarita Marita Yashada Bhasma

Yashada is one of the Sapta dhatu, which is chemically Zn, Yashada bhasma is used therapeutically in many diseases like Prameha, Pandu, Vatavyadi etc., in the form of Bhasma (ZnO). Objectives: To prepare Yashada bhasma and its physico-chemical analysis of Yashada bhasma. Materials and Methods: Yashada was subjected Samanya Shodhana, Vishesha Shodhana and Jarana as per Rasatarangini. Yashada marana was done as per Rasayana sara. Bhasma was subjected to physico-chemical analysis which mainly included classical Bhasma parikshas like Rekhapurnata, Varitara, Unama, Nischandrata etc and modern parameters like Acid Insoluble Ash, pH, Total Ash value etc and advanced analytical techniques like XRD, SEM and AAS. Results: After 1st Puta pale yellow colored Yashada bhasma passed classical Bhasma parikshas. In classical reference two Puta are mentioned so, the 2nd Puta was given. XRD reports shows major peaks which were identified as Zinc oxide (ZnO) compound. Hence indicates complete transformation of metal to Bhasma form. Scanning electron microscopy in Yashada Bhasma after 2nd Puta the particle size ranging from 5-10μm. AAS reports shows zinc percentage of 77.08% after 2nd Puta. Conclusion: Pale yellow coloured Yashada bhasma was prepared after two Gaja putas which passed the classical Bhasma parikshas.

Effectiveness of Multimodal Ayurvedic Treatment in Vataja Pandu w.s.r Nutritional Deficiency Anemia - A Case Report

Panduroga is a condition where in Pitta Pradhana Tridoshas affect the Dhathus causing deterioration of Varna and Bala, leading to Twak Vaivarnyatha or Pandutha. In present day medical science, symptoms of Pandu are alike to that of anaemia. Anemia is a condition presenting with a depletion of hemoglobin concentration below normal values, or Hematocrit or Red blood cells in the blood. On an average, about 30% or nearly one third of world’s population is claimed to be affected by anemia because of numerous causes. In India prevalence is extremely high compared to world prevalence, close to 51%. Nutritional macrocytic anemia (NMA) in prevailing population and in pregnancy, commonly seen in India, most likely represents combined deficiency of iron, folic acid and vitamin B12. A 45 years old female presented with complaints of Panduta (Pallor of skin), Daurbalya (weakness), Aruchi (loss of appetite), Padashopha (pedal oedema), Pindikodweshtana (leg cramps), Shrama Shwasa (exertional dyspnoea) and Hriddrava (palpitation) with haemoglobin concentration 3.7gm% visited OPD of SJIIM, GAMC, Bengaluru. Initially she was started with oral medications followed by admission to in-patient ward on the succeeding visit. The present case study is intended to understand the accuracy of multimodal Ayurvedic approach consisting of oral medications and Matra Basti with Dadimadya Ghrita, in the management of Panduroga and is found to be effective in overcoming Vataja Pandu

Swarna Makshika Bhasma preparation using an alternative heating method to traditional Varaha Puta

Background: Metals, minerals and gemstones are used to prepare drugs in combination with variousherbal materials in ayurvedic treatments. During the process of preparation, metals, minerals or gemstones are converted into special form known as bhasma by series of pharmaceutical processes; shodhana, bhavana and marana. Puta is the amount of heat required to produce specific bhasma in a cycle oftreatment in the process of marana. Traditionally, heat is produced by burning cow dung cakes and theamount of heat to be provided is described in terms of cow dung cakes (fuel) burnt.Objective: The present study was aimed to obtain the temperature profile of the traditional Varaha Putaand to establish a complementary temperature profile in a muffle furnace.Materials and methods: The temperature profile of Varaha puta was determined using dried cow dungcakes (which were prepared using cow dung and paddy husk) with an average calorific value of 15.44 MJ/kg as the fuel. Then temperature profile of traditional Varaha Puta was mapped with an electric mufflefurnace and Swarna Makshika (Chalcopyrite) bhasma was prepared using both traditional method and inelectric muffle furnace.Results: Bhasma prepared using both Varaha Puta and muffle furnace have shown similar propertiesaccording to classical tests of Ayurveda and laboratory techniques.Conclusion: The results show the possibility of using a muffle furnace to prepare Swarna Makshikabhasma instead of using traditional Varaha Puta

Synthesis and characterization of Abhraka (mica) bhasma by two different methods

Background: Bhasmas are traditional Ayurvedic medicines prepared from minerals and metals by tediousprocess which removes toxic properties of metals and minerals and enhances medicinal properties. Wehave synthesized abhraka bhasma by two traditional methods and were analyzed during each stage ofpreparation.Objective: The present study deals with the synthesis and characterization of abhraka bhasma by twodifferent methods, method-1 is commonly used for treating anemia and tropical sprue and method-2 fortreating chronic cough. Hence attempts have been made to see the physico-chemical differences between these methods by using different analytical techniques.Material and methods: Different steps in preparation of abhraka bhasma includes shodhana (purification),dhanyabhraka, marana (incineration) and amritikarana. The prepared bhasma were analyzed by classicalayurvedic tests and modern analytical techniques like XRD, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, SEM, TEM, EDX,BET, DLS and TGA/DTA.Results: The morphological characterization revealed that as-prepared abhraka bhasma products werenano crystalline in nature. Elemental analysis confirms presence of various elements along with carbonsuggesting bhasma as herbo-mineral compound. The XRD studies revealed the presence of KMg3(Si3Al)O10(OH)2 in bhasmas.Conclusion: Characterization study revealed presence of various bonds of different functional groups andformation of nano particles. Abhraka bhasma prepared by method-2 has more proportion of nano particles than that prepared by method-1 and hence will be more effective in its use.

Physico-chemical characterization of traditionally prepared Yashada bhasma

Background: Yashada bhasma has been found to be very useful for the treatment of ailments like diabetes, eye disorder, urinary disorder etc. Since bhasma is a metallic preparation, so to prove its nontoxicity; modern standardization of the prepared samples is a must apart from other organoleptictests as mentioned in the ancient text.Objectives: The present study is aimed to synthesize bio-compatible Yashada bhasma from bioincompatible zinc metal. Further, comparative study of their chemical and physical properties throughsome quality control tests, physico-chemical tests and modern tests like XRD, DLS, Zeta potential, SEMand EDAX are carried out.Materials and methods: Yashada bhasma is prepared by a three step process i.e. Shodhan, Jarana andMarana. The inclusion of plant extracts and herbs during calcination process enhances its medicinalqualities, and reduces it to a nano size.Results: The XRD analysis of Yashada bhasma shows hexagonal ZnO crystalline phase whereas the rawmetal confirms the presence of crystallite Zinc metal. DLS shows reduction in particle size of YashadaBhasma (339.8 nm) as compared to raw metal (2063 nm) and this reduction is further supported by SEMwhich shows the particle size of Yashada bhasma (324 nm) and raw metal (1-2m). The zeta potential valueconfirms the stability of Yashada bhasma. EDAX revealed difference in concentration of Zinc and Oxygenin both the samples.Conclusion: An effort has been made to characterize the preparation of Yashada bhasma using sophisticated analytical tools as a step towards standardization of the bhasma. The results help in scientificallyestablishing the findings in line with the principle of Ayurveda.

Effect of Puta on in vitro anticancer activity of Shataputi AbhrakBhasma on lung, leukemia and prostate cancer cell lines

Background: Rasashastra needs to be upgraded using the technological advances, with regards to drugprocessing, development and therapeutics. The potential of Rasaaushadhis need to be explored by subjecting them against newer life threatening diseases like cancer where contemporary medicine haslimitations. Abhrak Bhasma, one of the drugs of Rasashastra, has some peculiar attributes. According toclassical Rasashastra texts, Shataputi Abhrak Bhasma is regarded as a Rasayan, whose efficacy is in directproportion to the number of Putas. Thus increasing number of Putas not only has a significant effect onthe physical, analytical aspects but also the therapeutic effect of the Abhrak Bhasma.Objectives: To screen in vitro anticancer activity of Abhrak Bhasma at various stages of Putas (20, 50, 100).To evaluate and thus validate the principle from classical Rasashastra texts, which explains direct relationof number of Putas with therapeutic efficacy.Materials and methods: Shataputi Abhrak Bhasma, at various stages of its preparation was subjected toin vitro anticancer activity on three different cancer cell lines (LungHOP62, LeukemiaU937, ProstateDU145) at Tata Memorial Centre- Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research Education in Cancer, NaviMumbai. SRB assay was followed to evaluate the anti-proliferative activity.Results: It was found that Abhrak Bhasma shows concentration dependent positive in vitro anticanceractivity on all three cell lines with highly significant activity on prostate cancer cell lines. Anticanceractivity of Abhrak Bhasma is in the order 100 Puti > 50 Puti > 20 Puti. Shataputi Abhrak Bhasma hadmaximum activity on prostate cancer cell lines almost equivalent to positive control drug adriamycin.Conclusion: The in vitro anticancer activity of Shataputi Abhrak Bhasma increases with increasing numberof Putas, thus revalidating the direct relation between number of Putas and efficacy of the drug.© 2017 Transdisciplinary University, Bangalore and World Ayurveda Foundation. Publishing Services byElsevier B.V

Pharmaceutical Standardization Of Yashada Bhasma

Rasa Shastra is the pharmaceutical branch of Ayurveda. As like any other medical system, success of Ayurvedic treatment also depends upon quality of medicine prescribed to the patient. The integral part of Rasa Shastra lies in the successful pharmaceutical process. Bhasma are the potent Ayurvedic preparations prepared by metals and minerals. These Bhasma possess wide range of therapeutic efficacy and are considered superior because of their qualities like small dose, quick action, palatability and longer shelf life. Yashada bhasma is important formulation mentioned in Rasa shastra texts obtained from the incineration of Raw Yashada. The pharmaceutical procedures adopted in this study are Shodhana, Jarana, Marana. The present study has been planned to standardize the method of preparation of Yashada bhasma according to the method explained in the classical literature.

Pharmaceutical Preparation Of Tamra Bhasma

Bhasma occupy the highest attention and have got a very unique place because of their small doses, tastelessness, quick action, easy absorption and also their prolonged shelf life, wide range of therapeutic efficacy and better rejuvenating (Rasayana) effects. Metals and minerals are integral part of therapeutics in Ayurveda and Tamra is one of such metals which if properly processed and detoxified is useful in many diseases. But if not processed properly it shows many ill effects called Ashtmaha Dosha. In the present study Tamra Bhasma was prepared by using Tamra Patra. This study included procedures like Shodhana, Marana, Amrutikarana as per classical texts. 380gm of raw Tamra Patra were taken. Samanya and Vishesha Shodhana were done as per reference of Rasa Ratna Samuchya. After complete Shodhana, total 350gm Shudha Tamra was obtained. Loss in weight after Shodhana may be due to loss in impurities present in raw Tamra. Total 21 Puta were given in the electrical muffle furnace to prepare Tamra Bhasma. Specific temperature pattern was adopted for Puta in the electrical muffle furnace. Total 300gm of Tamra Bhasma was obtained. After each Puta there was significant loss in weight of Tamra may be due to loss in hardness and impurities. Marana was followed by Amrutikarana and net weight of Tamra Bhasma obtained was 330gm. 30gm weight gain may be due to the organic material used for the Amrutikarana process. Color of Bhasma became black after Amrutikarana.

Abhraka Bhasma A Boon Of Ayurveda To Mankind: A Review

Abhraka bhasma is a popular Rasashastra medicine in Ayurveda stream. It is basically herbomineral preparation used by all Ayurvedic Vaidyas since long time. Abhraka is basically Mica (Biotite). Bhasma is nothing but incinerated ash. Rasashastra is an Indian metallurgy which deals with several minerals and herbomineral preparations specially Bhasmas. There are several popular bhasmas in Ayurveda but there is great demand of this Bhasma in Ayurvedic vaidyas. Use of this bhasma is in multiple disorders, so could be consider as a major Ayurvedic drug. Published details scientific literature on Abhraka bhasma by various research scholars, internet & pharmacopeias were reviewed. The review was done to find physicochemical characteristics as well as standardization studies done on Abhraka bhasma. Also attempt is to made to find scientific studies done on Abhraka bhasma. Need of hour to evaluate its efficacy value as potential Ayurvedic drug in various disorders. As well as importance of Abhraka bhasma as an evidence-based drug. Review of literatures and scientific studies of Abhraka bhasma clearly indicate that there are lot of studies is done on Abhraka bhasma’s specially it’s physicochemical characteristics, standardization as well as it’s therapeutic uses. Abhraka bhasma is indicated in several ailments like Diabetes, Asthma, Paralysis, Neurological condition, Tuberculosis and Acid peptic diseases.

Synthesis and characterization of Vanga bhasma

Background: Bhasmas are unique Ayurvedic organometallic preparations used for medicinal purpose.Quality of bhasma depends upon quality of starting materials, processing ingredients, meticulous trituration and heating cycle. In Ayurveda, Vanga bhasma is traditional Indian medicine which is anorganometallic preparation treated with plant extract. It is especially used in the treatments of diseasesrelated to gastrointestinal tract and genitor urinary system. However detailed characterization studiesafter synthesis are important which shows authenticity of product.Objective: The present study deals with the preparation of Vanga bhasma according to the procedurementioned in the Ayurvedic literature. Synthesized bhasma was characterized by various analyticaltechniques and also compared with commercial sample.Material and method: Different steps involved in synthesis of Vanga bhasma include shodhan (purification/detoxification), jaran (heating and stirring), bhavan (levigation) and maran (incineration).Bhasma was incinerated (maran process) by traditional method of heating as well as using mufflefurnace. These two products obtained from Maran (incineration) and commercial sample wereanalyzed for quality control checks, on the parameters described in Ayurvedic texts as well as moderntechniques such as TEM, SEM, EDX, XRD, DLS and FTIR were done to find out the nature and form ofthe drug prepared. The in vitro gastric and gastrointestinal (pancreatic) bioaccessibility of Bhasmawere also determined.Results: The study reveals that the synthesized Bhasma was converted into its nontoxic oxide form andhad a highly reduced particle size observed from SEM images. These studies reveal that Vanga Bhasmaprepared by traditional method of heating (Sn1) has 50% nanoparticles (150e300 nm range) that prepared by using electric muffle furnace (Sn2) has 100% nanoparticles (50e100 nm range) while commercial samples (Sn3) has 50% nanoparticles (100e300 nm range).Conclusion: The study confirmed the formation of organometallic compound (SnO2) at the end of themanufacturing process. The percentage bioaccessibility for gastrointestinal digestion is more than thegastric digestion. Hence, it is concluded that Vanga Bhasma can be useful nanomedicine.© 2017 Transdisciplinary University, Bangalore and World Ayurveda Foundation. Publishing Services byElsevier B.V. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).

Study on physical properties of Ayurvedic nanocrystalline Tamra Bhasma by employing modern scientific tools

Background: Tamra Bhasma is derived from metallic copper that is recommended for different ailmentsof liver and spleen, dropsy, abdominal pain, heart disease, colitis, tumors, anemia, loss of appetite,tuberculosis, as well as eye problems.Objectives: The knowledge of crystallite size and active ingredients in Bhasma materials is limitedrestricting its use as nanomedicine in the modern era. Also, the 2015 Nobel prize in medicine hasmotivated many researchers towards traditional medicines. Therefore, the different chemical andphysical properties of prepared Tamra Bhasma has been studied by modern experimental tools (XRD,VSM, SEM, FTIR and PL spectrometer) and the preliminary testing of Tamra Bhasma nanoparticles wasexamined on bacteria.Materials and methods: Bhasma is prepared by metals and minerals using three step procedures e.g.Shodhana, Bhavana and Marana. In the present work, for the preparation of Tamra Bhasma, pulverizedcopper wire was used and prepared by the principle of Puta (incineration) in an Electrical Muffle Furnace(EMF).Results: X-ray diffraction analysis and scanning electron microscopy results revealed that the crystallitesize of Bhasma powder was less than 100 nm and nanocrystallites of aglomerated size in micrometer.Magnetometer measurement supports its medicinal value. Photoluminescence (PL) properties of nanocrystalline Bhasma powder was investigated in UV-NIR region and shows luminescence in visible region.The antimicrobial study of Tamra Bhasma shows effectiveness on bacteria and, may be useful to controlthe bacterial infection disease.Conclusion: Scientific data obtained using modern scientific tools and evidence would support in utilizing the ancient Indian wisdom of Ayurveda for the development of newer drugs as a modern nanomedicine and in other possible technological applications.© 2017 Transdisciplinary University, Bangalore and World Ayurveda Foundation. Publishing Services byElsevier B.V. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).

Methodological Insights In The Preparation Of Naga Bhasma

In the present research paper an attempt has been made to introduce standard operating procedure (SOP) for preparation of Naga Bhasma described in Ayurvedic formulary of India (AFI) using traditional Puta method. A total 60 Putas were given, out which first 50 Puta were Ardha gajaputa, followed by last 10 Puta as Gajaputa. In this method Manahshila and Kanji were taken as media. Arddha Gaja Puta (burnt with 4 kg Cow dung cake) was given for first 50 puta and the last ten Putas was given Gajaputa (burnt with 8 kg cow dung cake). The percentage increase in the Naga bhasma prepared after 60 Puta was 12%. Upto 50 Puta the increase in weight of Naga was 208%, while in last 10 Putas the percentage of decrease in weight was 63.66%. The average percentage purity of Naga decreased from 93.18% to 81.44% after Shodhana. The percentage of (Pb) Lead in Naga Bhasma 50 Puta and 60 Puta were 14.118% and 14.872 % respectively. Chemically Naga Bhasma was found in the form of PbS form.

Pharmaceutical Preparation Of Lauha Bhasma

In the present research paper, the pharmaceutical preparation of Lauha bhasma (calcined iron) is being presented. The various procedures adopted in the preparation of Lauha bhasma includes Samanya Shodhana (common purification process for iron) and Vishesha Shodhana (specific purification process for iron), Lauha marana by Bhanupaka (Heating of iron under sunrays) Sthalipaka (Heating of iron in a vessel) and Puta paka (Incineration of iron). Lauha was finally subjected to the process of Amriikaran (nectarization). The process of Puta paka was undergone in electric muffle furnace (EMF) and was repeated for sixty times each under identical conditions, at the temperature of 7500 C till 35th Puta and thereafter at 7000 C till the end of the Marana process i.e. 60 Puta. During the processing of iron, Triphala kwatha (decoction of three myrobalan) has been used as liquid media for Vishesha Shodhana, Bhanupaka, Sthalipaka and Puta paka. The study showed an increase in weight of Lauha after Bhanupaka and Stahlipaka i.e.,, 216% and 105.3%, respectively. It may be due to addition of solid content of Triphala kwatha. After Puta paka, 63%weight gain was observed in final product which may be attributed to addition of ash from Triphala kwatha. The Bhasma obtained fulfils all criteria and was found safe for oral administration.

A Comparative Clinical Study On Application Of Yashada Bhasma Lepa And Jatyadi Ghrita In The Management Of Dushta Vrana W.s.r. Diabetic Ulcer

Introduction: Wounds and their management are fundamental to the practice of surgery. In surgery of trauma, wound is frequently a primary pathology. In elective surgery, it is through the wound that access is obtained to deal with the underlying pathology. In both situations surgeon’s task is to minimize the adverse effects of wound, remove or repair damaged structures and harness the process of wound healing to restore function. Objectives: The study is aimed to know the comparative efficacy of Yashada Bhasma Lepa and Jatyadi Ghrita in the management of Dushta Vrana. Method: Clinically diagnosed 30 patients of Dushta Vrana were randomly divided into two groups, each group consisting of 15 Patients. First (A group) is treated by Yashada Bhasma Lepa and second (B group) is treated by Jatyadi Ghrita for 21 days. Result: On the basis of assessment criteria and on the overall result of treatment the patients of Yashada Bhasma Lepa group showed better relief when compared to Jatyadi Ghrita. Interpretation: Yashada Bhasma Lepa having the properties of Tikta, Kashaya, Katu, Rasa predominance thus had action of Kapha Pitta Shamana, Netra Roga, Pandu, Bahumootra Roga, Kasa, Swasa, Rajayakshma, Ratrisweda, Vranasrava Avarodaka,Prameha, Sankochakara.etc. Thus this help for Shodhanaand Ropana. Conclusion: Yashada Bhasma Lepa has provided better relief in maximum signs and symptoms of the patients of Dushta Vrana, in comparison to Jatyadi Ghrita. Its overall effects were also better in comparison to Yashada Bhasma Lepawith Jatyadi Ghrita and dressing reduces the infection.

A review on an Ayurvedic Approach for Cancer Treatment developed by Vaidya Balendu Prakash.

Though many cancer alternative therapies are popular in India, however, few have been accepted by the convention oncology forum to be effective. The metal based Ayurvedic protocol developed by Vaidya Chandra Prakash and later popularised by his son Vaidya Balendu Prakash is one of such cancer alternative therapy. The first successful treatment of a Hodgkin’s Lymphoma patient with bone metastasis was reported in 1960 with an Ayurvedic preparation called Valipani developed by Vaidya Chandra Prakash. Valipani contained processed mercury, sulphur, iron, harar (Terminalia Chebula) along with bhilava (Semecarpus anacardium), amla (Emblica officinalis), ginger and honey, which was primarily given to the patient to strengthen the bone marrow function. However, the results could not be repeated with the new batch of Valipani, may be because of some problems associated with the medicine preparation. Similar situation was also encountered with another metal based preparation called Amar. In 1980s a new metal based formulation called Navjeevan was prepared and it was found to be effective in the treatment of Myeloma and Lymphoma. In 1984 Vaidya Chandra Prakash passed away, it was then Vaidya Balendu Prakash who convinced the medical fraternity to accept his claims. Later, he patented his formulation and also present 13 successfully treated cancer patients for the ‘Best Case Series’ presentation in National Cancer Institute, USA. The evolution of this alternative metal based Ayurvedic therapy for cancer treatment is discussed.

Anti-diabetic activity and safety assessment of Ayurvedic medicine, Jasada bhasma (zinc ash) in rats.

Jasada bhasma (zinc ash) is an extensively used Ayurvedic medicine for treating diabetes mellitus. The present communication presents yet unavailable comprehensive scientific data on its physico-chemical nature vis-à-vis anti-diabetic activity and toxicity profile.Zinc ash prepared by traditional method was found to consist of 200-500 nm sized particles, predominantly zinc oxide with hexagonal wurtzite crystal structure.The effective dose range of zinc ash in oral glucose tolerance tests performed using normoglycemic Wistar rats was found to be 3-30 mg/kg. Subsequently anti-diabetic activity was assessed in streptozotocin induced type 1 and type 2 diabetic rats. Four weeks treatment with zinc ash (1, 3, 10 mg/kg) resulted in improved glucose tolerance (16-19%), lowered blood glucose levels (20-33%) and reduced serum insulin levels (27-32%). Systemic absorption was assessed by single dose pharmacokinetic study where serum zinc levels were found to be elevated (3.5 folds) after oral administration of zinc ash. Acute and sub-acute toxicity tests demonstrated safety of zinc ash up to 300 mg/kg doseie. 100 times the efficacy dose in rats.These findings, the first of their kind, provide concrete scientific evidence that justifies usage of zinc ash in diabetes treatment.

Critical review on the pharmaceutical vistas of Lauha Kalpas (Iron formulations).

Iron is one among the major metals present in the earth’s crust and is essential for sound sustenance of human body. Its defi ciency leads to various health ailments. Contemporary medicine advises iron supplements in iron defi ciency anemia. Ayurvedic classics also quote signifi cant information about administration of iron. Lauha Kalpas are the unique compound herbo-mineral formulations where iron (Lauha) is used as a major ingredient. Relevant literature (Bhaishajya Ratnavali, Charaka Samhita, Rasendra Sara Samgraha etc.) reviewed to gather information about Lauha Kalpas. Critical analysis of these Lauha Kalpas reveals that ancient seers administered iron in a better acceptable form. Unlike popular understanding these are not only Khalviya preparations; but Churna (powders), Avaleha (confectionaries), Rasakriya (solidifi ed decoctions), and Putapaka (incinerated) form of preparations are also found. Apart from solid dosage forms, semisolid dosage forms mentioned in classics are very much useful. Unfortunately most of the formulations are not found in the market. Hence Pharmaceutical fi rms may bring these unique dosage forms in to the market to supply the healthcare needs of the community. It is interesting that iron preparations are used in Ayurveda in different medical conditions apart from anemia (Pandu). This leaves a scope for further researches on different dosage forms of iron and their indications.

Evaluation of the effect of conventionally prepared swarna makshika bhasma on different bio-chemical parameters in experimental animals.

Swarna makshika (chalcopyrite) bhasma (SMB) has been used for different therapeutic purposes since long in Ayurveda. The present study is conducted to evaluate the effect of conventionally prepared SMB on different bio-chemical parameters in experimental animals, for providing scientific data base for its logical use in clinical practice. The genuine SMB was prepared by following classical techniques of shodhana and marana most commonly used by different Ayurvedic drug manufacturers. Shodhana was done by roasting raw swarna makshika with lemon juice for three days and marana was performed by 11 putas. The experimental animals (rats) were divided into two groups. SMB mixed with diluted honey was administered orally in therapeutic dose to Group SMB and diluted honey only was administered to vehicle control Group, for 30 days. The blood samples were collected twice, after 15 days and after 30 days of drug administration and different biochemical investigations were done. Biochemical parameters were chosen based on references from Ayurvedic classics and contemporary medicine. It was observed that Hb% was found significantly increased and LDL and VLDL were found significantly decreased in Group SMB when compared with vehicle control group. This experimental data will help the clinician for the logical use of SMB in different disease conditions with findings like low Hb% and high LDL, VLDL levels.

Evaluation of market samples of 'Yashada bhasma' using 'Namburi Phased Spot Test'.

Yashada bhasma (Calx of Yashada i.e. Zinc) which has its main indication in Prameha (Diabetes) and Netra vikaras (Eye disorders) was prepared according to the prescription in the Ayurvedic classics and subjected to various bhasma parikshas, including the Namburi Phased Spot Test (NPST), one of the qualitative tests described for various Ayurvedic preparations. NPST helps differentiate between, and thus identify, various bhasmas. It depends upon the pattern of the spot, which develops after a specific chemical reaction. Three market samples of Yashada bhasma, which were said to be Parada marita (incinerated using Mercury), were also subjected to the above tests and results compared. The various bhasmas exhibited marked differences in colour, and though NPST yielded desired results for all the samples, there were differences in their spot patterns and colour. The bhasma prepared in our department produced the most accurate results.