DOI: 10.4103/ayuhom.ayuhom_54_24 ISSN: 2349-2422
Pharmaceutico-analytical Assessment of Loha Bhasma: A Research Study
Vijay Kumar Jatoliya, Sushil Kumar Jangid, Yogeshwari Ranawat, Disha Kirtibhai Chhatbar, Govind Sahay Shukla, Rajaram Agarwal
A
BSTRACT
Introduction:
Loha Bhasma
, a classical Ayurvedic herbo-mineral formulation, is extensively used in managing anemia, chronic debility, and metabolic disorders. The traditional method of
Bhasma
preparation ensures detoxification of metals, minimizes toxicity, and enhances therapeutic efficacy. The present study aimed to prepare
Loha Bhasma
as per
Rasamrita
guidelines and to evaluate pharmaceutical changes at each stage.
Materials and Methods:
Ashuddha loha churna
has been procured from the local market.
Loha Churna
was subjected to
Samanya Shodhana
using various media, followed by
Vishesha Shodhana
with
Triphala Kwatha
and
Gomutra
. The processed
Loha
then underwent
Bhanupaka
and
Sthalipaka
, followed by 15 cycles of incineration (
Puta
). At each step, observations on weight, color, and texture were recorded along with classical
Bhasma Siddhi Lakshanas
such as
Varitara
,
Rekhapurnata
, and
Nischandratva
. Analytical evaluation included organoleptic and physicochemical tests, in accordance with the
Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India
.
Results:
The process showed progressive transformation of
Loha
.
Shodhana
caused visible changes, including weight reduction, indicating removal of impurities. Successive
Puta
cycles facilitated the breakdown of metallic structure, evident through loss of luster and reduction in particle size. The final
Bhasma
attained
Pakwajambuphala Varna
(ripe jambul fruit color), fine texture, and satisfied classical tests such as lightness, smoothness, and absence of metallic shine. Analytical parameters confirmed compliance with pharmacopoeial standards.
Conclusion:
Sequential pharmaceutical processing ensures detoxification, transformation, and standardization of
Loha Bhasma
. The findings emphasize the significance of
Shodhana
and
Marana
procedures in achieving a pharmaceutically stable and therapeutically effective product.