Bhasma In Ayurveda: A Comprehensive Review of Traditional Preparation and Modern Scientific Validation

Bhasma represents a unique class of Herbo-mineral formulations described in Ayurvedic pharmaceutics und er the discipline of Rasa-shastra. These preparations involve the transformation of metals, minerals, and marine substances into therapeutically active ash-like powders through complex pharmaceutical processes including Shodhana (purification), Bhavana (trituration), and Marana (calcination). Classical Ayurvedic texts describe Bhasma as bio-assimilable, highly potent, and stable medicinal preparations. In recent decades, modern scientific investigations have revealed that many Bhasma consist of nano-size or micro-sized particles of metal oxides or sulfides, contributing to enhanced biological activity. Advanced analytical techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX), X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) have been applied to characterize their physicochemical properties and elemental composition. The present review summarizes traditional concepts of Bhasma preparation, Rasa-shastra principles, quality control parameters, physicochemical characterization, nanoparticle nature, therapeutic applications, toxicity studies, and modern standardization approaches. Integration of traditional Ayurvedic knowledge with modern scientific validation can contribute to improved quality assurance and global acceptance of Bhasma-based medicines.