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Introduction: Marana, or incineration, is a critical pharmaceutical procedure in Rasa Shastra (the Ayurvedic branch dealing with metals and minerals). It involves repeated calcination and processing of purified substances to transform them into fine, stable, and bioassimilable forms known as Bhasma. The significance of Marana lies in reducing toxicity, enhancing therapeutic activity, and ensuring long-term stability of formulations. Methods: This review was conducted through a systematic search of Ayurvedic classical texts (Rasatarangini, Rasa Ratna Samuccaya, Ayurveda Prakasha, and Charaka Samhita), along with modern research databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Search terms included “Marana,” “Bhasma preparation,” “Ayurveda metallurgy,” “incineration Ayurveda,” and “Ayurvedic pharmaceutics.” Inclusion criteria were studies and texts detailing Marana techniques, pharmaceutical transformations, and clinical applications, while anecdotal or non-authentic sources were excluded. Results: Traditional Marana procedures involve repeated heating, quenching, and grinding cycles with herbal juices, ensuring complete transformation of metals and minerals. Techniques such as Puta (calcination in closed containers with cow dung cakes) or modern electrical furnaces yield micro- and nano-sized particles with altered physicochemical properties. Analytical methods including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirm particle size reduction, phase transformation, and enhanced stability. Preclinical and clinical studies demonstrate that Bhasmas prepared through Marana exhibit improved bioavailability and reduced toxicity compared to raw substances. Discussion: Marana reflects a convergence of traditional pharmaceutical wisdom and modern material science. While its therapeutic relevance is supported by growing evidence, gaps remain in standardization, toxicological profiling, and global acceptance. Conclusion: Marana is not merely a ritualistic practice but a scientifically valid pharmaceutical technique that transforms toxic raw substances into safe, effective, and stable medicines. Integrating classical insights with modern analytical validation will strengthen its role in global integrative medicine.

KEYWORDS: Ayurveda, Bhasma, Incineration, Marana, Rasa Shastra