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  2. Volume 2 | Issue 2 [April to June]
  3. STANDARDIZATION OF BHASMA: CLASSICAL AND MODERN ANALYTICAL APPROACHES
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Dr. Jalpa Gandhi

STANDARDIZATION OF BHASMA: CLASSICAL AND MODERN ANALYTICAL APPROACHES

Introduction: Bhasma, the herbo-mineral preparations of Ayurveda, represent a unique category of medicines prepared through elaborate procedures of Shodhana (purification) and Marana (incineration). These formulations are used in the management of chronic and refractory diseases. However, their safety and efficacy depend heavily on proper preparation and standardization. Classical Ayurvedic texts describe traditional quality control tests, while modern science provides analytical tools to validate these parameters. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted using Ayurvedic classics (Rasa Ratna Samuccaya, Rasatarangini, Ayurveda Prakasha) and electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar). Search terms included “Bhasma standardization,” “Ayurvedic quality control,” “analytical validation of Bhasma,” and “toxicology of Bhasma.” Both classical quality assessment methods and modern analytical techniques were included, while anecdotal reports or studies lacking methodology were excluded. Results: Classical parameters of Bhasma standardization include Rekhapurnatva (fineness), Varitaratva (floating test), Nischandratva (absence of metallic luster), and Apunarbhava (irreversibility to metal). Modern analytical tools such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX), inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirm structural, morphological, and compositional changes. Studies on Lauha Bhasma, Swarna Bhasma, and Abhraka Bhasma show that classical and modern parameters are complementary, with particle size reduction to nano-range contributing to bioavailability and reduced toxicity. Discussion: Integration of classical tests with modern analytical protocols ensures holistic standardization. While traditional methods confirm therapeutic suitability, modern tools provide reproducible data for regulatory acceptance. However, challenges remain in standardizing procedures across regions and establishing global pharmacopeial standards.Conclusion: Standardization of Bhasma requires a combined framework of Ayurvedic principles and modern analytical science. Such an integrative approach will ensure safety, efficacy, and wider acceptance of Bhasma formulations in global healthcare.

KEYWORDS: Analytical validation, Ayurveda, Bhasma, Rasashastra, Standardization