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

Abstract

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.

Physicochemical characterization of Ayurvedic bhasma (Swarna makshika bhasma): An approach to standardization

“…This was done using standard procedures and included two steps, namely Shodhana and marana of Swarna makshika . [ 7 ] The Swarna makshika was procured from the pharmacy (I.M.S., BHU) and lemon juice (sufficient quantity) was obtained from the market…”

“…; and kupipakwa procedures,[ 4 ] etc. During marana , bhavana with lemon juice, kulottha decoction, eranda taila, snuhi ksheera ,[ 5 ] etc., are given with addition of shuddha gandhaka and shuddha hingula,[ 6 ] etc., as associated materials.…”

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

“…Bhasmas are very fine ayurvedic medicinal powders prepared from minerals, metals, poisonous materials and gems combining with various herbs in treatments. The conversion of metals and minerals into acceptable form for oral administration is done by a series of pharmaceutical processes; shodhana , bhavana and marana and preparation procedures of these medicines are time-consuming and complicated [1] , [2] .…”