Pharmaceutical processing and analytical study of trivanga bhasma
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Pharmaceutical processing and analytical study of trivanga bhasma
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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*Smitha Jain
P. G. Scholar, Dept. of Rasashastra, JSS Ayurveda Medical College, Mysore, Karnataka, India.
Ashok D Satpute
HOD, Dept. of Rasashastra, JSS Ayurveda Medical College, Mysore, Karnataka, India.
Dasari Srilakshmi
Ayurvedic physician & Physiotherapist, S.G.S Hospital, Sri Ganapathi Sachchidananda Ashram, Mysore, Karnataka, India.
T.V. Shalini
Lecturer, Dept. of Rasashastra, Sushrutha Ayurveda Medical College, Bangalore, Karnataka, India.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Pharmaceutical processing and analytical study of trivanga bhasma
Year: 2014
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Ayurveda, often referred to as the science of holistic living and natural healing, incorporates a branch known as Rasashastra, which focuses on the transformation of metals and minerals into potent medicinal formulations. Among the various preparations in Rasashastra, Trivanga Bhasma, composed of tin (Vanga), lead (Naga), and zinc (Yashada), is notable for its therapeutic applications in various conditions such as diabetes (Prameha), respiratory issues (Kasa and Shwasa), and blood disorders (Raktapitta). The preparation of Trivanga Bhasma involves meticulous processes to ensure the safety and efficacy of the final product, alongside analytical assessments to verify its quality.
Processes in Metal Purification and Preparation
Shodhana and Jarana
The preparation of Trivanga Bhasma begins with two crucial processes: Shodhana and Jarana. Shodhana refers to purification, ensuring that the metals are free from toxicity, while Jarana denotes the roasting method necessary to prepare the metals for subsequent transformation into Bhasma. In this study, a systematic approach was employed where Vanga, Naga, and Yashada were subjected to Samanya and Vishesha Shodhana processes using various liquids such as Kanji, Takra, and Gomutra. This was followed by Jarana, where the metals were heated in sequence to achieve a molten state, enhancing their interaction with the added Apamargapanchanga powder, which is crucial for creating a fine powder that defines the Bhasma.
Analytical Methods and Findings
Quality Assessment of Trivanga Bhasma
Following the meticulous preparation processes, the final Trivanga Bhasma was subjected to various analytical studies, which included classical Bhasmaparikshas and modern techniques such as ICP-AES. The results indicated significant content of lead (24.66%), tin (30.48%), and zinc (20.48%). Additionally, tests for ash value, acid-insoluble ash, and loss on drying were performed, affirming the quality of the Bhasma. Such comprehensive analytical evaluations are indispensable for validating the therapeutic potential and safety of Ayurvedic formulations, reflecting the blend of ancient wisdom and modern scientific inquiry in Rasashastra.
Conclusion
This study illustrates the intricate and skilled methods involved in the preparation of Trivanga Bhasma, highlighting the essential processes of Shodhana, Jarana, and Marana. The use of classical references alongside modern analytical techniques demonstrates the importance of maintaining high-quality standards for Ayurvedic formulations. The findings underscore the efficacy of Trivanga Bhasma in therapeutic applications, paving the way for further research into the safety and effectiveness of metal-based Ayurvedic medicines. This holistic approach not only preserves traditional practices but also enhances their credibility in contemporary medicine.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Trivanga Bhasma and its significance in Ayurveda?
Trivanga Bhasma is a combination of three metals: Vanga, Naga, and Yashada. It is used in Ayurveda for its therapeutic properties in conditions like Prameha and Madhumeha, showcasing the application of ancient metallurgical practices in holistic medicine.
What processes are involved in the preparation of Trivanga Bhasma?
The preparation involves several steps: Samanya Shodhana for purification, Vishesha Shodhana for specific treatments, Jarana for roasting or calcination, and Marana for final conversion into a fine ash-like form. Each step ensures the safety and efficacy of the final product.
What analytical studies were conducted on Trivanga Bhasma?
Analytical studies revealed the composition of Trivanga Bhasma, showing 24.66% Lead, 30.48% Tin, and 20.48% Zinc. Various conventional methods, including ash value and loss on drying, were used to evaluate the quality and formulation of the Bhasma.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Pharmaceutical processing and analytical study of trivanga bhasma”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Bhasma (Bhasman):
Bhasma refers to the fine ash obtained from the incineration of metals and minerals. In the context of the document, Bhasmas are potent Ayurvedic formulations known for their low doses, quick effects, long shelf life, and effectiveness in treating various ailments.
2) Shodhana (Sodhana):
Shodhana is the purification process in Rasashastra used to detoxify metals and minerals before they are converted into Bhasma. It involves methods like Dhalana (melting and immediate cooling in liquid media) to remove impurities and enhance medicinal qualities.
3) Puta:
Puta refers to the heating process used in the preparation of Bhasma. In this document, Laghuputa specifically is a regulated heat treatment technique to convert metals into fine ash. It involves the use of heat flows and repeated incineration cycles to achieve the desired medicinal properties.
4) Yashada (Yasada):
Yashada, or zinc, is one of the three metals used in the preparation of Trivanga Bhasma. It undergoes processes like Shodhana (purification), Jarana (roasting), and Marana (incineration) in the formulation of this Ayurvedic medicine.
5) Vanga (Vamga):
Vanga, or tin, is another of the three metals used in Trivanga Bhasma. This metal is subjected to the processes of Shodhana, Jarana, and Marana to produce a potent Bhasma that is applied in various therapeutic conditions according to Ayurvedic practices.
6) Naga (Nag):
Naga, or lead, is the third metal used in making Trivanga Bhasma. It is purified, roasted, and incinerated in combination with Vanga and Yashada to produce a therapeutic ash used in treating conditions like diabetes (Prameha) and respiratory disorders.
7) Rasashastra (Rasa-shastra, Rasasastra):
Rasashastra is an Ayurvedic branch that deals with the pharmaceutical preparation of metals and minerals. It encompasses techniques like Shodhana, Jarana, and Marana, aiming to produce drugs with high efficacy and safety. The study examines these processes in the context of treating ailments.
8) Jarana:
Jarana is the process of roasting metals with other herbs or substances in Rasashastra to remove impurities and convert them into a powdered form. This step ensures the fine quality and medicinal attributes of the final Bhasma product.
9) Samanya:
Samanya refers to the general methods applied in Ayurvedic pharmaceutical processes. In the study, it involves the preliminary purification (Shodhana) of metals using multiple liquid media to prepare them for further processing steps such as Jarana and Marana.
10) Drug:
In the context of the study, 'drug' refers to Ayurvedic formulations like Trivanga Bhasma, which are prepared using traditional metallic and mineral processes. These drugs are known for their small required doses, quick action, and effectiveness in treating diseases.
11) Vishesha (Visesa):
Vishesha refers to specific or special procedures applied in Ayurvedic pharmaceutical preparations. In the study, Vishesha Shodhana denotes a particular purification process using a distinct medium called Churnodaka applied to metals to ensure their therapeutic efficacy.
12) Visheshashodhana (Visesasodhana, Vishesha-shodhana):
Vishesha-shodhana is the specific, detailed purification process in Rasashastra involving repetitive heating and cooling in Churnodaka (alkaline water). It's applied to metals to remove deeper impurities, making them more brittle and amenable for conversion into Bhasma.
13) India:
India is the country where the JSS Ayurveda Medical College, the study of Trivanga Bhasma preparation, and other Ayurveda practices are prevalent. Situated in Mysore, Karnataka, it is a hub for Ayurvedic education and research.
14) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine centered on holistic living and natural healing. The study focuses on Rasashastra, a branch of Ayurveda that involves the preparation and use of metallic and mineral-based medicines for various treatments.
15) Marana:
Marana is the process of incinerating metals and minerals in Sharava Samputa (closed clay pots) under specific heat conditions to convert them into Bhasma. This is part of the Trivanga Bhasma preparation, ensuring the final product is safe and potent for medicinal use.
16) Dhalana:
Dhalana describes the method of heating metals until molten and then pouring them into liquid media for purification. This technique is used in the Samanya Shodhana and Vishesha Shodhana processes to remove impurities and prepare metals like Vanga, Naga, and Yashada for Bhasma production.
17) Mineral:
Minerals in the context of this study refer to substances like zinc, tin, and lead, used in preparing Trivanga Bhasma. These undergo Shodhana, Jarana, and Marana processes to turn them into therapeutically potent Bhasma suitable for treating various ailments in Ayurvedic medicine.
18) Mysore:
Mysore is a city in Karnataka, India, where the JSS Ayurveda Medical College is located. This institution conducted the pharmaceutical processing and analytical study of Trivanga Bhasma detailed in the document.
19) Karnataka:
Karnataka is a state in India where Mysore is located. It houses the JSS Ayurveda Medical College, the site of the pharmaceutical and analytical study of Trivanga Bhasma, contributing significantly to Ayurvedic research and education.
20) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa, in the context of Rasashastra, signifies the essence or transformative qualities of metals and minerals used medicinally. It is a fundamental concept in the preparation of Rasaushadhis (metallic and mineral-based medicines) including various Bhasmas.
21) Bhavana (Bha-vana):
Bhavana is a process where purified metals are triturated with herbal juices or decoctions. In this study, Bhavana with Kumari Swarasa and Parpata Kwatha is applied to Jarita Trivanga during Marana to enhance the Bhasma's therapeutic properties.
22) Powder:
Powder refers to the final form of metals like Vanga, Naga, and Yashada after Jarana and Marana processes. This powdered Bhasma is used in Ayurvedic medicine due to its enhanced effectiveness and reduced toxicity.
23) Tilataila (Tila-taila):
Tila-taila, or sesame oil, is one of the liquid media used in the Shodhana process. It helps in detoxifying metals like Vanga and Yashada during general purification, preparing them for further processes in Bhasma preparation.
24) Varitara:
Varitara is a classical test in Rasashastra to check the fineness of Bhasma. It involves sprinkling the Bhasma on water; if it floats, it signifies its lightness and proper formation. The Trivanga Bhasma preparation in the study passes this test.
25) Medicine:
Medicine refers to the formulations derived from ancient Ayurveda, such as Trivanga Bhasma, therapeutic metallic ashes used to treat various conditions mentioned in the study. Their preparation involves thorough processes to ensure safety and efficacy.
26) Gomutra (Go-mutra):
Gomutra, or cow urine, is one of the media used in the Shodhana process. It has alkaline properties and helps in purifying metals like Vanga, Naga, and Yashada. It is collected fresh and used in the purification process.
27) Taila:
Taila, or oil, specifically Tila (sesame) oil, is used as a medium in the Shodhana process of metals. It aids in removing fat-soluble impurities, thus purifying the metals which are later used in preparing Bhasma.
28) Kanji (Kamji):
Kanji refers to fermented rice water used as an acidic medium for the Samanya Shodhana process. It aids in the purification and detoxification of metals like Vanga by dissolving water-soluble impurities.
29) Takra:
Takra, or buttermilk, is another medium for Samanya Shodhana. It has a slightly acidic nature and is employed in the purification of metals like Vanga and Yashada, helping in the removal of water-soluble impurities and improving therapeutic qualities.
30) Tila:
Tila, or sesame, primarily referenced here in its oil form (Tila Taila), is utilized in the purification process of metals. This step is crucial in Rasashastra for detoxifying and preparing metals for further conversion into therapeutic Bhasma.
31) Purification:
Purification refers to the Shodhana process, essential in Ayurveda for detoxifying metals and minerals. The study details Samanya and Vishesha Shodhana for Vanga, Naga, and Yashada to ensure the final Bhasma is safe and effective for medicinal use.
32) Putiloha (Puti-loha):
Putiloha refers to metals like lead (Naga), tin (Vanga), and zinc (Yashada) used in Ayurvedic formulations. These metals undergo a series of purification, roasting, and incineration processes in the preparation of medicinal Bhasmas like Trivanga Bhasma.
33) Yantra (Yamtra):
Yantra refers to traditional equipment used in Ayurvedic pharmaceutical processes. In this study, Pitara Yantra for Shodhana and Khalva Yantra for Bhavana are employed to process metals into medicinal Bhasma.
34) Sharavasamputa (Sharava-samputa, Saravasamputa):
Sharavasamputa refers to a method where the substance is placed between two Sharavas (earthen plates) and sealed for incineration (Puta). This technique ensures uniform heating and is essential in the Marana process for converting metals into Bhasma.
35) Apunarbhava (Apunar-bhava):
Apunarbhava is a classical test to confirm that Bhasma cannot revert to its original metallic state, indicating complete incineration. After 17 Puta, the Trivanga Bhasma in the study passes this test, proving its proper transformation from metal to ash.
36) Sutrasthana (Sutra-sthana):
Sutrasthana refers to foundational texts in Ayurveda that provide guidelines for medical practices, including pharmaceutical methods. In the study, references are made to Sushrutha Sutrasthana, which guides the preparation and processing of Bhasma.
37) Kulattha:
Kulattha, or horse gram, used in its decoction form (Kulattha Kwatha) for the Shodhana process, serves as a medium to purify metals in Ayurvedic medicine. Its use helps in reducing impurities and preparing metals like Vanga for medicinal use.
38) Lakshana (Laksana):
Lakshana denotes characteristics or indicators. In the context of Bhasma preparation, Bhasma Siddhi Lakshanas are signs that validate the proper formation and readiness of Bhasma for therapeutic application, including fineness and lightness tests.
39) Niruttha (Nir-uttha):
Niruttha is a classical test to ensure that Bhasma is stable and cannot revert to its original metal form even under high temperatures. The Trivanga Bhasma in the study passes this test, confirming its final, stable medicinal state.
40) Parpata:
Parpata is a medicinal herb, whose decoction (Parpata Kwatha) is used in the Bhavana process during the preparation of Trivanga Bhasma. It assists in achieving the desired consistency and enhancing the therapeutic properties of the Bhasma.
41) Disease:
The study mentions several diseases like Prameha (diabetes) and Kasa (cough) that Trivanga Bhasma can treat. These ailments highlight the therapeutic applications of Bhasmas within the holistic framework of Ayurvedic medicine.
42) Kumari:
Kumari, or Aloe vera, used in its juice form (Kumari Swarasa), is employed in the Bhavana process of Trivanga Bhasma. It aids in trituration and enhances the efficacy of the final medicinal product through its herbal properties.
43) Loha:
Loha means metal in Sanskrit. Specifically, Putilohas (troublesome metals like lead, tin, and zinc) undergo various Rasashastra processes including Shodhana, Jarana, and Marana to transform into therapeutic Bhasma used in Ayurveda.
44) New Delhi:
New Delhi is referenced in acknowledging contributors from Chaudhary Brahm Prakash Ayurvedic Charak Sansthan, Delhi, showcasing collaboration in the field of Ayurvedic research for the preparation and analysis of Trivanga Bhasma.
45) Cow dung:
Cow dung cakes are used as fuel in the Puta process for incinerating metals to produce Bhasma. It provides the necessary consistent heat required for the Marana process, ensuring the metals are properly converted into therapeutic ash.
46) Khalvayantra (Khalva-yantra):
Khalva-yantra is a traditional Ayurvedic grinding tool used for Bhavana. In this study, it is employed to triturate metals with herbal extracts, ensuring a fine mixture that enhances the quality and effectiveness of the final Bhasma.
47) Agadatantra (Agada-tantra, Agadatamtra):
Agada-tantra refers to the branch of Ayurveda that deals with toxicology. Mentioned as one of the study contributors, it underscores the importance of detoxifying metals through the Shodhana process to create safe and effective Bhasma.
48) Rasaushadhi (Rasa-aushadhi, Rasausadhi):
Rasaushadhi refers to medicinal formulations containing processed metals and minerals. These are part of the Rasashastra branch of Ayurveda and include Bhasmas like Trivanga Bhasma, which are known for their potent therapeutic properties.
49) Raktapitta (Rakta-pitta):
Raktapitta is a condition described in Ayurveda involving bleeding disorders. The study lists it among the ailments that Trivanga Bhasma can treat, demonstrating the Bhasma's broad therapeutic applications.
50) Discussion:
The discussion section in the document analyzes results, comparing the observed outcomes with classical texts. It explains the efficacy, processes like Shodhana and Marana, chemical conversions, and adherence to Ayurvedic principles in producing effective Trivanga Bhasma.
51) Knowledge:
Knowledge refers to the collective understanding of Ayurvedic practices, including pharmaceutical methods of preparing Bhasma. The study contributes to this knowledge by documenting detailed procedures, observations, and analytical results of Trivanga Bhasma.
52) Substance:
Substances in the study are the raw materials like Vanga, Naga, and Yashada, and associated herbs used in the preparation of Bhasma. These substances undergo meticulous purification and processing to convert them into effective medicinal formulas.
53) Ganapati (Gana-pati, Ganapathi):
Ganapathi Sachchidananda Ashram in Mysore is acknowledged for housing one of the contributors. This highlights the integration of Ayurvedic research within traditional and modern institutions for holistic health treatments.
54) Toxicity:
Toxicity refers to the harmful effects of unpurified metals. The Shodhana process in Rasashastra mitigates this toxicity, transforming metals like Vanga, Naga, and Yashada into safe, therapeutic Bhasma for medicinal use.
55) Prameha:
Prameha refers to urinary disorders including diabetes mellitus. Trivanga Bhasma, as described in the study, is traditionally used in Ayurveda for managing and treating conditions like Prameha through its potent therapeutic properties.
56) Sharava (Sarava):
Sharava is an earthen vessel used in the Sharavasamputa technique during the Marana process. It encloses metals for uniform heating and incineration, crucial for creating fine quality Bhasmas like Trivanga Bhasma.
57) Kushala (Kusala):
Kushala refers to the skillfulness required in Rasashastra practices. The study stresses the need for repeated practice and careful observation to master pharmaceutical processes, ensuring the high quality and efficacy of Ayurvedic medicines like Trivanga Bhasma.
58) Tantra (Tamtra, Tantrism):
Tantra in Ayurveda signifies specialized branches or techniques. The study involves Agada-tantra for detoxification practices and Rasashastra for metal processing, illustrating the comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach in Ayurvedic medicine.
59) Siddhi:
Siddhi (success or perfection) in this context refers to Bhasma Siddhi Lakshanas, the signs that indicate successful preparation of Bhasma. Achieving Siddhi confirms that the Bhasma fulfills all required properties for therapeutic use.
60) Dravya:
Dravya means substance or material used in Ayurvedic preparations. The study mentions various Dravyas like Vanga, Naga, and Yashada, which undergo rigorous processing to be converted into effective therapeutic Bhasma.
61) Kshara (Ksara):
Kshara refers to an alkaline substance or solution used in purification processes. In the study, it's applied to remove residual impurities during the Jarana process, ensuring the metals are properly cleansed before conversion into Bhasma.
62) Vaidya:
Vaidya refers to a practitioner of Ayurveda. The study emphasizes the expertise of the Rasa Vaidya (Ayurvedic physician specialized in Rasashastra) in preparing high-quality Bhasma through careful and skillful pharmaceutical practices.
63) Kshaya (Ksaya):
Kshaya represents conditions of depletion or wasting disorders. Trivanga Bhasma is indicated for treating various conditions, including Kshaya, demonstrating its broad applicability in restoring health as per Ayurvedic principles.
64) Bombay:
Bombay (now Mumbai) is mentioned as the location of IIT Bombay, where some analytical tests on Trivanga Bhasma were conducted. This underscores the collaboration between traditional Ayurvedic methods and modern scientific analysis.
65) Dasari:
Dasari Srilakshmi is one of the authors of the study, contributing her expertise as an Ayurvedic physician and physiotherapist. Her work is integral to the preparation and analysis of Trivanga Bhasma detailed in the paper.
66) Nature:
Nature in Ayurveda represents the holistic approach that includes natural elements in healing. The study integrates natural processes and materials like minerals and herbs to create therapeutic Bhasma, balanced by the principles of Ayurvedic medicine.
67) Ashrama (Asrama):
Ashram refers to the traditional retreat associated with spiritual and health practices. Contributors from the Ganapathi Sachchidananda Ashram are part of the study, emphasizing the link between spiritual well-being and Ayurvedic medicine.
68) Silver:
Silver (Rajata) is one of the metals referenced in Rasashastra but not directly involved in the preparation of Trivanga Bhasma in the study. Metals like silver undergo similar processes in creating Bhasmas for therapeutic use.
69) Gold (Golden):
The golden period refers to the peak time of the Hindu dynasty when Rasashastra flourished, introducing metals like gold in medicinal uses. It signifies the rich history and evolution of Ayurvedic practices that include the preparation of Bhasmas.
70) Agada:
Agada Tantra is the branch of Ayurveda dealing with toxicology and detoxification techniques. The study uses principles from this branch to ensure metals are properly purified and safe before being processed into medicinal Bhasmas like Trivanga Bhasma.
71) Delhi:
Delhi is referenced in acknowledging collaborative contributions from Ayurvedic experts based in the region. It's home to institutions that partner with the JSS Ayurveda Medical College in Mysore for Ayurvedic research and analysis.
72) Ayus (Ayush):
Ayush is an Indian government initiative promoting Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. The journal AYUSHDHARA, publishing this study, aligns with Ayush's mission to further research and development in these traditional systems of medicine.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 76]
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