REVISITING ANCIENT THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF AYURVEDIC BHASMA

With the advent of nanotechnology, it has become important to realize the immense potential of ayurvedic bhasma which had been there for centuries. The study of ayurvedic bhasma as nanomedicine is an important interdisciplinary research area in need of contributions from material science, chemistry, pharmacology, etc. Such a research will definitely help in the characterization and standardization of these bhasmas which is a very complex problem. However, this system is not getting recognition in other parts of the world. Among the various reasons listed for lack of popularity of ayurveda, is non-availability of ‘standards’ for ayurvedic medicine particularly when prepared on large scale in modern pharmaceutical plants, matching the convenience palatability of modern dosage forms. Many times, it is reported that the preparation, particularly those mineral based are found to contain toxic substances exceeding permissible limits. There has been a lot of hue and cry regarding the safety and efficacy of the bhasmas, especially after publication of certain reports in print media. Further, the commercial pharmacies not adhering to the traditional methods adopt short cut methods and use of adulterated / substandard material augmented the apprehensions in public over their utility. It is therefore needed to explore the same with a multidisciplinary approach, the present study is contemplated. The present review is aimed at finding out the ways and means to standardize the manufacturing processes and develop standardization methods after they have been formed.