Critical review on Naga Bhasma

Abstract

Rasa Shastra in Ayurveda focuses on metals and minerals categorized as Rasa, Maharasa, Uprasa, Dhatu, Ratna, Visha, etc., and is valued for its potent therapeutic effects compared to herbal drugs. Naga, a type of Putiloha in Dhatu Varga, is utilized for medicinal purposes to treat various ailments like Diabetes, Obesity, Joint issues, eye and skin conditions, and Anemia. The process of drug preparation explained in Rasa Shastra involves Samskara, which alters the characteristics of the drugs. The purification process, known as Shodhana, must be done on all medications before they are used in any mixture or undergo further processes like Jarana and Marana. In the field of Rasa Shastra, Jarana can be seen in various forms such as Parada Samskara, Gandhaka/Bali Jarana, and Putilohas Jarana. This article examines Jarana of the Putiloha. The preparation of Bhasma is a multistep and intricate process. The steps vary significantly depending on the type of herbal, metallic, or mineral media used in the Marana process. Naga (Lead) was grouped with heavy metals such as mercury, arsenic, and cadmium. It’s exposure can result in neurological disorders and issues with other body systems. Naga Bhasma is a preparation that includes Lead as its main ingredient. Lead and its compounds are harmful to human health. The presence of unique healing qualities in Naga Bhasma suggests that the Ayurvedic procedures used in its creation result in significant transformations in Naga. These processes eliminate its toxicity and add exceptional medicinal properties to Naga Bhasma.