A comprehensive review of Formulations containing Mākśika Bhasma

Abstract

Background: Makshika Bhasma, is a mineral preparation well-known in Rasashastra texts. The Bhasma is prepared by repeatedly exposing selective metallic/mineral origin materials to the incineration method of preparation named Puta. Aim: To prepare comprehensive data related to various formulations, indications, doses, Anupāna, etc. of Mākśika​ Bhasma recorded in Bharata Bhaishajya Ratnakara. Materials and Methods: The data about Mākśika​ Bhasma from the Bharata Bhaiṣajya Ratnakara is systematically collated and analyzed. Mākśika​ Bhasma is used as a major and minor ingredient in most formulations, and a different percentage of Mākśika​ Bhasma is used in various formulations of text. Making a note of this, it has been decided to calculate the percentage of Mākśika​ Bhasma, Anupana, dose, and therapeutic indications in different formulations. Results: It is observed that a total of 165 references related to various formulations such as rasa, Vati, Gutika, Leham, Modaka, Avaleha, Loham, and their dosages and indications were observed. Among 14 dosage forms, Rasa was found to be the maximum, followed by Vati, Gutika, Churna, Rasayanam, Lehyam, Loham, Anjana, Guggulu, Kvatha, Modaka, Drava, Pottali, Lepa, and Parpati. It is also found that it is used in various disorders such as Vimśati Prameha, Yakśmā, Grahaṇī, Pāṇḍu, Arsha, Raktapitta, Udara, Netraśukra, Āmavāta, Vātarakta, Mūtrakrchra. Conclusion: 165 formulations are mentioned in Bharata Bhaishajya Ratnakara, in which Mākśika​ Bhasma is used as an ingredient Madhu, Ghrita, Ksheera, Pippali, and Guda are found to be the most commonly used Anupana (adjuvant/vehicle). About 65 % of Rasa formulations have Mākśika​ Bhasma as an ingredient.