A Systematic Review of the Preparation, Standardization, Physicochemical Characterization, and Therapeutic Applications of Abhrak Bhasma: An Ayurvedic Herbo-Mineral Metallic Preparation
Abstract
Background: Abhrak Bhasma is a calcined mica ash used in Rasashastra, the Indian alchemical tradition focused on metals and minerals. It is known for its claimed benefits in treating several health problems, especially as a rejuvenator and a drug delivery enhancer, and is used for conditions like respiratory disorders, diabetes, anemia, and liver issues. Although it has a long history, there is still a need for systematic scientific research to support these traditional claims.
Objective: This systematic review examines and summarizes recent research on Abhrak Bhasma. It covers how it is traditionally prepared, its detailed physical and chemical properties, its effects in the body, its uses in treatment, and its safety.
Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted following PRISMA principles across electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, AYUSH Research Portal, and Google Scholar, for studies published from inception to September 2024. The search used keywords and MeSH phrases relevant to "Abhrak Bhasma," "Mica Ash," "Ayurvedic Medicine," "Rasayana," and "Pharmacology." The studies included in vitro, in vivo, clinical investigations, and analyses of the chemical composition of the materials. The SYRCLE tool assessed bias in animal research, and the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool evaluated bias in clinical trials.
Results: Seventy eight studies met criteria for inclusion of the 1,532 records identified. The latter review clearly presents the traditional method of preparation of Abhrak Bhasma to be quite a complex multi-stepped process with purification (Shodhana) employing alcholic extracts and cow's products; and then incineration (Marana) performed under highly controlled high temperature processes. Advanced materials characterization studies (XRD, SEM–EDX, TEM, FTIR and DLS) revealed its conversion to a nanocrystalline mineral phase composed predominantly of magnesium, iron, silicon and calcium both as oxides and silicates. Pharmacologies n = 45 exhibited significant antioxidant,anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, antidiabetic, antianemic, and immunomodulatory effects. Clinical evidence (n=12) from few trials suggests its benefits in ailments like Tamaka Shwasa (bronchial asthma), diabetes mellitus, and anemia. There were 15 toxicity studies wherein properly processed Abhrak Bhasma proves to be safe at therapeutic dosage and presence of heavy metals being in non-bioavailable, complex oxide form.
Conclusion: In conclusion, Abhrak Bhasma is an important and complex nanomedicine that has been rooted in history for centuries. Several available research findings have even shown that ABM can be converted into a biologically active substance of specific pharmacotherapeutic action with considerable clinical perspectives. However, CLR and other clinical significance still require more high-level evidence. Securing its place in modern medicine will require more evidence-based and well-designed research using standardized formulations.
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