Preparation and Uses of Metalic Bhasma in Indian System of Medicine

Rasashastra is a branch of Ayurveda which deals with mainly metals and minerals, their Identification, purification, incineration and therapeutic uses. The number of metals found in nature throughout the world is innumerable. But only a few of them have been recognized to possess medicinal values in Ayurveda. Metals are highly important for our day to life as well as for our health. From the therapeutic point of view metals are used for the maintenance of health and curing of diseases. Different type of metallic bhasma has been used in either single form or compound form for the treatment of various diseases since long period. Ancient alchemists also mentioned detailed characteristics of standard bhasmas, their therapeutic effects and sub standard bhasma with harmful effects in the body. Much attention should be necessary to develop equipment for preparation of bhasma which having therapeutic efficacy, time consuming and cost effective.