Bhasmas as nanoparticles

➢ Gold in traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine as Swarna bhasmas(gold ash) has been characterized as globular particles of gold with average size between 56 to 57 nanometre(nm). Also, Swana Bhasma and gold nanoparticles(NPs) prepared by modern method are quite comparable with respect to transmission electronic microscopy(TEM).
➢ Ras-Sindor (sublimed mercury compound) containing mercury sulphide has nanocrystalline size between 25 to 50 nm and is associated with several organic macromolecules derived from plant extract used during processing of drug.
➢ Nanoparticle size of Ayurvedic ‘bhasmas’ has been confirmed in another study where it is proposed that NPs are responsible for its fast and targeted action and subsequent action upon DNA/RNA molecule and protein synthesis within the cell.
➢ Physicochemical characterization of ‘yashada’ (Zinc) bhasma’ using modern are in oxygen deficient state and are in nanometer size range.


“Now, studies have also established that manufacturing methods of Bhasma are in tune of nanotechnology of modern era and bhasmas are nearer to nanocrystalline materials, similar in physico-chemical properties,” he added.
It may be mentioned here that Chaudhary, along with Prasanta Kumar Sarkar of department of Rasa Shashtra, JB Roy State Ayurvedic College, Kolkata have come up with research paper on ayurvedic bhasma after a number of studies in the subject for the past two years. Also, Neetu Singh, research scholar, department of Rasa Shashtra, is also working on the potential of ‘lauha bhasma’ (Bhasma containing traces of iron) in therapeutics, using nanomedicine.

All ‘bhasmas’ have some common properties like ‘rasayana’ (immuno-modulation and anti-aging quality) and ‘yogavahi’ (ability of drug carry and targeted drug delivery). These are prescribed in very minute dose (15 to 250 mg/day) and if prepared properly they are readily absorbable, adaptable and assimilate in the body without being toxic.

“These attributes of bhasmas are comparable with the action of NPs in the body which are also biodegradable, biocompatible and non-antigenic in nature,” Chaudhary said while comparing their properties.