Mandura Bhasma: A Comprehensive Review and use

 

Fayalite, Fe2Si04, iron-rich end-member

Mandura Bhasma: A Comprehensive Review

Introduction

Mandura Bhasma, a classical Ayurvedic preparation, is an iron-based metallic formulation known for its extensive therapeutic applications. It has been used in Ayurvedic medicine since ancient times for treating various ailments, particularly anemia (Pandu), liver disorders (Kamala), and inflammation (Shotha). The preparation of Mandura Bhasma involves Shodhana (purification) and Marana (incineration) processes, which transform raw iron oxide into a bioavailable and therapeutic form.

Historical and Ayurvedic References

Mandura Bhasma has been mentioned in Charaka Samhita (15th century B.C.), Ashtanga Hridayam, and Rasaratna Samucchaya as a potent remedy for iron deficiency and various systemic disorders. The Ayurvedic classics describe its effectiveness in restoring Raktadhatu (blood tissue) and balancing Pitta and Kapha doshas.

Types of Mandura

Mandura can be classified into three major types based on its physical characteristics and therapeutic potency:

TypeColor & FeaturesPotency
Mundalohakitta ManduraReddish, heavy, oilyModerate
Tikshnalohakitta ManduraBlackish, heavy, non-porousHigh
Kantaloha ManduraYellowish, impervious, strongestVery High

Among these, Kantaloha Mandura is considered the most potent and effective in treating chronic diseases.

Pharmacological Properties

Mandura Bhasma exhibits a combination of Rasa (taste), Guna (qualities), Virya (potency), Vipaka (post-digestive effect), and Doshaghnata (effect on doshas), making it highly beneficial in various disorders.

PropertyDescription
Rasa (Taste)Kashaya (astringent), Madhura (sweet)
Virya (Potency)Sheeta (cooling)
Vipaka (Post-digestive effect)Katu (pungent)
Guna (Qualities)Ruksha (dry), Laghu (light), Deepana (appetizer)
Doshaghnata (Effect on Doshas)Balances Pitta and Kapha

Chemical Properties

Mandura Bhasma primarily contains:

  • Iron (Fe) - 30% or more
  • Silica (SiO₂) - 30%
  • Fayalite (Fe₂SiO₄) - 80%
  • Trace elements like Zn, Cu, and As within permissible limits

Purification (Shodhana) Process

Mandura undergoes purification to remove toxic impurities and enhance its therapeutic efficacy. The process involves dipping raw Mandura in medicinal liquids like:

  1. Sesame oil
  2. Buttermilk
  3. Cow urine (Gomutra)
  4. Kanji (fermented rice water)
  5. Horse gram decoction

Additional purification methods described in classical texts include Pachana (boiling), Nirvapa (quenching in liquids), and Abhisheka (washing with Triphala Kwatha).

Incineration (Marana) Process

The purified Mandura is further calcined (Marana process) with repeated cycles of heating (Puta system) using different herbal media like Triphala Kwatha, Gomutra, and Loha Marak Gana to make it easily absorbable.

Therapeutic Indications

Mandura Bhasma is a potent Ayurvedic formulation used in the treatment of various diseases, including:

1. Hematological Disorders

  • Pandu (Anemia) – Enhances hemoglobin levels and treats iron deficiency.
  • Raktapitta (Bleeding disorders) – Strengthens blood vessels and prevents excessive bleeding.

2. Hepatic Disorders

  • Kamala (Jaundice) – Acts as a hepatoprotective agent and detoxifies the liver.
  • Pliha Shotha (Splenomegaly) – Reduces spleen enlargement and improves digestion.

3. Digestive Disorders

  • Grahani (Malabsorption syndrome) – Improves digestive strength and nutrient absorption.
  • Arsha (Piles) – Prevents constipation and reduces hemorrhoidal swelling.

4. Anti-inflammatory & Detoxifying Agent

  • Shotha (Inflammation & Edema) – Reduces swelling and improves circulation.
  • Krimi (Parasitic Infections) – Acts as an anti-parasitic agent.

Dosage & Administration

Mandura Bhasma should be administered under the guidance of an Ayurvedic practitioner.

Age GroupDosage
Children20-55 mg
Adults120-350 mg
Maximum Dosage (As per Rasatarangini)30-240 mg

Anupana (Adjuvants)

Mandura Bhasma is commonly taken with honey (Shahad) or Triphala decoction to enhance its absorption and efficacy.

Potential Side Effects of Impure Mandura (Ashuddha Mandura)

If not properly purified, Mandura Bhasma can lead to toxicity, causing:

  • Panduta (Severe anemia)
  • Kustha (Skin disorders)
  • Hridroga (Cardiac ailments)
  • Mutrashmari (Kidney stones)
  • Mrityu (Fatal toxicity in high doses)

Popular Formulations of Mandura Bhasma

Mandura Bhasma is a key ingredient in various classical Ayurvedic formulations, such as:

  1. Punarnavadi Mandur – Used for anemia and liver disorders.
  2. Triphala Mandur – Acts as a detoxifier and improves digestion.
  3. Tapyadi Mandur – Treats general weakness and iron deficiency.
  4. Koladi Mandur – Beneficial for digestive disorders and malabsorption.

Scientific Research & Modern Validation

Several studies have validated the efficacy of Mandura Bhasma:

  • Hepatoprotective Activity – Mandura Bhasma was found to protect the liver from CCl₄-induced toxicity in experimental models.
  • Hematological Benefits – Studies showed significant improvement in hemoglobin levels and RBC count in anemic patients.
  • Lipid Metabolism – Research indicated that Mandura Bhasma aids in lipolysis (fat breakdown) and regulates cholesterol levels.

Conclusion

Mandura Bhasma is a time-tested Ayurvedic formulation with a profound impact on iron metabolism, liver health, and inflammatory conditions. Its purification and calcination processes make it a safe and bioavailable form of iron compared to conventional iron supplements. Proper administration under expert supervision ensures maximum therapeutic benefits with minimal side effects.

Physicochemical characterization of an Iron based Indian traditional medicine: Mandura Bhasma - PMC

Bhasma : The ancient Indian nanomedicine - PMC

20220167560

Key Benefits:

  • This ayurvedic formulation may act as a haematinic (increases haemoglobin levels and hematogenic (helps in the formation of red blood cells) that makes it effective in dealing with iron deficiencies
  • It can be effective in dealing with anaemia and general debility associated with anaemia
  • It has anthelmintic and carminative properties that can help in combatting parasite worms and relieve flatulence
  • This product acts as a digestive stimulant and may help deal with liver and spleen enlargement
  • It can also act as an effective fat burner for effective weight loss
  • It has hypoglycemic properties that can help in maintaining proper blood sugar levels
  • It can lower the bilirubin level to elevate liver health and may help in the prevention of excessive blood loss during periods


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