Abstract

REVIEW ARTICLE ON RASASHASTRA AND BIOMEDICAL NANOTECHNOLOGY

Dr. Shallu* and Dr. Ravneet Kaur Chahal

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Abstract

Ayurveda is one of the oldest systems of medicine. Various types of medicines are used in this system like herbal, mineral, metallic and non- metallic. The process by which metallic, non- metallic and minerals are converted into easily absorbable form is called Bhasmikaran and the prepared fine powdered form is called Bhasma. The steps involved in Bhasma preparation are Shodhana (purification), Jarana (subjecting purified substance to heat), Bhasmikaran (conversion of substance in fine powder). These Bhasma have been in clinical use since the 8th century A. D. Rasashastra is the Ayurvedic branch which deals with the preparation of these Bhasmas. Nanotechnology is the advanced science technology which tends to develop dosage in the range of 1-100 nm (increased upto1000 nm). Nanotechnology is a newly introduced field in medical science which gives employment to today’s generation and they also took keen interest to learn about this. Nanotechnology includes a diverse collection of disciplines whereas Bhasma Kalpana is one of the oldest methods of converting metallic, non- metallic substances into non-toxic, biologically active organo- metallic and organo-mineral substances which can be used clinically. Test of these Bhasma is done by various methods, to avoid any toxic and adverse effects. The combination of both sciences will bring the best treatment for various lifethreatening diseases by lowering side-effects, toxicity and by improving bioavailability of drugs. Biomedical nanotechnology here is dedicated to nanoscience and nanotechnology for health wellness, diagnostic and treatment of various diseases. The application of nanotechnology is gaining positive response in almost all fields especially in the healthcare sector, tremendous developments have been achieved. For example cancer diagnosis, medical implants, tissue engineering, drug design and delivery. In this review, we attempt to revisit the Ayurvedic Bhasma Kalpana concept and modern nanotechnology concept and its application in medicine and drug delivery systems.

Keywords: Rasashastra, Bhasmikaran, Bhasma Kalpana, nanotechnology.