Abstract

PHARMACEUTICAL AND ANALYTICAL STUDY OF SHANKHA BHASMA

Dr. Shallu*, Dr. Ravneet Kaur Chahal, Dr. Abhishek, Mr. Raghav Chawla and Dr. Birender Kumar

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Abstract

Introduction: Ayurveda is an ancient science. Rasa Shastra is one of the mainstream which deals with preparation of Ayurvedic formulations with help of various procedures like Shodhana, Jarana, Marana. Shankha Bhasma is also one of the calcium-containing minerals which is prepared by using these methods. Shankha has been known as Indian medicine for centuries. It is a drug of Sudha Varga. Shankha Bhasma is used in various formulations for treatment of various gastrointestinal disorders. It is a mineral drug with light pink to yellowish white color. It is not recommended for direct intake, so various Shodhana, Marana procedures have to be done before its internal use. Methods: Raw drugs are collected from the local market and its authentication can be done as per Grahya Lakshana mentioned in Classical texts. Then its purification and incineration is done as per reference of Rasatarangini. This was followed by physio-chemical analysis of finished products which include loss on drying, loss on ignition, acid soluble ash, test for calcium. Result and Conclusion: Efficacy of Shankha Bhasma was specified with its physico-chemical analysis. During incineration Bhavana of Kumari Swarasa was given to make it more efficient. At the end of all the procedures, the final product yields 302 gm of Shankha Bhasma.

Keywords: Rasa Shastra, Shankha, Grahya Lakshana, Shodhana, Marana.