Abstract

RASASHASTRA AND BIOMEDICAL NANOTECHNOLOGY

*Dr. Rajiv Mehta, Dr. Sapanjeet Kaur and Dr. Prabhpreet Singh

Abstract

Nanotechnology is an emerging science of 21st century which can develop extremely small structures of dimensions approximately between 1 to 100 nm which can be increased upto 1000nm. Nanomedicine is the relevance of nanotechnology in the area of healthcare, diagnosis, cure and prevention of disease. In Ayurveda metals and minerals are used as medicines since Samhita period but after 7th Cent AD with the evolution of Rasashastra the metal and minerals started converted from macro form into very fine form of medicines usually 5-50nm in dimensions known as Bhasma (Ash) by the various pharmaceutical processes called Bhavna (levigation), Shodhana (Purification), Jarana (purified substance subjected to heat) and Marana (incineration). Bhasmas are biologically active nanoparticles which are therapeutically most effective due to its increased bioavailability and are least toxic form of medicines. Bhasma can be used for targeted or controlled drug delivery system which reduces the repeated dose administration and lowers the adverse effects. Ayurvedic Bhasma form is considered safe and inexpensive in comparison to current metal based nano medicines. Integration of Ayurveda with recent developments in nanotechnology can help in designing safe and best future medicines to treat various life threatening diseases.

Keywords: Nanotechnology, Rasa Shastra, Bhasma.