Ayurvedic Bhasma as Bio-Engineered Nanomedicine: A Critical Review of Classical Synthesis Protocols and Modern Characterisation
Aadarsh Patidar1 and Milind Chatrabhuji2*
1,2Department of Rasashastra and Bhaishajya Kalpana, Parul Institute of Ayurved and Research, Parul University, Vadodara - 391760 (India) Corresponding Author: Dr Milind Chatrabhuji dr.milindchatrabhuji@gmail.com +91 9016821101
ABSTRACT
The field of modern nanomedicine faces significant challenges regarding the stability, biocompatibility, and cost-effective synthesis of metallic nanoparticles. Distinct from these recent developments, Rasashastra (Ayurvedic pharmaceutics) employs established, sophisticated protocols for converting metals and minerals into therapeutic, bio-assimilable nanoparticles known as Bhasma. This review aims to bridge the gap between classical Ayurvedic pharmaceutics and modern nanomedicine by analysing the Bhasmikarana process—currently employed in GMP-certified manufacturing—through the lens of contemporary nanotechnology. We critically examine the current Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) of Bhasma synthesis: Shodhana (purification/ detoxification), Bhavana (wet trituration with herbal juices), and Marana (incineration/calcination). These processes are evaluated against modern concepts of Top-down nanofabrication, surface functionalisation, and quantum confinement. Evidence from modern characterisation techniques, including Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and X-ray Diffraction (XRD), confirms that properly processed Bhasma comprises nanoparticles in the range of 10–100 nm. The unique process of Bhavana acts as a bio-functionalisation step, coating the metallic core with organic ligands to enhance biocompatibility and target-specific delivery