Evaluation of Market Samples of Lauha Bhasma using Namburi Phased Spot Test (NPST)

Abstract

Introduction: Lauha bhasma is a herbo- metallic preparation in Ayurveda; it possesses ruksha- guru- lekhana guna, madhura vipaka, sheeta veerya which is indicated in kushta, kshaya, pandu, krimi, etc. disease conditions. Though bhasma are prepared by following the classical methods, in this commercialized world its purity and quality is a question. So in this study, classical bhasma pareeksha and Namburi Phased Spot Test (NPST) methods were employed on two market samples of Lauha bhasma to assess their purity and quality. Materials and Methods: Lauha bhasma of both market samples (sample 1 and sample 2) were subjected to classical bhasma pareeksha and NPST test methods. Observations and Results: Both samples were subjected to NPST and different test methods then parameters obtained were compared to standard values as per CCRAS guidelines. Discussion: Both samples of Lauha bhasma have passed the classical bhasma pareeksha suggestive of proper formation ofbhasma but differed in the time period of changes observed at different phases in NPST test. pH of both samples signifies the alkaline nature of bhasma. Conclusion: Both samples have tested for different parameters in which sample 1 showed changes as mentioned in NPST standards on-time compared to sample 2.