Review on Praval Panchamrita Rasa: A Natural Calcium Supplement

Abstract

Rasashastra (Itrochemistry), is a pharmaceutical subsidiary of Ayurveda that mainly deals with formulations containing minerals/metals. Praval Panchamrita Rasa is one of them which is a very versatile Ayurvedic formulation due to its multiple indications, mainly for Vata and Kapha diseases. This formulation is a combination of five Bhasmas i.e. Praval Bhasma, Mukta Bhasma, Shankha Bhasma, Shukti Bhasma and Kapardika Bhasma which are of marine origin and is triturated with Arka Ksheer (latex of Calotropis procera L.) and subjected to incineration. The latex of Calotropis procera L. plays an important role as a reducing and capping agent resulting in the green synthesis of nanoparticles. Preval Panchamrita Rasa has been mentioned in different classical texts such as Yoga Ratnakara, Bhaishajya Ratnavali, AFI, Rasa Yoga Sagar etc. Acharyas have described this formulation as “Sarvagadapahari” i.e. it can cure all diseases. XRD study of Praval Panchamrita Rasa revealed the maximum value of calcite form of calcium carbonate, while SEM study illustrated the smaller particle size range (max size ≤6μ) resulting in higher bioavailability of Praval Panchamrita Rasa. It has also been reported that calcium in calcite form is better absorbed as compared to other forms of calcium carbonate. It is a natural source of calcium which is a necessary nutrient for the proper functioning of the human body. Calcium is a crucial element that mediates muscle contraction, exocrine, endocrine and neurocrine secretion, cell growth, transportation and secretion of fluids and electrolytes.