Spectroscopic Analysis of Thermodynamic Changes in Shataputi Abhrak Bhasma at Various Stages of its Preparation

Abstract

Introduction: The science of Rasashastra needs to be upgraded with the help of technological advances of today's world, which shall open up new avenues for drug processing, development, and therapeutics in Ayurveda. Bhasma Kalpana is a widely used pharmaceutical form that demands exploration in view of the thermodynamic changes occurring in a closed system during incinerations. Shataputi Abhrak Bhasma encompassing a wide range of Putas was selected for assessing the quantum mechanical changes due to repeated incinerations. Aims and objectives: To analyze the effect of preparatory procedures on molecular structure, particle size, elemental assay, effect of rise in temperature on mass, and the percentage reflectance and absorbance of sunlight of Shataputi Abhrak Bhasma. Materials and methods: Shataputi Abhrak Bhasma was prepared in accordance to reference from Rasa Jala Nidhi. Shodhan was done with Nirvap in Godugdha and Maran was done with hundred Gajaputas adopting Bhavana with Gomutra. Abhrak Bhasma samples of various stages of incineration were subjected to advanced analytical tests like X-ray diffraction (XRD), inductive coupled plasma-atomic electron spectroscopy (ICP–AES), field emission gun-scanning electron microscopy (FEG-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermogravimetric analysisdifferential thermal analysis (TGA-DTA), and ultraviolet-visible-infrared spectroscopy (UV-Vis-IR) at the Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay. Results and conclusion: Advanced spectroscopic analytical tests revealed significant changes with increase in incinerations like complete destruction of the original compound, formation of newer compounds, significant change in the percentage of original elements, particle size reduction to the nanometer scale, thermal decomposition and recrystallization, and decrease in reflectance of sunlight. Clinical significance: The number of incinerations of a Bhasma is directly related to its therapeutic potential. Understanding the physical and chemical changes occurring at the molecular level of the Bhasma during incinerations highlighted the significance attached with the process of Maran. The study helped standardize and update the knowledge regarding differently incinerated Abhrak Bhasma and also explore the therapeutic potential of Shataputi Abhrak Bhasma that is regarded as a Rasayan.