Asian Journal
Of Traditional Medicines

Abstract: Naga bhasma is a organo-metallic preparation. It is prepared using lead and different herbs and found effective in the treatment
of diseases such as diarrhea, spleen enlargement and diabetes. Lead is considered as poisonous heavy metal but products
containing Naga bhasma are non-toxic it is used by medical professionals practicing Ayurveda. Naga bhasma is manufactured
by the procedures described in Ayurvedic literature. Different methods of preparation are available in Ayurveda but the
standard monograph is unavailable. The present work is an attempt to establish parameters for standardization of Naga
bhasma. According to one of the references following method for preparation of Naga bhasma involves quenching of molten
lead into different herbal juices. Grinding and heating of this material several times generates specific organo-metallic complex.
Quenching with Til Oil (sesame oil), Buttermilk, Gomutra (Cow’s Urine), Kanji (Starch Paste), (Kulittha Kwatha) purifies Lead
and mixing and stirring to get powder blend with bark Ashwattha (Ficus religiosa) and Amlika (Tamrindus indica) followed by
heating and grinding with Turmeric powder and Aloe vera juice removes toxicity to generate specific organo-metallic complex.
The parameters (form, nature and particle size) of Naga bhasma were characterized based on structural and elemental basis,
using XRD, IR, AAS, SEM with EDAX and DSC. Acceptance criteria at various stages of preparation of the Naga bhasma were
established based on the above method results. The work will help to changes occurring different stages of bhasma, standardize
the raw material specifications, process parameters, in- process specifications and finished product (Naga bhasma) specifications.

Key words: Naga bhasma, organo-metallic complex, standardization