Pharmaceutico-Analytical Study of Rajata Bhasma: An Ayurvedic and Modern Perspective

Background: Rajata Bhasma is an important Ayurvedic metallic preparation made from Rajata, Parada, Gandhaka, and Haratala, processed with Nimbu Swarasa and subjected to Laghu Puta. It is attributed with properties such as Hridya, Balya, Rasayana, and Ojovardhaka. Objective: To prepare Rajata Bhasma as per classical methods and evaluate its pharmaceutico-analytical characteristics. Methodology: Parada was extracted from Hingula by Urdhwa Patana method. Rajata underwent Samanya and Vishesha Shodhana, while Gandhaka and Haratala were purified using standard classical procedures. Rajata Bhasma was prepared through Bhavana with Nimbu Swarasa, Chakrika formation, and repeated Laghu Puta until attainment of Bhasma Siddhi Lakshanas.Analytical evaluation included physical and chemical analysis of Ashodhita Rajata, Shodhita Rajata, and Rajata Bhasma. Advanced instrumental analyses such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDAX), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were carried out. Results: XRD analysis showed transformation from crystalline elemental silver to predominantly Ag₂O with reduced crystallinity in the final product. SEM-EDAX revealed reduction in silver content along with the presence of sulphur and oxygen. FTIR analysis indicated the presence of functional groups such as phenols, amines, aromatics, and carboxylic acids, suggesting incorporation of herbal constituents during processing. The mean particle size of Rajata Bhasma was found to be 433 nm, indicating nanoscale reduction. Conclusion: Rajata Bhasma prepared as per classical methods shows significant physicochemical transformation, reduction in particle size, and incorporation of herbal functional groups. These changes may enhance its bioavailability and therapeutic potential.