14.01.2015 Views

Recent Trends in the Usage of Herbo-Mineral Formulations in ... - IJPI

Recent Trends in the Usage of Herbo-Mineral Formulations in ... - IJPI

Recent Trends in the Usage of Herbo-Mineral Formulations in ... - IJPI

SHOW MORE
SHOW LESS

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF<br />

REVIEW ARTICLE<br />

PHARMACEUTICAL INNOVATIONS ISSN 2249-1031<br />

<strong>Recent</strong> <strong>Trends</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Usage</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Herbo</strong>-M<strong>in</strong>eral <strong>Formulations</strong> <strong>in</strong><br />

Healthcare System<br />

Joshi Nirali. B. * 1 , and Shankar M. B. 2<br />

1. Shri Jagdish Prasad Jhabarmal Tibrewala University, Vidyanagari, Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan.<br />

2. Shivam Pharmaceutical studies and research centre, Valasan, Anand – 388 326<br />

ABSTRACT:<br />

Ayurveda has earth-shatter<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> audience <strong>of</strong> worldwide on virtue <strong>of</strong> its<br />

holistic approach <strong>of</strong> life and its fewer side effects. Ayurvedic herbal and<br />

herbo-m<strong>in</strong>eral preparations are used for <strong>the</strong> treatment <strong>of</strong> chronic and<br />

degenerative diseases without any side -effect. <strong>Herbo</strong>-m<strong>in</strong>eral formulation<br />

uses herbs, m<strong>in</strong>erals or metals as bhasmas for chronic disorders and proved<br />

its effectiveness. The present work is an attempt to emphasis on <strong>the</strong> benefits<br />

and problems associated with it.<br />

Key words: Ayurveda, Bhasma, Heavy metals, <strong>Herbo</strong>-m<strong>in</strong>eral, Rasayana<br />

Tantra, S<strong>in</strong>doora<br />

INTRODUCTION:<br />

Ayurveda is a holistic eternal<br />

heal<strong>in</strong>g science that existed <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

universal consciousness. It is a<br />

science that deals not only with<br />

treatment <strong>of</strong> some diseases but is a<br />

complete way <strong>of</strong> life (1 ) . Ayurveda<br />

was first perceived by Brahma who<br />

<strong>the</strong>n taught it to Daksha-Prajapati<br />

followed by Aswani-kumars.<br />

Knowledge <strong>of</strong> Ayurveda <strong>in</strong>dicates<br />

<strong>the</strong> appropriate and <strong>in</strong>appropriate,<br />

happy or sorrowful condition <strong>of</strong><br />

liv<strong>in</strong>g, what is auspicious or<br />

<strong>in</strong>auspicious for prolonged<br />

existence as well as measure <strong>of</strong> life<br />

(2 ) .<br />

<strong>Formulations</strong> o f Ayurveda are<br />

herbal, m<strong>in</strong>eral, metal and animal<br />

orig<strong>in</strong>, which are processed<br />

pharmaceutically for <strong>the</strong>ir<br />

<strong>the</strong>rapeutic effects. In today‟s<br />

scenario 80% <strong>of</strong> world‟s population<br />

depends on herbal drugs. Accord<strong>in</strong>g<br />

to WHO, Ayurvedic medic<strong>in</strong>es<br />

come under traditional medic<strong>in</strong>es<br />

and refers to health practices,<br />

approaches knowledge and beliefs<br />

<strong>in</strong>corporat<strong>in</strong>g plant, animal and<br />

m<strong>in</strong>eral based medic<strong>in</strong>es, spiritual<br />

<strong>the</strong>rapies, manual techniques and<br />

*Correspond<strong>in</strong>g Author<br />

Joshi Nirali. B.<br />

Volume 3, Issue 3, May − June 2013<br />

116 | P a g e<br />

http://www.ijpi.org


INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF<br />

REVIEW ARTICLE<br />

PHARMACEUTICAL INNOVATIONS ISSN 2249-1031<br />

exercises (Yoga and Pranayam),<br />

applied s<strong>in</strong>gularly (Herb) or <strong>in</strong><br />

comb<strong>in</strong>ation (Polyherb) to treat,<br />

diagnose and prevent illnesses or<br />

ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong> well-be<strong>in</strong>gs (3 ) .<br />

Despite <strong>of</strong> tremendous advancement<br />

<strong>in</strong> Allopathic system <strong>of</strong> medic<strong>in</strong>es,<br />

<strong>the</strong>re are many areas <strong>in</strong> which<br />

allopathic medic<strong>in</strong>es have failed to<br />

prove its effectiveness. Ma<strong>in</strong><br />

drawback <strong>of</strong> allopathic system is its<br />

side effects, high cost <strong>of</strong> drugs, and<br />

lack <strong>of</strong> curative treatment for<br />

chronic diseases and reoccurrence<br />

<strong>of</strong> disease after stoppage <strong>of</strong><br />

medication. People are los<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir<br />

faith towards allopat hic medic<strong>in</strong>es<br />

and go<strong>in</strong>g towards <strong>the</strong> use <strong>of</strong><br />

traditional medic<strong>in</strong>es such as<br />

Ayurveda, Unani, Sidha and<br />

Naturopathy. As per <strong>the</strong> WHO,<br />

about three-quarters <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> world‟s<br />

population currently use herbs and<br />

o<strong>the</strong>r forms <strong>of</strong> traditional<br />

medic<strong>in</strong>es to treat <strong>the</strong>ir diseases.<br />

Herbal products are natural and<br />

people believe it as a safe medic<strong>in</strong>e<br />

(4 ) .<br />

In recent past <strong>the</strong>re are occurrences<br />

<strong>of</strong> some doubt on safety and<br />

efficacy <strong>of</strong> herbal formulations as<br />

it is marked as a dietary<br />

supplement and <strong>the</strong>y are regulated<br />

under <strong>the</strong> Dietar y Supplement<br />

Health and Education Act<br />

(DSHEA), which does not require<br />

pro<strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong> safety and efficacy. Herbal<br />

products can be as toxic as or even<br />

more toxic than prescription<br />

medic<strong>in</strong>es. Due to wrong<br />

Volume 3, Issue 3, May − June 2013<br />

<strong>in</strong>terpretation and question <strong>of</strong><br />

safety and efficacy <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> product,<br />

people are afraid <strong>of</strong> us<strong>in</strong>g herbal<br />

medic<strong>in</strong>es. Therefore, it is<br />

necessary to access <strong>the</strong> quality <strong>of</strong><br />

drugs based on <strong>the</strong> active<br />

<strong>in</strong>gredient and safety and efficacy<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> product as per <strong>the</strong> WHO<br />

guidel<strong>in</strong>es for formulation and raw<br />

material. Standardization <strong>of</strong> herbal<br />

drugs <strong>in</strong>cludes au<strong>the</strong>ntication <strong>of</strong> its<br />

identity and determ<strong>in</strong>ation <strong>of</strong> its<br />

quality and purity. Standardization<br />

<strong>of</strong> herbal formulation is vital and<br />

need broader considerations as <strong>the</strong>y<br />

are developed at time <strong>of</strong> limited<br />

access to technologically variable<br />

norms <strong>of</strong> standardization (5 ) .<br />

Herbal <strong>in</strong>dustry due to its holistic<br />

approach towards life and fewer<br />

side effects made great pace <strong>in</strong><br />

India, with <strong>the</strong> co-operation<br />

between drug regulatory<br />

authorities, scientists and<br />

<strong>in</strong>dustries. Correct recognition <strong>of</strong><br />

raw material is necessary for<br />

avoid<strong>in</strong>g adulteration and to make<br />

it commercially available.<br />

Problems Associated with<br />

Ayurvedic Formulation<br />

Ayurveda is one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> world‟s<br />

oldest traditional medic<strong>in</strong>al systems<br />

and is experienc<strong>in</strong>g revitalization<br />

among <strong>the</strong> consumers throughout <strong>the</strong><br />

word. However <strong>the</strong> major drawback<br />

associated with Ayurveda is <strong>the</strong> lack<br />

<strong>of</strong> evidence based on its standard<br />

pr<strong>of</strong>ile and quality and safety<br />

aspects <strong>of</strong> Ayurvedic formulations.<br />

There is a lack <strong>of</strong> data support<strong>in</strong>g<br />

117 | P a g e<br />

http://www.ijpi.org


INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF<br />

REVIEW ARTICLE<br />

PHARMACEUTICAL INNOVATIONS ISSN 2249-1031<br />

<strong>the</strong> efficacy <strong>of</strong> cl<strong>in</strong>ical trials <strong>in</strong><br />

traditional medic<strong>in</strong>es. O<strong>the</strong>r major<br />

problem associated with Ayurvedic<br />

formulation is <strong>the</strong> loss <strong>of</strong> genetic<br />

biodiversity or risk <strong>of</strong> annih ilation<br />

(6 ) .<br />

Heavy metal (HM) toxicity is a<br />

major safety issue <strong>in</strong> Ayurvedic<br />

formulations and it is essential to<br />

evaluate <strong>the</strong>m for <strong>the</strong>ir content.<br />

Table-1 provides data <strong>of</strong> Ayurvedic<br />

formulations conta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g heavy<br />

metals (Lead, Mercury, and/or<br />

Arsenic)<br />

(7 ) . Ayurvedic literature<br />

emphasizes <strong>the</strong> use <strong>of</strong> heavy metals<br />

<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir formulation due to <strong>the</strong>ir<br />

particular biological properties for<br />

cur<strong>in</strong>g. Ayurveda has described<br />

specific physiochemical processes<br />

like sublimation, heat<strong>in</strong>g etc to<br />

detoxify <strong>the</strong> metals and to avoid its<br />

toxicity Heavy metals <strong>in</strong> Ayurvedic<br />

medic<strong>in</strong>es <strong>in</strong>clude not only lead and<br />

mercury but o<strong>the</strong>r metals such as<br />

chromium, iron, z<strong>in</strong>c, nickel,<br />

cadmium, arsenic and tungsten.<br />

Amount <strong>of</strong> heavy metals and trace<br />

elements <strong>in</strong> Ayurvedic preparation<br />

depends on <strong>the</strong> geographical<br />

location, vary<strong>in</strong>g accord<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>the</strong><br />

quality <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> soil, water or air<br />

pollution (8 ) .<br />

The American medical research<br />

community has sounded a heavy<br />

metal warn<strong>in</strong>g aga<strong>in</strong>st Ayurvedic<br />

cures. Herbal products from <strong>the</strong><br />

Indian system <strong>of</strong> medic<strong>in</strong>e sold <strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> US conta<strong>in</strong> dangerous levels <strong>of</strong><br />

lead, mercury & arsenic<br />

(9 ) .<br />

Environmental impact <strong>of</strong> heavy<br />

metals (1 0 , 1 1 ) such as Cd, Pb, Hg<br />

Volume 3, Issue 3, May − June 2013<br />

and as it causes serious concern on<br />

<strong>the</strong> health <strong>of</strong> <strong>in</strong>dividuals. In Japan,<br />

Itai-itai disease (1 2 ) and M<strong>in</strong>amata<br />

disease (1 3 ) are caused due to <strong>the</strong><br />

consumption <strong>of</strong> rice conta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g Cd<br />

and eat<strong>in</strong>g methyl mercury<br />

contam<strong>in</strong>ated fish respectively.<br />

Table-2 gives <strong>in</strong>formation about<br />

most important disaster occurred<br />

with heavy metals (1 4 ) .<br />

Current levels <strong>of</strong> toxic metals <strong>in</strong><br />

some environmental compartments<br />

may be high enough to constitute a<br />

threat to human health. Table-3<br />

provides data <strong>of</strong> global emission <strong>of</strong><br />

trace metals <strong>in</strong>to atmosphere, water<br />

and soil. Environmental exposure<br />

to low levels <strong>of</strong> lead has been<br />

allied with a wide range <strong>of</strong><br />

metabolic disorders and<br />

neuropsychological deficiencies.<br />

Toxicity <strong>of</strong> lead at metabolic and<br />

cellular level <strong>in</strong> asymptomatic<br />

children <strong>in</strong>clude<br />

Impairments <strong>in</strong> hemoglob<strong>in</strong>,<br />

vitam<strong>in</strong> D and red blood cell<br />

nucleotide metabolism,<br />

Trepidations <strong>of</strong> calcium<br />

homeostasis <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

hepatocytes, bone cells and<br />

bra<strong>in</strong> cells,<br />

Neurological damage<br />

Dangerous level <strong>of</strong> cadmium <strong>in</strong><br />

environment leads to <strong>in</strong>toxication<br />

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> kidney like tubular<br />

prote<strong>in</strong>uria ad renal dysfunction.<br />

High amount <strong>of</strong> arsenic <strong>in</strong><br />

environment contam<strong>in</strong>ates dr<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g<br />

water and causes sk<strong>in</strong> cancer,<br />

118 | P a g e<br />

http://www.ijpi.org


INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF<br />

REVIEW ARTICLE<br />

PHARMACEUTICAL INNOVATIONS ISSN 2249-1031<br />

peripheral vascular disorders<br />

(known as black foot disease),<br />

hyper-pigmentation and keratosis<br />

(1 5 ) . Table-4 provides data <strong>of</strong> most<br />

commonly used metals, its toxic<br />

effect on human and <strong>the</strong>ir treatment<br />

(1 6 ) .<br />

Medic<strong>in</strong>al plants grows <strong>in</strong> nature<br />

can accumulate heavy metals at<br />

certa<strong>in</strong> extent which depends on its<br />

<strong>in</strong>dividual properties and <strong>the</strong><br />

concentration <strong>of</strong> HM <strong>in</strong> soil, air<br />

and water<br />

(1 7 ) . Heavy metal<br />

contam<strong>in</strong>ation is due to accidental<br />

contam<strong>in</strong>ation<br />

dur<strong>in</strong>g<br />

manufactur<strong>in</strong>g process such as<br />

gr<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>g, use <strong>of</strong> lead releas<strong>in</strong>g<br />

equipments or o<strong>the</strong>r manufactur<strong>in</strong>g<br />

utensils (1 8 ) . Due to its hazardous<br />

effect, heavy metal content <strong>in</strong><br />

plants and foodstuff must be<br />

limited and GMPs procedures<br />

should be implemented dur<strong>in</strong>g<br />

manufactur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>of</strong> Ayurvedic<br />

formulation (1 9 ) .<br />

Environment factors can be<br />

controlled by implement<strong>in</strong>g<br />

standard operat<strong>in</strong>g procedures<br />

(SOP) lead<strong>in</strong>g to Good Agricultural<br />

Practice (GAP), Good Laboratory<br />

Practice (GLP), Good Supply<br />

Practice (GSP) and Good<br />

Manufactur<strong>in</strong>g Practice (GMP) for<br />

produc<strong>in</strong>g medic<strong>in</strong>al products from<br />

herbal or natural sources. The<br />

public belief that herbal and natural<br />

products are safer than syn<strong>the</strong>tic<br />

medic<strong>in</strong>es can only be ascerta<strong>in</strong>ed<br />

by impos<strong>in</strong>g regulatory standards<br />

on herbal products that should be<br />

Volume 3, Issue 3, May − June 2013<br />

manufactured us<strong>in</strong>g Good Practices<br />

(2 0 ) . .<br />

Benefits <strong>of</strong> <strong>Herbo</strong>-M<strong>in</strong>eral<br />

<strong>Formulations</strong><br />

<strong>Herbo</strong> m<strong>in</strong>eral formulation uses <strong>the</strong><br />

metals and m<strong>in</strong>erals for chronic<br />

disorders <strong>in</strong> different comb<strong>in</strong>ations,<br />

dosage forms and at various levels<br />

<strong>of</strong> purities. Hence it is very<br />

essential to prepare it <strong>in</strong> a proper<br />

way. As per <strong>the</strong> reported data, <strong>the</strong>re<br />

are so many herbo-m<strong>in</strong>eral<br />

formulations available <strong>in</strong> market<br />

which is useful <strong>in</strong> anemia, diabetes,<br />

cancer, liver diseases, sk<strong>in</strong> diseases<br />

etc. Table-5 shows <strong>the</strong> list <strong>of</strong><br />

herbo-m<strong>in</strong>eral formulation and its<br />

uses <strong>in</strong> common diseases as per<br />

WHO guidel<strong>in</strong>es – Traditional<br />

medic<strong>in</strong>es <strong>in</strong> Asia (2 1 ) .<br />

Prakash et al (2 2 ) reported Prak-20<br />

(judicious comb<strong>in</strong>ation <strong>of</strong> n<strong>in</strong>eteen<br />

herbs and Mandoor Bhasma) that is<br />

a potent hepato-protective herbom<strong>in</strong>eral<br />

formulation used <strong>in</strong><br />

treatment <strong>of</strong> liver ailments <strong>in</strong> CCl 4<br />

<strong>in</strong>duced toxicity <strong>in</strong> rats. Prak -20<br />

treated animals had m<strong>in</strong>imum<br />

necrotic changes after seven day<br />

treatment and fur<strong>the</strong>r studies are<br />

required to understand its<br />

mechanism <strong>of</strong> action.<br />

Chronic urticaria (Refractory sk<strong>in</strong><br />

diseases) <strong>of</strong>ten creates a<br />

<strong>the</strong>rapeutic challenge. Herbal<br />

treatment is ga<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g popularity <strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> treatment <strong>of</strong> chronic urticaria.<br />

Azad Hussa<strong>in</strong> et al (2 3 ) has reported<br />

that Unani herbo-m<strong>in</strong>eral<br />

formulation is effective and safe<br />

119 | P a g e<br />

http://www.ijpi.org


INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF<br />

REVIEW ARTICLE<br />

PHARMACEUTICAL INNOVATIONS ISSN 2249-1031<br />

for <strong>the</strong> treatment <strong>of</strong> chronic<br />

urticaria. It has produced<br />

significant effect on itch<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

wheals, and ery<strong>the</strong>ma without<br />

caus<strong>in</strong>g any untoward effect or<br />

adverse reactions.<br />

Scabies (Sk<strong>in</strong> diseases) is very<br />

common sk<strong>in</strong> disease found <strong>in</strong><br />

urban population <strong>of</strong> Gadap town<br />

area or Karachi, Pakistan. Sultan<br />

Ayaz et al (2 4 ) has expla<strong>in</strong>ed <strong>the</strong><br />

safety and efficacy <strong>of</strong> herbal coded<br />

medic<strong>in</strong>e, ScaNeem (Herbal coded<br />

medic<strong>in</strong>e), for <strong>the</strong> treatment <strong>of</strong><br />

scabies. The test drug was found to<br />

be an economical, safe and<br />

effective <strong>in</strong> treatment <strong>of</strong> scabies.<br />

Infertility is a very common<br />

medical problem associated with<br />

male person. Rajeev Kumar et at<br />

(2 5 )<br />

has reported <strong>the</strong> use <strong>of</strong> herbo -<br />

m<strong>in</strong>eral supplement – Addyzoa®<br />

(Charak Pharmaceuticals, Mumbai<br />

India conta<strong>in</strong>s Withania somnifera<br />

and Emblica <strong>of</strong>fic<strong>in</strong>alis as its<br />

pr<strong>in</strong>cipal constituent) <strong>in</strong> men with<br />

idiopathic<br />

oligoas<strong>the</strong>noteratospermia (iOATs).<br />

The study concluded that treatment<br />

with Addyzoa is effective <strong>in</strong><br />

improv<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> semen quality by<br />

<strong>in</strong>creas<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> sperm count and<br />

sperm motility <strong>in</strong> men with iOATs<br />

after 3 months <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>rapy. There<br />

was no change <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> sperm<br />

concentrations, ROS, DFI or TAD<br />

levels.<br />

Ajit vaze (2 6 ) has described <strong>the</strong> use<br />

<strong>of</strong> Addyzoa herbo-m<strong>in</strong>eral<br />

formulation <strong>in</strong> oligospermia <strong>in</strong><br />

comparison with Ubiqu<strong>in</strong>one<br />

Volume 3, Issue 3, May − June 2013<br />

(Coenzyme Q 10). A double-bl<strong>in</strong>d,<br />

randomized controlled trial was<br />

conducted and study concluded that<br />

treatment with Addyzoa is effective<br />

<strong>in</strong> improv<strong>in</strong>g semen quality by<br />

<strong>in</strong>creas<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> sperm count and<br />

sperm motilit y. The results are<br />

comparable with that <strong>of</strong><br />

Ubiqu<strong>in</strong>one on semen parameters.<br />

Lauha bhasma is <strong>the</strong> most widely<br />

used herbo-m<strong>in</strong>eral formulation<br />

used <strong>in</strong> iron deficiency anemia.<br />

Verma P. R. P. and Prasad (2 7 ) have<br />

reported <strong>the</strong> use <strong>of</strong> lauha bahsma <strong>in</strong><br />

anemia. It is better absorbed <strong>in</strong> GIT<br />

and devoid <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> usual side effects<br />

associated with adm<strong>in</strong>istration <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> allopathic iron preparation.<br />

Pattonder R. K. et al<br />

(2 8 )<br />

has<br />

reported <strong>the</strong> standardization and<br />

quality control <strong>of</strong> herbo -m<strong>in</strong>eral<br />

drug Agnimantha Bhavita<br />

Shilajatu- ABS (conta<strong>in</strong>s<br />

Agnimantha and Shilajatu) and<br />

Trivrit Yukta Navaka Guggulu-<br />

TYNG (conta<strong>in</strong>s Shunthi, Maricha,<br />

Pippali, Haritaki, Vibhitaki,<br />

Amalaki, Chitrak, Nagarmotha,<br />

Vayavidanga, Suddha Gugguluand<br />

Trivrita). Both ABS and TYNG<br />

were prepared us<strong>in</strong>g au<strong>the</strong>ntic raw<br />

materials and subjected for<br />

physicochemical analysis which<br />

provides objective parameters to<br />

fix up <strong>the</strong> standards for quality<br />

control <strong>of</strong> f<strong>in</strong>ished drugs.<br />

Pawar R. K. and et al<br />

(2 9 )<br />

has<br />

reported <strong>the</strong> physic-chemical<br />

standardization and development <strong>of</strong><br />

HPTLC method for <strong>the</strong><br />

determ<strong>in</strong>ation <strong>of</strong> Plumbag<strong>in</strong> <strong>in</strong><br />

120 | P a g e<br />

http://www.ijpi.org


INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF<br />

REVIEW ARTICLE<br />

PHARMACEUTICAL INNOVATIONS ISSN 2249-1031<br />

Kalmegh Navayasa Loha. The<br />

proposed HPLC method is simple,<br />

rapid, accurate, reproducible,<br />

selective and economic and can be<br />

used for rout<strong>in</strong>e quality control<br />

analysis <strong>of</strong> Kalmegh Navayasa loha<br />

powder.<br />

<strong>Herbo</strong>-m<strong>in</strong>eral formulation showed<br />

remarkable improvement <strong>in</strong> quality<br />

<strong>of</strong> life <strong>of</strong> various cancer patients<br />

who have been found to be<br />

refractory or poor responders to<br />

modern chemo<strong>the</strong>rapy and radiation<br />

treatment. Jayawardhane N. D. N.<br />

et al (3 0 ) has stated herbo-m<strong>in</strong>eral<br />

treatment as an adjuvant <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

treatment <strong>of</strong> Hepatocellular<br />

carc<strong>in</strong>oma (HCC) patient. <strong>Herbo</strong> -<br />

m<strong>in</strong>eral formulations (Hemabhraka,<br />

Tamra S<strong>in</strong>doora, Vanda Bhasma,<br />

Manikya pisti etc) are safe, cheap<br />

and effective <strong>in</strong> management <strong>of</strong><br />

HCC and have developed a new<br />

cl<strong>in</strong>ical application <strong>in</strong> treatment <strong>of</strong><br />

Cancer.<br />

Saba Sheikh et al (3 1 ) has reported a<br />

novel herbo-m<strong>in</strong>eral formulation<br />

Las 01 (which conta<strong>in</strong>s a number <strong>of</strong><br />

herbs and different types <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>in</strong>organic m<strong>in</strong>erals like mercury),<br />

to be effective as a potent<br />

anticancer drug <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> human cell<br />

l<strong>in</strong>es, <strong>the</strong> MCF-7 and Hela cancer<br />

cell l<strong>in</strong>es. It is devoid <strong>of</strong> toxicity<br />

both <strong>in</strong> animals as well as human<br />

which is <strong>the</strong> ma<strong>in</strong> drawback <strong>of</strong><br />

chemo<strong>the</strong>rapeutic agents used <strong>in</strong><br />

modern system <strong>of</strong> medic<strong>in</strong>e.<br />

Badari Nath and Madhusudhana<br />

Chetty (3 2 ) have studied <strong>the</strong> effect<br />

<strong>of</strong> a herbo-m<strong>in</strong>eral tablet<br />

Volume 3, Issue 3, May − June 2013<br />

(conta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g green tea aqueous<br />

extract and Sodium selenite) for<br />

chemoprevention <strong>of</strong> lung cancer <strong>in</strong><br />

tobacco severe adductors. The<br />

prepared tablets meet <strong>the</strong><br />

Pharacopoeial requirements and are<br />

more comfortable <strong>in</strong> use.<br />

Hypertension (High blood pressure)<br />

is a world‟s lead<strong>in</strong>g contributory<br />

case <strong>of</strong> death. It has estimated to<br />

have caused 7.6 million premature<br />

deaths and contributed to 92<br />

million disability adjusted life<br />

years worldwide <strong>in</strong> 2001. Ruchika<br />

Nanda et al (3 3 ) has found <strong>the</strong> use <strong>of</strong><br />

herbo-m<strong>in</strong>eral<br />

medic<strong>in</strong>e<br />

Rakatchaphar (conta<strong>in</strong>s Sarpganha,<br />

Shankhpushpi, Jatamansi, Jahar<br />

Mohra khatai Pishti, Moti Pishti<br />

and Ras s<strong>in</strong>door) <strong>in</strong> essential<br />

hypertension. It has <strong>of</strong>fered an<br />

efficacious and safe comb<strong>in</strong>ation <strong>of</strong><br />

natural product available for<br />

treatment <strong>of</strong> hypertension.<br />

Non-<strong>in</strong>sul<strong>in</strong> diabetes mellitus is<br />

one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> major diseases speared<br />

worldwide and over 85% <strong>of</strong><br />

diabetes mellitus is associated with<br />

high <strong>in</strong>cidence <strong>of</strong> mortalit y and<br />

morbidity. Maji D. and S<strong>in</strong>gh A. K.<br />

(3 4 )<br />

has reported a D-400<br />

herbom<strong>in</strong>eral preparation (conta<strong>in</strong>s<br />

Eugenia jambulana, Pterocarpus<br />

marsupium, Ficus glo merulata,<br />

Gymnema sylvestre, Momordica<br />

charantia, Ocimum sanctum and<br />

Shilajeet) is effective <strong>in</strong> treatment<br />

<strong>of</strong> Diabetes mellitus. They have<br />

studied <strong>the</strong> effect <strong>of</strong> D-400 on<br />

blood sugar level, serum<br />

cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL,<br />

121 | P a g e<br />

http://www.ijpi.org


INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF<br />

REVIEW ARTICLE<br />

PHARMACEUTICAL INNOVATIONS ISSN 2249-1031<br />

HDL, blood urea, serum creat<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>e<br />

levels and <strong>the</strong> effect <strong>of</strong> long-term<br />

diabetic complications. D-400 is<br />

shown to have beneficial effects as<br />

regards <strong>the</strong> long-term complication<br />

and can serve as an important<br />

adjuvant <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> treatment <strong>of</strong><br />

diabetes.<br />

The ancient Indian (Asian)<br />

Ayurvedic medic<strong>in</strong>al system uses<br />

herbom<strong>in</strong>eral drugs to treat<br />

arthritis. Arv<strong>in</strong>d Chopra et al (3 5 )<br />

has tested RA-11 (ARTREX,<br />

MENDAR), a standardized<br />

multiplant Ayurvedic drug<br />

(Withania somnifera, Boswellia<br />

serrata, Z<strong>in</strong>giber <strong>of</strong>fic<strong>in</strong>ale, and<br />

Curcuma longa) <strong>in</strong> treatment <strong>of</strong><br />

arthritis. It has been reported that<br />

RA-11 is effective <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

symptomatic treatment <strong>of</strong><br />

osteoarthritis knees.<br />

Rasayana Tantra<br />

The word „Rasayana is composed <strong>of</strong><br />

two words „rasa‟ and „ayana. Rasa<br />

means dhatus responsible for<br />

sustenance <strong>of</strong> life. Ayana means<br />

specific measures uses for<br />

obta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g rasa and responsible for<br />

longevity. Rasayana is a well<br />

developed concept <strong>in</strong> Ayurveda.<br />

Rasayana means <strong>the</strong> augmentation<br />

<strong>of</strong> rasa, <strong>the</strong> vital fluid produced by<br />

<strong>the</strong> digestion <strong>of</strong> flood, which<br />

susta<strong>in</strong>s <strong>the</strong> body through <strong>the</strong><br />

streng<strong>the</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> dhatus<br />

(3 6 ) .<br />

The term „rasa‟ is derived from <strong>the</strong><br />

root „rasa‟ which means „to go‟.<br />

Therefore, <strong>the</strong> dhatus which always<br />

moves is called rasa. Rasayana is<br />

<strong>the</strong> medium through which <strong>the</strong> rasa<br />

Volume 3, Issue 3, May − June 2013<br />

is ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong>ed, replenished and<br />

augmented.<br />

In modern term, <strong>the</strong> study and<br />

practice <strong>of</strong> rasayana is referred as<br />

„rasavidya‟ (alchemy). Rasa<br />

ausadhis are known as metallic<br />

preparation which <strong>in</strong>cludes bhasma<br />

and s<strong>in</strong>doora. Metals like gold,<br />

silver, copper, lead, t<strong>in</strong> and iron,<br />

sand, lime and m<strong>in</strong>erals like red<br />

arsenic, germs, salts and red chalk<br />

are <strong>in</strong>dicated as drugs <strong>in</strong> Ayurveda.<br />

There are more than 200 plants<br />

mentioned <strong>in</strong> Rasashastra which<br />

uses m<strong>in</strong>eral and metals as<br />

medic<strong>in</strong>al plant or a desirable<br />

chemical property (3 6 ) .<br />

Bhasma<br />

Bhasma is an ash obta<strong>in</strong>ed by<br />

calc<strong>in</strong>ations <strong>of</strong> metals. It is a<br />

unique preparation <strong>of</strong> Ayurveda<br />

with extracts <strong>of</strong> herbs and metals <strong>in</strong><br />

comb<strong>in</strong>ation which functions best<br />

when converted from <strong>the</strong>ir orig<strong>in</strong>al<br />

metals to metal oxide forms (3 7 ) . It<br />

is prepared by calc<strong>in</strong>ations <strong>of</strong><br />

metals <strong>in</strong> a closed crucible <strong>in</strong> pits<br />

and with cow dung cakes (puta).<br />

Bhasmas are biologically produced<br />

nano-particles and are taken along<br />

with milk, butter, honey or ghee<br />

which makes <strong>the</strong>se elements easily<br />

assailable, elim<strong>in</strong>at<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir toxic<br />

effects and enhanc<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir<br />

biocompatibility (3 8 ) .<br />

Preparation <strong>of</strong> Bhasma (3 9 ) :<br />

It is prepared from purified<br />

m<strong>in</strong>erals, metals, mar<strong>in</strong>e and<br />

animal products. The process <strong>of</strong><br />

122 | P a g e<br />

http://www.ijpi.org


INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF<br />

REVIEW ARTICLE<br />

PHARMACEUTICAL INNOVATIONS ISSN 2249-1031<br />

purification is called Sodhana. It is<br />

aimed to remove harmful impurities<br />

present <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> drug or sometimes<br />

modification <strong>of</strong> undesirable<br />

physical properties <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> drugs. It<br />

helps <strong>in</strong> enhancement <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong>rapeutic action and <strong>the</strong>reby<br />

<strong>in</strong>creases <strong>the</strong> potency <strong>of</strong> drug.<br />

Sodhana is <strong>of</strong> two – Samanya<br />

sodhana applicable to a large<br />

number <strong>of</strong> metals or m<strong>in</strong>erals and<br />

Visesa sodhana applicable to<br />

certa<strong>in</strong> drugs and <strong>in</strong> certa<strong>in</strong><br />

preparation.<br />

After Sodhana, second stage is <strong>the</strong><br />

Marana which means metals and<br />

m<strong>in</strong>erals are made <strong>in</strong>to paste with<br />

various drugs and juices. It is<br />

essentially <strong>the</strong> burn<strong>in</strong>g process or<br />

calc<strong>in</strong>ation. It is subjected to fire<br />

treatment <strong>in</strong> a measured manner for<br />

reduc<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>m to ashes. The<br />

objective <strong>of</strong> do<strong>in</strong>g Marana Process<br />

is to reduce <strong>the</strong> size <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> drug to<br />

its f<strong>in</strong>est particles so that it absorbs<br />

easily <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> system and produce<br />

<strong>the</strong>ir desired effects without<br />

produc<strong>in</strong>g harmful side effects.<br />

Types <strong>of</strong> Bhasmas (4 0 ) :<br />

Bhasmas are classified based on<br />

<strong>the</strong>ir color and appearance.<br />

Scientifically <strong>the</strong>y are classified<br />

based on <strong>the</strong>ir dom<strong>in</strong>ant metal and<br />

m<strong>in</strong>eral groups, such as Rajata<br />

bhasma (silver), Tamra bhasma<br />

(copper), Loha bhasma (iron),<br />

Pravala bhasma (Shells) etc.<br />

Bhasmas are generally yellowish,<br />

black, dark, white, gray, reddish<br />

black and red, depend<strong>in</strong>g upon <strong>the</strong><br />

Volume 3, Issue 3, May − June 2013<br />

predom<strong>in</strong>ant drug as well as <strong>the</strong><br />

o<strong>the</strong>r drugs used <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> process <strong>of</strong><br />

marara. They are stored <strong>in</strong> air tight<br />

conta<strong>in</strong>er (glass or ear<strong>the</strong>n) and<br />

ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir potency <strong>in</strong>def<strong>in</strong>itely.<br />

Quality Control <strong>of</strong> Bhasma (4 1 ) :<br />

1. Nischandrika – No chandrika<br />

or metallic luster<br />

2. Rekhapurita – When taken<br />

between <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>dex f<strong>in</strong>ger and<br />

thumb, it should be so f<strong>in</strong>e as<br />

to get easily <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> f<strong>in</strong>ger<br />

l<strong>in</strong>es.<br />

3. Varitara – Small quantity is<br />

spread on cold and still<br />

water, it should float on <strong>the</strong><br />

surface.<br />

4. Apurnabhava – It should not<br />

revert to <strong>the</strong> orig<strong>in</strong>al state.<br />

SINDOORA (37) :<br />

It is more potent preparation <strong>the</strong>n<br />

bhasma and prepared by <strong>the</strong><br />

elaborate process <strong>of</strong> sublimation.<br />

The preparation <strong>of</strong> s<strong>in</strong>doora process<br />

is called kupipakwa vidhi <strong>in</strong> which<br />

sublimed m<strong>in</strong>eral obta<strong>in</strong>ed on <strong>the</strong><br />

neck <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> sublimation glass flask<br />

is called s<strong>in</strong>doora. Characteristics<br />

and preparation <strong>of</strong> s<strong>in</strong>doora is<br />

similar to Bhasma.<br />

CONCLUSION<br />

Cont<strong>in</strong>uous uses <strong>of</strong> conventional<br />

medic<strong>in</strong>es for various diseases may<br />

produces adverse actions and are an<br />

object <strong>of</strong> medical attention and thus<br />

<strong>the</strong> cause <strong>of</strong> concern. Hence<br />

alternative medic<strong>in</strong>es have become<br />

<strong>the</strong> need <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> hour. <strong>Herbo</strong> -m<strong>in</strong>eral<br />

preparations are safe <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>rapeutic<br />

123 | P a g e<br />

http://www.ijpi.org


INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF<br />

REVIEW ARTICLE<br />

PHARMACEUTICAL INNOVATIONS ISSN 2249-1031<br />

doses and absorbs easily <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

body. Bhasmas and S<strong>in</strong>doora, <strong>the</strong><br />

unique Ayurvedic preparation for<br />

cur<strong>in</strong>g diseases, can easily enter<br />

<strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> blood stream and be come<br />

more biocompatible as compare to<br />

conventional medic<strong>in</strong>es. They have<br />

developed a new era <strong>in</strong> nano -<br />

medic<strong>in</strong>e system due to its nano<br />

particles size and holistic approach<br />

towards disease.<br />

REFERENCES:<br />

1. Rangari VD. Pharmacognosy and<br />

Phytochemistry. Vol. 1. Career<br />

Publication; Dec 2008: 6-11.<br />

2. Dr. Ansari SH. Essentials <strong>of</strong><br />

Pharmacognosy. Birla publications<br />

Pvt. Ltd. 2011: 470-478.<br />

3. Payyappallimana U, Role <strong>of</strong><br />

Traditional Medic<strong>in</strong>es <strong>in</strong> Primary<br />

health Care: An overview <strong>of</strong><br />

perspectives and challenges.<br />

Yokohama Journal <strong>of</strong> Social<br />

Sciences. 2010. 14(6): 723-743.<br />

4. The Truth beh<strong>in</strong>d herbal drugs,<br />

Available onl<strong>in</strong>e on<br />

http://www.expresspharmaonl<strong>in</strong>e.c<br />

om/20060331/research02.shtml<br />

dated 3rd <strong>of</strong> March 2012.<br />

5. Bhushan P, Ashok DB and<br />

Mukund C, Ayurveda and natural<br />

products dur<strong>in</strong>g discovery. Current<br />

science. 2004; 86(6): 799-805.<br />

6. Raj S, Karthikeyan S, Gothandam<br />

KM. Ayurveda – A glance.<br />

Research <strong>in</strong> Plant Biology. 2011;<br />

1(1): 1-14.<br />

7. Robert BS, Stefanos NK, Janet P,<br />

Michael JB, David ME, Roger BD<br />

and Russell SP. Heavy metal<br />

Volume 3, Issue 3, May − June 2013<br />

content <strong>of</strong> Ayurvedic Herbal<br />

Medic<strong>in</strong>e products. JAMA.<br />

December 15 2004; 292(23): 2868-<br />

2872.<br />

8. Alwakeel SS, Microbial and Heavy<br />

metals contam<strong>in</strong>ation <strong>of</strong> Herbal<br />

Medic<strong>in</strong>es, Research Journal <strong>of</strong><br />

Microbiology. 2008; 3(12): 683-<br />

691.<br />

9. Shukla K, Ja<strong>in</strong> V. Heavy Metals <strong>in</strong><br />

Ayurvedic formulation – Safety<br />

issues. The Pharmaceutical<br />

magaz<strong>in</strong>es. Institute <strong>of</strong> Pharmacy<br />

Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University.<br />

Raipur. Dec 2006.<br />

10. Borkowski B, Contam<strong>in</strong>ation <strong>of</strong><br />

plants by heavy metals. Farm Pol.<br />

1994; 50(15): 697-710.<br />

11. Ernst E, Heavy metals <strong>in</strong> traditional<br />

Indian remedies. Eur J Cl<strong>in</strong><br />

Pharmacol. 2001; 57 (12): 891-896.<br />

12. Nogawa K, Yamada Y, Honda R,<br />

Ishizaki M, Tsuritani I, Kawano S<br />

and et al. The relationship between<br />

itai-itai disease among <strong>in</strong>habitants <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> J<strong>in</strong>zu river bas<strong>in</strong> and cadmium <strong>in</strong><br />

rice. Toxicology letters. 1983; 17 (3-<br />

4): 263-266.<br />

13. Myers GJ, Davidson PW. Does<br />

methyl mercury have a role <strong>in</strong><br />

caus<strong>in</strong>g developmental disabilities<br />

<strong>in</strong> children Environ Health<br />

Prospect. 2000;108 (3): 413-420<br />

14. Available onl<strong>in</strong>e at<br />

http://www.lenntech.com/processes<br />

/heavy/heavy-metals/heavymetals.htm<br />

dated on 3/10/12<br />

15. Nriagu JO. A Silent Epidemic <strong>of</strong><br />

Environmental Metal Poison<strong>in</strong>g<br />

Environmental Pollution. 1988; 50:<br />

139-161<br />

124 | P a g e<br />

http://www.ijpi.org


INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF<br />

REVIEW ARTICLE<br />

PHARMACEUTICAL INNOVATIONS ISSN 2249-1031<br />

16. Available onl<strong>in</strong>e at<br />

http://emedic<strong>in</strong>e.medscape.com/arti<br />

cle/814960-overview dated on<br />

3/10/12<br />

17. AM Au, R Ko, R Hsu, G Perez and<br />

Z Yang. Screen<strong>in</strong>g methods for<br />

drugs and heavy metals <strong>in</strong> Ch<strong>in</strong>ese<br />

patent medic<strong>in</strong>es. Bull Environ<br />

Contam Toxicology. 2000; 65: 112-<br />

119<br />

18. Gasser U, Klier B, Kuhn AV,<br />

Ste<strong>in</strong>h<strong>of</strong>f B. Current f<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>g on <strong>the</strong><br />

heavy metal contents <strong>in</strong> herbal drugs.<br />

Pharmeuropa Scientific Notes 1,<br />

2009: 37-50. Available onl<strong>in</strong>e at<br />

http://mbmed.com/FilePdf/HeavyMetalsPhar<br />

meuropaSN2009.pdf<br />

19. Nwoko CO, Lew M. Heavy metal<br />

contam<strong>in</strong>ation <strong>of</strong> ready to use herbal<br />

remedies <strong>in</strong> South Eastern Nigeria.<br />

Pak J Nutr. 2011; 10 (10): 959-964.<br />

20. Chan K. Some aspects <strong>of</strong> toxic<br />

contam<strong>in</strong>ants <strong>in</strong> herbal medic<strong>in</strong>es.<br />

Chemosphere. 2003; 52: 1361-1371.<br />

21. Chaudhury RR, Rafei UM.<br />

Traditional Medic<strong>in</strong>e <strong>in</strong> Asia. Kurup<br />

PNV, Ayurveda. World Helth<br />

Organization. New Delhi. 2002: 3-<br />

16.<br />

22. Prakash VB, Mukherjee A. Hepatoprotective<br />

effect <strong>of</strong> an Ayurvedic<br />

formulation Park-20 <strong>in</strong> CCl 4 <strong>in</strong>duced<br />

toxicity <strong>in</strong> rats: results <strong>of</strong> three<br />

studies. International Journal <strong>of</strong><br />

Pharma and cl<strong>in</strong>ical research. 2010;<br />

2 (1): 23-27.<br />

23. Lone AH, Ahmad T, Mohmmad A,<br />

Ahmad J. Therapeutic evaluation <strong>of</strong><br />

a Unani herbom<strong>in</strong>eral formulation <strong>in</strong><br />

chronic urticaria. Journal <strong>of</strong> Pakistan<br />

Volume 3, Issue 3, May − June 2013<br />

Association <strong>of</strong> Dermatologists. 2011;<br />

21: 33-37.<br />

24. Sultan A, Abdul H, Khan U, Halima<br />

N, Mohiudd<strong>in</strong> E, Akram M and<br />

Ibrahim MK. ScaNeem: <strong>Herbo</strong>m<strong>in</strong>eral<br />

<strong>the</strong>rapy for scabies. Journal<br />

<strong>of</strong> Medic<strong>in</strong>al Plants Research. 2011;<br />

5 (24): 5706-5712.<br />

25. Rajeev K, Vaibhav S, Monis BS,<br />

Venkatesh S and Rima D. <strong>Herbo</strong>m<strong>in</strong>eral<br />

supplementation <strong>in</strong> men with<br />

idiopathic<br />

oligoas<strong>the</strong>noteratospermia: A double<br />

bl<strong>in</strong>d randomized placebo-controlled<br />

trial. Indian Journal <strong>of</strong> Urology.<br />

2011; 27 (3): 357-362.<br />

26. Vaze A. Double bl<strong>in</strong>d comparative<br />

trial <strong>of</strong> herbo-m<strong>in</strong>eral antioxidant<br />

formulation with Ubiqu<strong>in</strong>one<br />

(coenzyme Q 10) <strong>in</strong><br />

oligoas<strong>the</strong>nospermia. Available<br />

onl<strong>in</strong>e at – www.<br />

Biogetica.com/cl<strong>in</strong>ical_research/add<br />

yzoa.pdf dated on 7 th July, 2012.<br />

27. Verma PRP, Prasad. Standardization<br />

and bioavailability <strong>of</strong> Ayurvedic<br />

drug lauha bhasma part-1 physical<br />

and chemical evaluation. Anc Sci<br />

Life. 1995; 15(2): 129-136.<br />

28. Pattonder RK, Vyas SN, Chandola<br />

HM, Harisha CR and Shukla VJ.<br />

Standardization and Quality control<br />

<strong>of</strong> herbo-m<strong>in</strong>eral drug Agnimantha<br />

Bhavita Shilajatu and Trivrit Yukta<br />

Navaka Guggulu. 2010; 2(13): 1-4.<br />

29. Pawar RK, Sharma S, S<strong>in</strong>gh KC and<br />

Sharma Rajeev KR. Physicochemical<br />

Standardization and<br />

Development <strong>of</strong> HPTLC method for<br />

<strong>the</strong> determ<strong>in</strong>ation <strong>of</strong> Plumbag<strong>in</strong> <strong>in</strong><br />

Kalmegh Navayasa Loha – An<br />

125 | P a g e<br />

http://www.ijpi.org


INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF<br />

REVIEW ARTICLE<br />

PHARMACEUTICAL INNOVATIONS ISSN 2249-1031<br />

Ayurvedic Formulation. 2011; 3(1):<br />

43-48.<br />

30. Jayawardhane NDN, De Silva<br />

RHSK, Tripathi JS, Narasimha<br />

Murthy KHHVSS, and Tiwari SK.<br />

An effective Heavy metal treatment<br />

as an adjuvant <strong>the</strong>rapy for <strong>the</strong><br />

improvement <strong>of</strong> quality <strong>of</strong> life <strong>of</strong><br />

hepatocellular carc<strong>in</strong>oma patient – A<br />

case study. IRJP. 2012; 3(7): 266-<br />

270.<br />

31. Sheikh S, Srivastava A, Tripathi R,<br />

Tripathi S, Trivedi VP and Saxena<br />

RC. Toxicity <strong>of</strong> a novel herbom<strong>in</strong>eral<br />

preparation Las01 on human<br />

cancer cell l<strong>in</strong>es and its safety pr<strong>of</strong>ile<br />

<strong>in</strong> humans and animal. Evidencebased<br />

Complementary and<br />

Alternative medic<strong>in</strong>es. 2012; 1155:<br />

1-9<br />

32. Badari Nath AV, Madhusudhana<br />

CC. “<strong>in</strong>-vivo chemo preventive<br />

study <strong>of</strong> designed <strong>Herbo</strong>-m<strong>in</strong>eral<br />

Tablet <strong>in</strong> Tobacco Smoke <strong>in</strong>duced<br />

Lung cancer Animal Model”.<br />

International Journal <strong>of</strong> PharmaTech<br />

Research. 2011; 3(1): 13-17<br />

33. Nandha R, S<strong>in</strong>gh H, Moudgill P and<br />

Kular G. A pilot study to cl<strong>in</strong>ically<br />

evaluate <strong>the</strong> role <strong>of</strong> herbo-m<strong>in</strong>eral<br />

compound “Rakatchap Har” <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

management <strong>of</strong> hypertension. AYU.<br />

2011; 32(3): 329-323<br />

34. Maji D, S<strong>in</strong>gh AK. Cl<strong>in</strong>ical trial <strong>of</strong><br />

D-400 – A herbo-m<strong>in</strong>eral<br />

preparation <strong>in</strong> diabetes mellitus,<br />

Journal <strong>of</strong> Diabetes Association <strong>of</strong><br />

India. 1995; 35(1): 1-4<br />

35. Chopra A, Lav<strong>in</strong> P, Patwardhan B,<br />

Chitre D. A 32 Week Randomized,<br />

Placebo – Controlled Cl<strong>in</strong>ical<br />

Evaluation <strong>of</strong> RA-11, an Ayurvedic<br />

Drug, on osteoarthritis <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> knees.<br />

Journal <strong>of</strong> Cl<strong>in</strong>ical Rheumatology.<br />

2004; 10(5): 236-245<br />

36. Dash and Kashyap. Basic pr<strong>in</strong>ciples<br />

<strong>of</strong> Ayurveda. Todarananda –<br />

Ayurveda saukhyam series. No. 2.<br />

Concept publish<strong>in</strong>g house. New<br />

Delhi. 61.<br />

37. Sheikh Raisuddi. Ayurvedic<br />

Bhasma, In: Scientific basis for<br />

Ayurvedic <strong>the</strong>rapies, Edited by<br />

Lakshmi Chandra Mishra. CRC<br />

Press LLC. 2004; 83-100.<br />

38. The Ayurvedic formulary <strong>of</strong> India.<br />

Part – II. The controller <strong>of</strong><br />

Publications. Civil l<strong>in</strong>es. Delhi.<br />

2000; 205-206.<br />

39. Kumar A, Nair AGC, Reddy AVR,<br />

Garg AN. Bhasmas – Unique<br />

Ayurvedic metallic-herbal<br />

preparations,<br />

chemical<br />

characterization. Biological trace<br />

element research. 2006; 109 (3):<br />

231-254.<br />

40. Paul S and Chugh A. Assess<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong><br />

role <strong>of</strong> Ayurvedic Bhasma as Ethnonano-medic<strong>in</strong>e<br />

<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Metal Based<br />

Nanomedic<strong>in</strong>e Patent Regime.<br />

Journal <strong>of</strong> Intellectual Property<br />

Rights. 2011; 16: 509-511.<br />

41. Devanathan R. Concept <strong>of</strong><br />

Bhasmikarana. International Journal<br />

<strong>of</strong> Research <strong>in</strong> Ayurveda and<br />

Pharmacy. 2011; 2 (1): 18-23.<br />

Volume 3, Issue 3, May − June 2013<br />

126 | P a g e<br />

http://www.ijpi.org


INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF<br />

REVIEW ARTICLE<br />

PHARMACEUTICAL INNOVATIONS ISSN 2249-1031<br />

Table – 1: Ayurvedic Herbal Medic<strong>in</strong>e Products Conta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g Lead, Mercury, and/or Arsenic<br />

Ayurvedic formulations Manufacturer Dosage form Metal Concentration (µg/g)<br />

Lead Mercury Arsenic<br />

Bal Chamcha Jalaram Powder 10 ND ND<br />

Bal Guti Zandu Tablet 5 ND ND<br />

Bala Sogathi Navjeevan Powder 43 28 ND<br />

Balguti Kesaria<br />

Kesari Ayurvedic Tablet 7 17600 37<br />

Pharmacy<br />

Maha Sudarshan Churna Dabur Powder 17 ND ND<br />

Maha Sudarshan Churna Zandu Tablet 40 ND ND<br />

Mahalakshmi Vilas Ras with Baidyanath Tablet 300 72100 2800<br />

Gold<br />

Navaratna Rasa<br />

Unja Ayurvedic Tablet 600 10400 60<br />

Pharmacy<br />

Shilajit Syncom Capsule 8 ND ND<br />

Abbreviations: ND = not detected (Heavy metal assay report<strong>in</strong>g levels lead > 5 µg/g, mercury ><br />

20 µg/g, and arsenic > 10 µg/g.<br />

Table- 2: The most important disasters with heavy metals<br />

Year Disasters Remarks<br />

1932 M<strong>in</strong>amata Sewage conta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g mercury is released by Chisso's chemicals works <strong>in</strong>to<br />

M<strong>in</strong>imata Bay <strong>in</strong> Japan. The mercury accumulates <strong>in</strong> sea creatures, lead<strong>in</strong>g<br />

eventually to mercury poison<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> population.<br />

1952 M<strong>in</strong>amata<br />

Syndrome<br />

In 1952, <strong>the</strong> first <strong>in</strong>cidents <strong>of</strong> mercury poison<strong>in</strong>g appear <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> population <strong>of</strong><br />

M<strong>in</strong>imata Bay <strong>in</strong> Japan, caused by consumption <strong>of</strong> fish polluted with<br />

mercury, br<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g over 500 fatalities. S<strong>in</strong>ce <strong>the</strong>n, Japan has had <strong>the</strong> strictest<br />

environmental laws <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>dustrialised world.<br />

1986 Sandoz Water used to ext<strong>in</strong>guish a major fire carries c. 30 t fungicide conta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g<br />

mercury <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> Upper Rh<strong>in</strong>e. Fish are killed over a stretch <strong>of</strong> 100 km. The<br />

shock drives many FEA projects forwards. See also "Pollution <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Rh<strong>in</strong>e at<br />

Basel / Sandoz".<br />

1998 Spanish<br />

nature<br />

reserve<br />

contam<strong>in</strong>at<br />

ed after<br />

environme<br />

ntal<br />

disaster<br />

Toxic chemicals <strong>in</strong> water from a burst dam belong<strong>in</strong>g to a m<strong>in</strong>e contam<strong>in</strong>ate<br />

<strong>the</strong> Coto de Donana nature reserve <strong>in</strong> sou<strong>the</strong>rn Spa<strong>in</strong>. C. 5 million m_ <strong>of</strong> mud<br />

conta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g sulphur, lead, copper, z<strong>in</strong>c and cadmium flow down <strong>the</strong> Rio<br />

Guadimar. Experts estimate that Europe's largest bird sanctuary, as well as<br />

Spa<strong>in</strong>'s agriculture and fisheries, will suffer permanent damage from <strong>the</strong><br />

pollution.<br />

Volume 3, Issue 3, May − June 2013<br />

127 | P a g e<br />

http://www.ijpi.org


INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF<br />

REVIEW ARTICLE<br />

PHARMACEUTICAL INNOVATIONS ISSN 2249-1031<br />

Table-3 Global Emissions <strong>of</strong> Trace Metals <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> Atmosphere, Water and Soil (<strong>in</strong> 1 000 metric<br />

tonnesyr -1 )<br />

Element Air Water Soil<br />

Arsenic 18.8 41 82<br />

Cadmium 7.6 9.4 22<br />

Chromium 30 142 896<br />

Copper 35 112 954<br />

Mercury 3.6 4.6 8.3<br />

Indium 0.02 - -<br />

Manganese 38 262 1670<br />

Molybdenum 3.3 11 88<br />

Nickel 56 113 325<br />

Lead 332 138 796<br />

Antimony 3.5 18 26<br />

Selenium 3.8 41 41<br />

T<strong>in</strong> 6.4 - -<br />

Thallium 5.1 - -<br />

Vanadium 86 12 132<br />

Z<strong>in</strong>k 132 226 1372<br />

Table-4: Typical Presentation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Most Commonly Encountered Metals and Their<br />

Treatment<br />

Metal Acute Chronic Toxic Concentration Treatment<br />

Arsenic<br />

Lead<br />

Mercury<br />

Nickel<br />

Nausea, vomit<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

"rice-water" diarrhea,<br />

MODS, LoQTS,<br />

pa<strong>in</strong>ful neuropathy<br />

Nausea, vomit<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

encephalopathy<br />

(headache, seizures,<br />

ataxia, obtundation)<br />

Elemental (<strong>in</strong>haled):<br />

fever, vomit<strong>in</strong>g,<br />

diarrhea, ALI;<br />

Inorganic salts , caustic<br />

gastroenteritis<br />

Dermatitis; nickel<br />

carbonyl: myocarditis,<br />

ALI, encephalopathy<br />

Diabetes,<br />

hypopigmentation/<br />

hyperkeratosis, cancer:<br />

lung, bladder, sk<strong>in</strong>,<br />

Encephalopathy,<br />

anemia, abdom<strong>in</strong>al pa<strong>in</strong>,<br />

nephropathy, foot-drop/<br />

wrist-drop<br />

Nausea, metallic taste,<br />

g<strong>in</strong>givo-stomatitis,<br />

tremor, neuras<strong>the</strong>nia,<br />

nephrotic syndrome;<br />

hypersensitivity<br />

Occupational (<strong>in</strong>haled):<br />

pulmonary fibrosis,<br />

reduced sperm count,<br />

nasopharyngeal tumors<br />

24-h ur<strong>in</strong>e:<br />

≥50 µg/L ur<strong>in</strong>e, or<br />

100 µg/g creat<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>e<br />

Pediatric: symptoms<br />

or [Pb] ≥45 µ/dL<br />

Adult: symptoms or<br />

[Pb] ≥70 µ/dL<br />

Background exposure<br />

"normal" limits:<br />

10 µg/L (whole<br />

blood); 20 µg/L (24-h<br />

ur<strong>in</strong>e)<br />

Excessive exposure:<br />

≥8 µg/L (blood)<br />

Severe poison<strong>in</strong>g:<br />

≥500 µg/L (8-h ur<strong>in</strong>e)<br />

BAL (acute,<br />

symptomatic)<br />

Succimer<br />

DMPS (Europe)<br />

BAL<br />

CaNa 2 EDTA<br />

Succimer<br />

BAL<br />

Succimer<br />

DMPS (Europe)<br />

*No accepted chelation regimen; contact a medical toxicologist regard<strong>in</strong>g treatment plan.<br />

MODS - multi-organ dysfunction syndrome; LoQTS - long QT syndrome; ALI - acute lung <strong>in</strong>jury; DMPS<br />

- 2,3-dimercapto-1-propane-sulfonic acid; CaNa 2 EDTA - edetate calcium disodium.<br />

*<br />

Volume 3, Issue 3, May − June 2013<br />

128 | P a g e<br />

http://www.ijpi.org


INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF<br />

REVIEW ARTICLE<br />

PHARMACEUTICAL INNOVATIONS ISSN 2249-1031<br />

Table – 5: List <strong>of</strong> <strong>Herbo</strong>-m<strong>in</strong>eral formulations used <strong>in</strong> various common disorders.<br />

S. N. <strong>Herbo</strong>-m<strong>in</strong>eral formulations Common disease<br />

1. Godanti Bhasma Cold, Cough, Fever<br />

2. Shankh Bhasma Acidity, Ulcer<br />

3. Yashad Bhasma Myopia, Diabetes<br />

4. Trushanadi loha Anemia<br />

5. Loha bhasma Anemia<br />

6. Navayasa loha Anemia<br />

7. Arogyavardh<strong>in</strong>i vatti Hepatitis, Diabetes, Sk<strong>in</strong> diseases, obesity<br />

8. Tribhuvan kirti Rasa Fever<br />

9. Shvass kuthar Rasa Asthma<br />

10. Swarna makherdhwaj Rasayan Diabetes, fertility<br />

11. Sutshekhar Rasa Acidity<br />

12. Hirdyarnava Rasa Heart diseases<br />

13. Laxmivias Rasa Respiratory track disorders, common cold<br />

14. Chandra prabha vatti Diabetes, Ur<strong>in</strong>ary track disorders<br />

15. Saptamrata lauha Eye disorders<br />

Volume 3, Issue 3, May − June 2013<br />

129 | P a g e<br />

http://www.ijpi.org

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!