Ayurvedic Bhasma: the most ancient application of nanomedicine

Introduction Concept of reduction in particle size of metals is prevailing since Charaka Samhita (1500 BC). For a metallic preparation of Lauhadi Rasayana, iron is heated up to red hot and quenched in some liquid media immediately until flakes of iron become in fine powder form1. Nanotechnology2 has ability to work at these levels, to generate larger structures with new molecular organization. Bhasmas, which are unique Ayurvedic metallic/mineral preparations, treated with herbal juices or decoction, and exposed for certain quantum of heat as per Puta system of Ayurveda are known in Indian subcontinent since seventh century AD and widely recommended for treatment of a variety of ailments3. Bhasmas are claimed to be biologically produced nanoparticles (NPs), prescribed with several other medicines of Ayurveda. This study reviews Ayurvedic Bhasma as most ancient application of nanomedicine.