SEM-EDAX and ICP-OES analysis of Rasa Bhasma along with its Physico-chemical characterization

Bhasma is a Herbo-Mineral preparation mentioned by Shri Anantadeva Soori in his textbook Rasa Chintamani in the context of Parada Marana. Owing to its Hepato-protective indication, it was prepared as per the conventional method and was subjected to various physico-chemical parameters, assessment of inorganic elements, SEM EDAX and ICP-OES for the determination of Mercury. Results revealed that Rasa Bhasma was tasteless, grey coloured smooth powder having alkaline nature insoluble in water and alcohol but sparingly soluble in Chloroform with values total ash-88.10%, acid insoluble ash-83.03%, loss on drying-0.675%. Amongst inorganic elements, sodium, chlorides and sulphates were found to be present in the Bhasma. SEM/EDAX spectra show the results of Mercury, Sulphur, Carbon, Oxygen, in various spectrums. The % of Mercury is maximum i.e., between 65-75% each. Sulphur varies from 25-30%. Carbon is rich in quantity varying from 25-30%. In all the Spectrums, Mercury is associated with Sulphur, forming a major peak and small Mercurial peaks are also seen along with small peaks of carbon. 98.3% mg/kg Mercury was found to be present in the Rasa Bhasma by ICP-OES analysis. Physico-chemical parameters of Rasa Bhasma were found to be within normal limits concluding that the prepared Rasa Bhasma was of standard quality.