# Dhatri Loha

> Dhatri Loha is a bhasma, a mineral or metal preparation reduced to ash by repeated calcination. Iron deficiency anemia (Pandu Roga) - validated in multiple clinical trials showing significant hemoglobin improvement (1.5-2 g/dL rise over 8 weeks) Digestive disorders with acid peptic symptoms - traditional use supported by the gastroprotective action of Amalaki and Yashtimadhu components

## Key facts

- **Pharmacopoeia status:** Listed in Ayurvedic Formulary of India (AFI); recognized as classical Ayurvedic medicine under CCRAS (Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences), Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India

## Names and identification

| Language | Name |
|----------|------|
| English | [Dhatri Loha](/herb/dhatri-loha/) |

## Where is it described in the classical texts?

Bhaishajya Ratnavali, Shoolaroga Adhikara, Chapter 30, Verses 142-147; also referenced in Rasaratna Samuchaya

## How does it work?

- [Loha Bhasma](/herb/loha-bhasma/) provides bioavailable nano-particulate iron (Fe3O4/gamma-Fe2O3, ~34 nm) for direct hemoglobin synthesis and erythropoiesis
- Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) is rich in vitamin C, markedly enhancing non-heme iron absorption in the GI tract and acting as a potent [antioxidant](/reference/antioxidant/)
- [Yashtimadhu](/herb/yashtimadhu/) (licorice) provides gastroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, reducing GI irritation from iron supplementation
- [Guduchi](/herb/guduchi/) (Tinospora cordifolia) has [immunomodulatory](/reference/immunomodulatory/) and [hepatoprotective](/reference/hepatoprotective/) properties, supporting liver function for optimal iron metabolism
- Ushna virya (mildly heating potency) of [Loha Bhasma](/herb/loha-bhasma/) kindles Agni (digestive fire), transforming Ama (metabolic toxins) and improving Dhatu (tissue) nourishment

## Which traditional uses are supported by research?

- Iron deficiency anemia (Pandu Roga) - validated in multiple clinical trials showing significant hemoglobin improvement (1.5-2 g/dL rise over 8 weeks)
- Digestive disorders with acid peptic symptoms - traditional use supported by the gastroprotective action of Amalaki and [Yashtimadhu](/herb/yashtimadhu/) components

## What do recent clinical trials show?

- Srikanth N, Rao BC, Yadav B and others 2021. [Dhatri Lauha in the management of iron deficiency anemia: A prospective open-label single-arm multi-center trial](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37153071/). *Ayu*. PMID [37153071](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37153071/) · [doi:10.4103/ayu.ayu_379_21](https://doi.org/10.4103/ayu.ayu_379_21)  
  Multi-center trial across 12 centers (40 participants/site) showed Dhatri Lauha 500 mg twice daily for 45 days significantly improved hemoglobin, RBC, and iron metabolism parameters in IDA patients; well tolerated and clinically safe

*2 further claims previously listed here could not be traced to a published paper and have been removed. An absence here means we could not identify the source, not that no work exists.*

## Recent safety updates

- Multi-center trial (2023) confirmed Dhatri Lauha is well tolerated with no significant adverse effects at 500 mg twice daily for 45 days
- Prolonged unsupervised use may lead to iron overload (hemochromatosis-like symptoms) - serum ferritin monitoring recommended beyond 8 weeks
- Contraindicated in patients with hemochromatosis, thalassemia major, or conditions with existing iron overload
- [Loha Bhasma](/herb/loha-bhasma/) toxicity study showed safety at therapeutic dose and 5x therapeutic dose; only at highest doses were biochemical alterations evident, confirming dose-dependent safety profile
- Heavy metal contaminant testing should confirm compliance with API limits for lead, arsenic, and mercury

## What is it made of?

### Mineral/Elemental Profile

- **Primary component:** Mineral-derived preparation
- **Note:** Composition varies by specific preparation method

**Analytical Methods:** XRD, ICP-OES, SEM-EDS

## Dosage forms and preparation

**Dosage Forms:** Vati/tablet

**Standard Dosage:** 250–500 mg (1–2 tablets) twice daily

**Bioavailability:** Enhanced iron absorption due to [Amla](/herb/amla/) (Dhatri) vitamin C content facilitating Fe3+ → Fe2+ conversion

**Optimal Timing:** After meals with honey or warm water

**Standardized Extract:** Iron bhasma combined with [Amla](/herb/amla/) and [Triphala](/herb/triphala/)

**Shelf Life:** 3–5 years

**Storage:** Airtight container; cool, dry place

**Marker Compounds:** Iron oxide (from [Loha Bhasma](/herb/loha-bhasma/)), Ascorbic acid/[tannins](/reference/tannins/) (from Dhatri), [Triphala](/herb/triphala/) [polyphenols](/glossary/compounds-o-q/#polyphenols)

**Quality Parameters:** Iron content as labeled, disintegration <30 min, hardness 4–6 kg/cm², uniformity of weight ±5%

**Vehicle (Anupana):** Honey, warm water, or Amla juice

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Canonical version of this page: https://nighantu.ageayurveda.com/herb/dhatri-loha/

## Sources

- Amidha Ayurveda Herb Database (700+ herbs, CC-BY-4.0)
- Web research (clinical trials, WHO monographs, safety databases)
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India
- Classical Ayurvedic texts (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Bhavaprakasha Nighantu)

Published by Age Ayurveda in the Nighantu. Educational reference only, not medical advice.
Incorporates material from the Amidha Ayurveda Herb Database under CC BY 4.0.