# Kasis Bhasma

> Kasis Bhasma is a bhasma, a mineral or metal preparation reduced to ash by repeated calcination. An absence here means we could not identify the source, not that no work exists. SAFER THAN RAW FORM: Calcined Kasis Bhasma is nontoxic compared to unpurified Kasisa.

## Names and identification

| Language | Name |
|----------|------|
| English | [Kasis Bhasma](/herb/kasis-bhasma/) |

## Key Phytochemical Constituents

- Iron oxide (from calcination of ferrous sulfate)
- Residual sulfate compounds
- Trace copper and zinc
- Organic compounds from herbal processing
- Calcium and [magnesium](/glossary/compounds-l-o/#magnesium) from processing media

## How does it work?

- Enhanced iron supplementation through calcined ferrous sulfate with higher bioavailability than raw form, supporting hemoglobin synthesis without GI distress
- Deepana (appetite stimulation) and Pachana (digestive fire strengthening) through iron-mediated metabolic enzyme activation in the gastrointestinal tract
- [Hepatoprotective](/reference/hepatoprotective/) action through [antioxidant](/reference/antioxidant/) activity and cellular membrane stabilization, protecting liver cells from toxic damage (validated against CCl4 toxicity)
- Raktavardhaka (blood-enhancing) action through combined iron provision and improved intestinal absorption, addressing anemia at multiple levels

## Which traditional uses are supported by research?

- Iron-deficiency anemia (Pandu Roga): Improved hemoglobin and ferritin levels confirmed in clinical evaluations without GI side effects of conventional iron
- Liver disorders: Hepatoprotective activity against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity validated in animal models
- Digestive disorders (Agnimandya, Ajirna): Deepana-Pachana properties confirmed through improved appetite and digestion in clinical observations

## What do recent clinical trials show?



*3 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

- SAFER THAN RAW FORM: Calcined [Kasis Bhasma](/herb/kasis-bhasma/) is nontoxic compared to unpurified Kasisa. Shodhana and Marana processes essential for safety.
- NO GI SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach discomfort, breathing difficulty, constipation, and diarrhea common with ferrous sulfate are NOT reported with [Kasis Bhasma](/herb/kasis-bhasma/) use
- PREGNANCY WARNING: POSSIBLY UNSAFE due to emmenagogue effects. Not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- LONG-TERM CAUTION: Like all iron preparations, prolonged unsupervised use may cause iron overload. Periodic monitoring recommended.

## What is it made of?

### Mineral/Elemental Profile

- **Iron sulfate (FeSO4):** Major component (green vitriol)
- **Iron (Fe):** ~20%
- **Sulfur (S):** ~11%

**Analytical Methods:** XRD, ICP-OES, FTIR

## Dosage forms and preparation

**Dosage Forms:** Bhasma

**Standard Dosage:** 125–250 mg

**Bioavailability:** Good; iron sulfate converted to bioavailable iron oxide nanoparticles

**Optimal Timing:** With honey or [Triphala](/herb/triphala/) Kwatha; after meals to reduce GI irritation

**Standardized Extract:** Calcined green vitriol (ferrous sulfate) bhasma

**Shelf Life:** Indefinite

**Storage:** Airtight, moisture-proof container (hygroscopic)

**Marker Compounds:** Iron oxide (Fe2O3), Sulfur compounds, Trace minerals

**Quality Parameters:** Iron content >50%, free sulfate <1%, standard bhasma tests, particle size <100 nm

**Vehicle (Anupana):** Honey, [Triphala](/herb/triphala/) Kwatha, or [Mandura Bhasma](/herb/mandura-bhasma/) combination

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Canonical version of this page: https://nighantu.ageayurveda.com/herb/kasis-bhasma/

## Sources

- Amidha Ayurveda Herb Database (700+ herbs, CC-BY-4.0)
- Web research (clinical trials, WHO monographs, safety databases)
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India

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.