Kasis Bhasma
Kasis Bhasma is a bhasma, a mineral or metal preparation reduced to ash by repeated calcination.
| Substance type | Mineral or metal preparation, not a plant |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Kasis Bhasma, KasisBhasma |
Names and identification
| Language | Name |
|---|---|
| English | 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 from processing media
How does it work?
- Enhanced iron supplementation through calcined ferrous sulfate, supporting hemoglobin synthesis
- Deepana (appetite stimulation) and Pachana (digestive fire strengthening) through iron-mediated metabolic enzyme activation in the gastrointestinal tract
- Hepatoprotective activity, with antioxidant activity and cellular membrane stabilization, has been reported in studies of CCl4-induced liver toxicity.
- Traditionally described as Raktavardhaka (blood-enhancing), attributed to its iron content
Which traditional uses are supported by research?
These summaries come from the source notes, which do not name the studies behind them.
- Iron-deficiency anemia (Pandu Roga): traditionally used for Pandu Roga. Clinical evaluations have reported improved hemoglobin and ferritin levels without the GI side effects of conventional iron.
- Liver disorders: traditionally used for liver disorders. Animal studies have reported hepatoprotective activity against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity.
- Digestive disorders (Agnimandya, Ajirna): traditionally used for its Deepana-Pachana properties. Clinical observations have reported improved appetite and digestion.
What do recent studies show?
No study for this section could be traced to a published paper. An absence here means we could not identify the source, not that no work exists.
Recent safety updates
- PROCESSING: Classical texts hold that calcined Kasis Bhasma is less toxic than unpurified Kasisa, and that Shodhana and Marana are essential for safety.
- 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
- Starting material: Ferrous sulfate (Kasisa, green vitriol), converted to iron oxide by calcination
- Iron (Fe): 62-92% in finished Kasisa Bhasma by atomic absorption spectroscopy across four batches (Rajput D, Tekale GS, Patgiri BJ 2011. Comparative study on Kasisa Bhasma prepared by two different methods. Ancient Science of Life. PMID 23284208)
Dosage forms and preparation
Dosage Forms: Bhasma
Standard Dosage: 125–250 mg
Optimal Timing: With honey or Triphala Kwatha; after meals to reduce GI irritation
Storage: Airtight, moisture-proof container (hygroscopic)
Marker Compounds: Iron oxide (Fe2O3), Sulfur compounds, Trace minerals
Vehicle (Anupana): Honey, Triphala Kwatha, or Mandura Bhasma combination
Reviewed by Dr. Awadesh Pratap Singh, BAMS, on 11 October 2026. What that review covered.
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