Madhu Mandur
Madhu Mandur is a bhasma, a mineral or metal preparation reduced to ash by repeated calcination. It is traditionally used for iron deficiency anemia (Pandu Roga), including anemia in children. Clinical studies have reported improvement in hemoglobin, especially when it was given with honey. A clinical evaluation in children reported an increase in hemoglobin with a combination of honey and Mandur Bhasma.
| Substance type | Mineral or metal preparation, not a plant |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Madhu Mandur, MadhuMandur |
| Pharmacopoeia status | Mandura Bhasma is listed in the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API) with standardized monograph; preparation methods and quality parameters specified; widely recognized as a classical Ayurvedic hematinic |
Names and identification
| Language | Name |
|---|---|
| English | Madhu Mandur |
Where is it described in the classical texts?
Charaka Samhita, Pandu Roga Chikitsa; Bhaishajya Ratnavali; Rasa Tarangini; the concept of Mandura processing is described across multiple classical texts
How does it work?
- Mandura (iron rust/Fe2O3) provides iron in oxide form that is converted to bioavailable nano-particulate iron through classical calcination (Marana) process
- Honey (Madhu) is traditionally regarded as a bioenhancer for iron absorption; also has Yogavahi (carrier) properties enhancing tissue penetration
- Triphala decoction used in processing provides vitamin C for iron absorption, antioxidant protection, and Shodhana (purification) of the iron rust
- Gomutra (cow’s urine) in purification contains uric acid and enzymes that aid in conversion of toxic iron forms to safer oxide nanoparticles
- Combined Deepana-Pachana (digestive fire enhancing) and Rakta-Vardhaka (blood building) action is traditionally described as addressing both the cause (poor digestion/absorption) and effect (low hemoglobin) of anemia
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 this condition. Clinical studies have reported improvement in hemoglobin, especially when it was given with honey.
- Anemia in children: traditionally used for anemia in children. A clinical evaluation reported an increase in hemoglobin with a combination of honey and Mandur Bhasma.
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
- Mandura must undergo proper Shodhana (purification with Triphala, Gomutra, etc.) to remove toxic contaminants from raw iron rust
- Iron overload risk with chronic unsupervised use; particularly important to monitor in patients with hereditary hemochromatosis or thalassemia
- Quality control essential - raw iron rust may contain variable heavy metal contaminants (lead, cadmium); only standardized preparations from licensed manufacturers should be used
- API mandates strict limits on Loha percentage and permissible heavy metal contaminants in Mandura Bhasma preparations
What is it made of?
Mineral/Elemental Profile
- Primary component: Mineral-derived preparation
- Note: Composition varies by specific preparation method
Dosage forms and preparation
Dosage Forms: Vati/tablet
Standard Dosage: 250–500 mg twice daily
Optimal Timing: After meals with buttermilk or Triphala Kwatha
Storage: Airtight container
Marker Compounds: Iron oxide (from Mandura), Polyphenols from multiple herbs, Trace minerals
Vehicle (Anupana): Buttermilk, Triphala Kwatha, or honey
Reviewed by Dr. Awadesh Pratap Singh, BAMS, on 11 October 2026. What that review covered.
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