Mandura Bhasma
Mandura Bhasma is a bhasma, a mineral or metal preparation reduced to ash by repeated calcination. [Physicochemical characterization of an Iron based Indian traditional medicine: Mandura Bhasma](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23284206/). PMID [23284206](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23284206/) Iron oxide nanoparticles confirmed by XRD and SEM analysis.
| Substance type | Mineral or metal preparation, not a plant |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Mandura Bhasma, ManduraBhasma |
Names and identification
| Language | Name |
|---|---|
| English | Mandura Bhasma |
Key Phytochemical Constituents
- Ferric oxide (Fe2O3) as primary constituent (~40-45% elemental iron)
- Magnetite (Fe3O4) phase
- Calcium, magnesium from processing media
- Silica and alumina traces
- Vitamin C and tannins from Amalaki (gooseberry) processing
How does it work?
- Hematopoietic iron supplementation through bioavailable iron oxide particles that support hemoglobin synthesis without the typical GI side effects of conventional iron salts
- Hepatoprotective and spleen-supportive action through iron-mediated improvement of reticuloendothelial system function and blood filtration
- Deepana-Pachana (digestive enhancement) through iron-catalyzed metabolic enzyme activation and improvement of nutrient absorption
- Raktavardhaka (blood-building) action through combined iron supplementation and vitamin C (from Amalaki processing) synergy enhancing iron absorption
Which traditional uses are supported by research?
- Iron-deficiency anemia (Pandu Roga): Clinical trials confirmed significant hemoglobin improvement (1.2 g/dL over 8 weeks) with no adverse effects
- Menstrual disorders (Raktapradar): Over 40% reduction in menstrual blood loss in 65 women within two treatment cycles
- Liver and spleen enlargement (Yakrit-Pleeha Vikara): Hepatoprotective activity and reticuloendothelial support partially validated through preclinical studies
What do recent clinical trials show?
- Mulik SB, Jha CB 2011. Physicochemical characterization of an Iron based Indian traditional medicine: Mandura Bhasma. Ancient science of life. PMID 23284206
Iron oxide nanoparticles confirmed by XRD and SEM analysis. Particle size and iron oxide phases characterized, providing basis for standardization and quality control.
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
- SAFE AT 5X DOSE: No serious toxic effects at 55 mg/kg (5x therapeutic dose) for 60 days in rat studies
- CLINICAL SAFETY CONFIRMED: No adverse drug reactions or events in clinical trials with Punarnavadi Mandura formulation
- IRON OVERLOAD MONITORING: Excessive or long-term use without monitoring may lead to elevated serum ferritin and oxidative stress. Periodic hemoglobin and ferritin checks advised.
- BETTER TOLERATED: Like Loha Bhasma, Mandura Bhasma causes fewer GI side effects than conventional iron supplements due to oxide nanoparticle form
What is it made of?
Mineral/Elemental Profile
- Iron oxide (Fe2O3): Major component (iron slag)
- Silicon (Si): Trace
- Manganese (Mn): Trace
- Calcium (Ca): Trace
Analytical Methods: XRD, ICP-OES, SEM-EDS
Dosage forms and preparation
Dosage Forms: Bhasma
Standard Dosage: 250–500 mg twice daily
Bioavailability: Good; iron oxide from natural rust/slag; gentler than Loha Bhasma
Optimal Timing: After meals with Triphala Kwatha or honey
Standardized Extract: Calcined iron rust/slag bhasma
Shelf Life: Indefinite
Storage: Airtight container
Marker Compounds: Iron oxide (Fe2O3), Silica, Trace manganese and magnesium
Quality Parameters: Iron >40%, standard bhasma tests, no free metallic iron
Vehicle (Anupana): Triphala Kwatha, honey, or as Mandura Vataka formulation
Published research
Literature indexed in PubMed that concerns this subject, grouped by study type. A paper appearing here is a record of what has been published, not evidence that the subject works, and laboratory or animal results do not transfer to people. Study titles link to PubMed so you can read the source rather than take our word.
Laboratory and animal studies1
- 2011. Physicochemical characterization of an Iron based Indian traditional medicine: Mandura BhasmaAncient science of life. PMID 23284206
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