Masi
Masi is a substance used in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Iron oxide nanoparticles in Masi (ink/iron-based Bhasma) are reported to show enhanced absorption compared to conventional iron supplements (UNSOURCED). Particle size (typically 30-100 nm in properly prepared Bhasma) facilitates paracellular and transcellular absorption.
Names and identification
| Language | Name |
|---|---|
| English | Masi |
Ayurvedic pharmacology (Dravyaguna)
| Property | Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Rasa (Taste) | Kashaya, Katu | Primary taste |
| Guna (Quality) | Laghu, Ruksha | Physical quality |
| Virya (Potency) | Ushna | Heating/Cooling effect |
| Vipaka (Post-digestive) | Katu | Post-digestive effect |
Dosage forms and preparation
Dosage Forms: Bhasma (calcined ash - primary form), Churna (with Bhasma), Capsules, Tablets, Combined with honey or ghee as Anupana
Standard Dosage: 125-500 mg Bhasma per day with appropriate Anupana (honey, ghee, or buttermilk); typically in divided doses twice daily
Optimal Timing: Before meals with honey for Kapha conditions; after meals with ghee for Vata conditions; with buttermilk for Pitta conditions and iron supplementation
Storage: Store in airtight glass containers. Protect from moisture. Can be stored at room temperature. Avoid plastic containers as Bhasma may interact with polymers. Traditional storage in glass or porcelain containers sealed with beeswax.
Marker Compounds: Iron oxide (Fe2O3/Fe3O4), Carbon (residual), Calcium oxide, Silica (trace), Magnesium oxide (trace)
Synergistic Combinations
- Triphala (iron absorption enhancement)
- Loha Bhasma (iron supplementation synergy)
- Mandura Bhasma (traditionally combined for anemia)
- Amalaki (vitamin C for iron absorption)
- Pippali (bioenhancer)
Reviewed by Dr. Awadesh Pratap Singh, BAMS, on 11 October 2026. What that review covered.
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