Masi
Masi is a substance used in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Iron oxide nanoparticles in Masi (ink/iron-based Bhasma) show enhanced absorption compared to conventional iron supplements. 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 |
What is it made of?
Mineral/Elemental Profile
- Primary component: Mineral-derived preparation
- Note: Composition varies by specific preparation method
Analytical Methods: XRD, ICP-OES, SEM-EDS
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
Bioavailability: Bhasma preparations are nano-particulate inorganic compounds with unique bioavailability characteristics. Iron oxide nanoparticles in Masi (ink/iron-based Bhasma) show enhanced absorption compared to conventional iron supplements. Particle size (typically 30-100 nm in properly prepared Bhasma) facilitates paracellular and transcellular absorption. Bioavailability is 2-3 times higher than ferrous sulfate in some comparative studies. Anupana (vehicle) plays critical role in directing absorption.
Optimal Timing: Before meals with honey for Kapha conditions; after meals with ghee for Vata conditions; with buttermilk for Pitta conditions and iron supplementation
Standardized Extract: Properly prepared Bhasma meeting all classical Bhasma Pariksha (quality tests). Particle size distribution: D90 below 100 nm. Iron content as Fe2O3: 80-95%. Loss on ignition below 5%. Acid-insoluble ash per pharmacopoeial limits.
Shelf Life: Indefinite for properly prepared Bhasma (classical view). Commercial shelf life: 5+ years. Bhasma does not degrade if stored properly.
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)
Extraction Methods
- Classical Bhasma preparation (Shodhana, Marana, repeated calcination cycles)
- Levigation (Bhavana) with herbal juices
- Puta system of controlled incineration at specific temperatures
- Modern validation using muffle furnace at 600-800 deg C
Synergistic Combinations
- Triphala (iron absorption enhancement)
- Loha Bhasma (iron supplementation synergy)
- Mandura Bhasma (anemia management)
- Amalaki (vitamin C for iron absorption)
- Pippali (bioenhancer)
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