# Navayasa Loha

> Navayasa Loha is a bhasma, a mineral or metal preparation reduced to ash by repeated calcination. Listed in Ayurvedic Formulary of India (AFI); recognized classical Ayurvedic formulation under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940; standardization protocols established.

## Key facts

- **Pharmacopoeia status:** Listed in Ayurvedic Formulary of India (AFI); recognized classical Ayurvedic formulation under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940; standardization protocols established

## Names and identification

| Language | Name |
|----------|------|
| English | [Navayasa Loha](/herb/navayasa-loha/) |

## Where is it described in the classical texts?

Bhaishajya Ratnavali, Pandu Roga Chikitsa (Anemia Treatment Chapter)

## How does it work?

- [Loha Bhasma](/herb/loha-bhasma/) (9 parts, 30 calcinations) provides nano-particulate bioavailable iron for hemoglobin synthesis and RBC production
- [Trikatu](/herb/trikatu/) (Shunthi + Maricha + [Pippali](/herb/pippali/)) enhances bioavailability of iron through improved GI absorption and stimulation of digestive [enzymes](/glossary/compounds-d-g/#enzymes) (Agni deepana)
- [Triphala](/herb/triphala/) ([Haritaki](/herb/haritaki/) + Bibhitaka + Amalaki) provides vitamin C for iron absorption enhancement, gentle [laxative](/reference/laxative/) action to prevent iron-induced constipation, and [antioxidant](/reference/antioxidant/) protection
- Chitraka (Plumbago zeylanica) acts as a potent digestive stimulant (Agni deepana), improving nutrient assimilation and iron uptake
- [Vidanga](/herb/vidanga/) (Embelia ribes) provides anthelmintic action removing intestinal parasites that may cause or worsen anemia, plus its own hematinic properties
- Musta (Cyperus rotundus) aids digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties, reducing intestinal inflammation that impairs iron absorption

## Which traditional uses are supported by research?

- Iron deficiency anemia (Pandu Roga) - validated in multiple clinical and observational studies showing statistically significant increases in hemoglobin, PCV, and RBC count
- General debility and weakness associated with anemia - clinical studies confirm improvement in energy levels, appetite, and overall vitality metrics

## What do recent clinical trials show?



*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

- Clinical trials showed no side effects on liver or kidney function tests during treatment period
- Prolonged use beyond prescribed duration may risk iron overload; periodic monitoring of serum ferritin and transferrin saturation recommended
- Contraindicated in hemochromatosis and iron storage disorders; pre-treatment iron studies advised
- Contains no mercury or other toxic heavy metals - purely herbo-iron formulation with better safety profile than mercury-containing Rasa preparations
- Chitraka (Plumbago zeylanica) at high doses can be irritant; formulation ratio ensures safe levels but gastric sensitivity should be monitored

## 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:** Churna or Vati

**Standard Dosage:** 250–500 mg twice daily

**Bioavailability:** Good; nine-ingredient formulation with natural absorption enhancers

**Optimal Timing:** After meals with honey or ghee

**Standardized Extract:** [Loha Bhasma](/herb/loha-bhasma/) combined with [Triphala](/herb/triphala/) and five herbal components (total 9 ingredients: Nava = nine)

**Shelf Life:** 2–3 years (churna); 3–5 years (vati)

**Storage:** Airtight container

**Marker Compounds:** Iron oxide, [Piperine](/reference/piperine/) (from [Pippali](/herb/pippali/)), [Trikatu](/herb/trikatu/) [alkaloids](/glossary/compounds-1-a/#alkaloids), [Triphala](/herb/triphala/) [polyphenols](/glossary/compounds-o-q/#polyphenols)

**Quality Parameters:** Iron content as labeled, weight uniformity, assay of marker compounds

**Vehicle (Anupana):** Honey, warm water

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Canonical version of this page: https://nighantu.ageayurveda.com/herb/navayasa-loha/

## Sources

- Amidha Ayurveda Herb Database (700+ herbs, CC-BY-4.0)
- Web research (clinical trials, WHO monographs, safety databases)
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India
- Classical Ayurvedic texts (Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Bhavaprakasha Nighantu)

Published by Age Ayurveda in the Nighantu. Educational reference only, not medical advice.
Incorporates material from the Amidha Ayurveda Herb Database under CC BY 4.0.