Shothari Loha
Shothari Loha is a bhasma, a mineral or metal preparation reduced to ash by repeated calcination. Referenced in Bhaishajya Ratnavali; recognized as a classical Ayurvedic formulation; manufactured under license by Ayurvedic pharmacies as per AYUSH guidelines and Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.
| Substance type | Mineral or metal preparation, not a plant |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Shothari Loha, ShothariLoha |
| Pharmacopoeia status | Referenced in Bhaishajya Ratnavali; recognized as a classical Ayurvedic formulation; manufactured under license by Ayurvedic pharmacies as per AYUSH guidelines and Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 |
Names and identification
| Language | Name |
|---|---|
| English | Shothari Loha |
Where is it described in the classical texts?
Bhaishajya Ratnavali, Shotharoga Adhikara (Inflammation/Edema Chapter), Verse 42/133
How does it work?
- Loha Bhasma (48 g, highest proportion) corrects anemia which can be both a cause and consequence of chronic edema/inflammation
- Trikatu (Shunthi + Maricha + Pippali) provides anti-inflammatory action through inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis and COX pathway modulation
- Yavakshara (potassium carbonate) acts as an alkalizing agent, promotes diuresis, and helps reduce fluid retention/edema
- Piperine from Maricha and Pippali enhances bioavailability of iron and other active compounds through inhibition of hepatic and intestinal glucuronidation
- Shunthi (ginger) has demonstrated anti-edema effects through inhibition of TNF-alpha and IL-6 inflammatory cytokines
- Combined Kapha-reducing (Kapha hara) property reduces excess fluid accumulation (Kleda) in tissues according to Ayurvedic pharmacology
Which traditional uses are supported by research?
- Shotha (edema/swelling) - traditional use supported by known anti-edema and diuretic properties of Yavakshara and anti-inflammatory effects of Trikatu
- Anemia with associated inflammatory conditions - validated through clinical practice showing improvement in hemoglobin levels alongside reduction in inflammatory symptoms
What do recent clinical trials show?
2 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
- Contains primarily iron and herbal ingredients without mercury or arsenic - relatively safer mineral profile
- Yavakshara (potassium carbonate) may cause gastric irritation at high doses; should be taken with food or as directed
- Iron overload risk with prolonged unsupervised use; periodic serum ferritin and TIBC monitoring recommended beyond 6-8 weeks
- Contraindicated in hemochromatosis, hyperkalemia, and active peptic ulcer disease
- Should be used under medical supervision; self-medication not recommended for chronic inflammatory conditions
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: Vati
Standard Dosage: 250 mg twice daily
Bioavailability: Good; anti-edema herbs enhance iron delivery to tissues
Optimal Timing: After meals with Punarnava Kwatha or warm water
Standardized Extract: Loha Bhasma with anti-inflammatory and diuretic herbs
Shelf Life: 3–5 years
Storage: Airtight container
Marker Compounds: Iron oxide, Punarnava alkaloids, Diuretic compounds
Quality Parameters: Iron content as labeled, standard tablet tests
Vehicle (Anupana): Punarnava Kwatha, Gomutra, or warm water
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Educational reference only. Nothing on this page is medical advice, a diagnosis, or a recommendation to take anything. Traditional uses and research findings are reported as published, not as claims about what any product does. If you take prescribed medication, raise any interaction with the prescriber rather than acting on a page. See our editorial standards.