Shothari Loha
Shothari Loha is a classical iron-based compound formulation (vati) containing Loha Bhasma. 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) is traditionally used for 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) is regarded in classical practice as an alkalizing agent and diuretic, and is traditionally used for 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?
These summaries come from the source notes, which do not name the studies behind them.
- Shotha (edema/swelling): traditionally used for edema and swelling. In classical practice, Yavakshara is regarded as anti-edema and diuretic, and Trikatu as anti-inflammatory.
- Anemia with associated inflammatory conditions: used in classical practice for anemia with associated inflammatory conditions. Reports from clinical practice have described improved hemoglobin levels alongside fewer inflammatory symptoms.
What do recent studies show?
No study for this section could be traced to a published paper. 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
Dosage forms and preparation
Dosage Forms: Vati
Standard Dosage: 250 mg twice daily
Optimal Timing: After meals with Punarnava Kwatha or warm water
Storage: Airtight container
Marker Compounds: Iron oxide, Diuretic compounds
Vehicle (Anupana): Punarnava Kwatha, Gomutra, or warm water
Reviewed by Dr. Awadesh Pratap Singh, BAMS, on 11 October 2026. What that review covered.
Consult a qualified vaidya before acting on anything here. Ayurvedic practice is prescribed to a person, not to a condition: the same dravya is given, withheld or substituted depending on your constitution, your agni, the season and what else you are already taking. A page cannot know any of that. Self-prescribing from a reference is how the wrong preparation, the wrong dose or the wrong anupana gets used.
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.