# Sphatika Bhasma

> Sphatika Bhasma is a bhasma, a mineral or metal preparation reduced to ash by repeated calcination. An absence here means we could not identify the source, not that no work exists. ALUMINIUM EXPOSURE CONCERN: Chronic aluminium exposure linked to neurotoxicity and possible Alzheimer's disease association (debated).

## Names and identification

| Language | Name |
|----------|------|
| English | [Sphatika Bhasma](/herb/sphatika-bhasma/) |

## Key Phytochemical Constituents

- [Potassium](/glossary/compounds-o-q/#potassium) aluminium sulfate (KAl(SO4)2) in dehydrated form
- Aluminium oxide (Al2O3) from thermal decomposition
- Potassium sulfate (K2SO4)
- Trace iron, [silica](/glossary/compounds-q-t/#silica)
- Residual water of crystallization in small amounts

## How does it work?

- Astringent action through aluminium-mediated protein precipitation on tissue surfaces, causing contraction of blood vessels and mucous membranes to control bleeding
- Broad-spectrum [antimicrobial](/reference/antimicrobial/) effect through disruption of bacterial cell walls and inhibition of enzymatic processes; superior anti-biofilm activity compared to raw alum
- Styptic ([hemostatic](/glossary/pharmacology/#hemostatic)) action through local vasoconstriction and platelet aggregation promotion at wound sites, controlling hemorrhage
- Kapha-reducing action through drying and astringent properties that reduce excessive secretions in respiratory and digestive tracts

## Which traditional uses are supported by research?

- Bleeding disorders (Raktapitta): Styptic and astringent properties well-documented in modern pharmacology, validating traditional hemostatic use
- Respiratory diseases (Kasa, Shwasa): Antibacterial activity against respiratory pathogens and mucosal-drying properties support traditional use for cough and bronchitis
- Skin diseases and wounds: Broad-spectrum antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activity validates traditional use for skin infections and wound management

## 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

- ALUMINIUM EXPOSURE CONCERN: Chronic aluminium exposure linked to neurotoxicity and possible Alzheimer's disease association (debated). Use at therapeutic doses for limited duration recommended.
- REDUCED CORROSIVENESS: Phullana (calcination) process significantly reduces the corrosive nature of raw alum, making Bhasma form safer than crude alum
- TOPICAL VS INTERNAL: Safer for external/topical use; internal use requires careful dosing to avoid GI irritation and aluminium accumulation
- RENAL PATIENTS: Aluminium-containing preparations contraindicated in patients with impaired renal function due to reduced aluminium excretion capacity

## What is it made of?

### Mineral/Elemental Profile

- **Primary component:** Calcined mineral/metal oxide (after Shodhana and Marana)
- **Particle size:** Sub-micron to nanoparticle range
- **Note:** Exact composition depends on source material and preparation method

**Analytical Methods:** XRD, ICP-OES/ICP-MS, SEM-EDS, Particle size analysis, Namburi phased spot test

## Dosage forms and preparation

**Dosage Forms:** Bhasma, Sphatika Churna (external)

**Standard Dosage:** 125–250 mg internally; external: as powder or solution

**Bioavailability:** Moderate; alum derivative

**Optimal Timing:** As directed; external use for gargle (Kavala)

**Standardized Extract:** Calcined alum (potassium aluminium sulfate) bhasma

**Shelf Life:** Indefinite (bhasma); 12 months (solution)

**Storage:** Airtight; moisture-sensitive

**Marker Compounds:** Aluminium oxide, Potassium sulfate, Silica

**Quality Parameters:** Aluminium within safe limits, standard bhasma tests, no excess free sulfate

**Vehicle (Anupana):** Honey; external use with water

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Canonical version of this page: https://nighantu.ageayurveda.com/herb/sphatika-bhasma/

## Sources

- Amidha Ayurveda Herb Database (700+ herbs, CC-BY-4.0)
- Web research (clinical trials, WHO monographs, safety databases)
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India

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.