# Tapyadi Loha

> Tapyadi Loha is a bhasma, a mineral or metal preparation reduced to ash by repeated calcination. Listed in Ayurveda Sara Sangraha; recognized as a classical Ayurvedic formulation under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940; manufactured by licensed pharmacies under AYUSH guidelines.

## Key facts

- **Pharmacopoeia status:** Listed in Ayurveda Sara Sangraha; recognized as a classical Ayurvedic formulation under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940; manufactured by licensed pharmacies under AYUSH guidelines

## Names and identification

| Language | Name |
|----------|------|
| English | [Tapyadi Loha](/herb/tapyadi-loha/) |

## Where is it described in the classical texts?

Ayurveda Sara Sangraha (Ayurved Saar Sangrah); also referenced in classical Rasashastra texts

## How does it work?

- Triple iron source ([Loha Bhasma](/herb/loha-bhasma/) + [Mandura Bhasma](/herb/mandura-bhasma/) + Swarnamakshik Bhasma) provides multi-form bioavailable iron for robust hemoglobin synthesis
- [Raupya Bhasma](/herb/raupya-bhasma/) (silver calx) has [antimicrobial](/reference/antimicrobial/) and Pitta-pacifying properties, supporting liver detoxification pathways
- [Shilajit](/herb/shilajit/) acts as a potent bioenhancer containing fulvic acid that markedly improves mineral absorption and cellular iron uptake
- [Daruharidra](/herb/daruharidra/) (Berberis aristata) contains [berberine](/glossary/compounds-a-c/#berberine), providing [hepatoprotective](/reference/hepatoprotective/) and cholagogue effects supporting liver and biliary function
- [Trikatu](/herb/trikatu/) enhances bioavailability and digestive fire (Agni deepana) for optimal nutrient assimilation
- [Triphala](/herb/triphala/) provides [antioxidant](/reference/antioxidant/) protection, gentle bowel regulation (preventing iron-induced constipation), and vitamin C for iron absorption

## Which traditional uses are supported by research?

- Pandu (anemia) and Kamla (jaundice-like conditions) - validated through traditional clinical use and supported by the known hematinic and hepatoprotective actions of constituent ingredients
- Liver and spleen disorders (Yakrit-Pliha Roga) - traditional use supported by hepatoprotective properties of [Daruharidra](/herb/daruharidra/) ([berberine](/glossary/compounds-a-c/#berberine)), [Shilajit](/herb/shilajit/), and [Triphala](/herb/triphala/); 2024 toxicity study showed no hepatotoxicity

## What do recent clinical trials show?

- Hinge PH, Tambe MS, Murudkar PH and others 2024. [Acute and subacute oral toxicity evaluation of Ayurvedic formulation Tapyadi loha in rats](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39165010/). *Drug and chemical toxicology*. PMID [39165010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39165010/) · [doi:10.1080/01480545.2024.2389965](https://doi.org/10.1080/01480545.2024.2389965)  
  [Tapyadi Loha](/herb/tapyadi-loha/) showed no mortality or signs of toxicity at single oral dose of 2000 mg/kg; 28-day repeated dose at 1000 mg/kg showed no behavioral, hematological, biochemical, or histopathological abnormalities - confirmed safe at tested doses

*1 further claim previously listed here could not be traced to a published paper and has been removed. An absence here means we could not identify the source, not that no work exists.*

## Recent safety updates

- 2024 toxicity study confirmed safety at single dose of 2000 mg/kg and 28-day repeated dose of 1000 mg/kg in rat models with no adverse effects
- Contains multiple iron sources (Loha + Mandura + Swarnamakshik) - higher cumulative iron intake requires careful monitoring of serum ferritin and iron studies
- [Raupya Bhasma](/herb/raupya-bhasma/) (silver) content requires verification of proper preparation (Shodhana) and heavy metal testing per API standards
- Contraindicated in hemochromatosis, iron overload conditions, active liver disease (despite hepatoprotective herbs), and during pregnancy without supervision
- Should be used under strict medical supervision with regular LFT and KFT monitoring; recommended treatment duration should not be exceeded

## 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:** 125–250 mg twice daily

**Bioavailability:** Enhanced; multiple metals provide comprehensive mineral supplementation

**Optimal Timing:** After meals with honey

**Standardized Extract:** Multi-metal bhasma preparation: Loha + Tamra + Yashada + other metals with herbs

**Shelf Life:** 3–5 years

**Storage:** Airtight container

**Marker Compounds:** Iron oxide, Copper oxide, Zinc oxide, Multiple herbal compounds

**Quality Parameters:** Multi-metal assay, free metals below safety limits, standard tablet tests

**Vehicle (Anupana):** Honey, [Guduchi](/herb/guduchi/) Swarasa, or [Triphala](/herb/triphala/) Kwatha

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