Pharmaceutico-Analytical Standardization of Mandura Bhasma: Correlating Classical Samskaras With XRD Phase Transformation and SEM-EDX Characterization

Abstract

Mandura Bhasma, an iron-based herbo-mineral preparation derived from purified iron slag, is classically indicated in Panduroga and Grahani disorders, its therapeutic acceptability being achieved through sequential samskaras; however, objective data correlating these classical processes with instrumental findings remain limited. The present study was undertaken to prepare Mandura Bhasma by classical methods and to characterise the physicochemical and structural transformations occurring across the processing stages using both classical and modern analytical parameters. Raw Mandura (1.5 kg) underwent Shodhana by repeated Nirvapa in Gomutra (21 L), followed by Marana with Triphala Kwatha through 13 Gajaputa cycles, and the finished Bhasma was evaluated by classical Bhasma Pariksha (Nishchandratva, Rekhapurnatva, Varitaratva), physicochemical parameters, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and SEM-EDX. The final product was a fine brown powder satisfying all classical tests, with low loss on drying (0.12%) and high total ash (99.32%), confirming complete incineration; XRD demonstrated a phase transformation from Stilpnomelane (triclinic) in raw and Shodhita Mandura to crystalline Magnetite (cubic) after Marana, with incipient fayalite reflections emerging post-Shodhana,  while SEM revealed a progressive particle-size reduction from 90.989 μm in raw Mandura to 261.476 nm after the 13th Puta, and EDX indicated breakdown of the aluminosilicate matrix (reduced Si and Al) alongside incorporation of trace Mg and Ca from the processing media. These findings confirm that classical Shodhana and Marana induce a definitive silicate-to-magnetite phase transformation and nanoscale particle-size reduction, providing an evidence-based basis for the standardisation of Mandura Bhasma.