Therapeutic Potential of Heeraka Bhasma (Incinerated Diamond ash): A review through Classical and Contemporary literature.

Abstract

The ancient Indian alchemical tradition of Rasashastra encompasses a diverse literature on the therapeutic application of metals, minerals, and gemstones. This tradition later integrated into Ayurveda, the indigenous medical system of India, forming a significant branch thereof. Within Rasashastra's classical texts, Heeraka (Diamond) is categorized under Ratna Varga (Precious gemstones classification), alongside other precious and semiprecious gemstones. Notably, Heeraka Bhasma, the incinerated ash of diamond, finds mention for treating internal abscesses, tumors, angina pectoris, and tuberculosis. Reviewing over 30 classical texts reveals various pharmaceutical procedures like Shodhana(Purification) and Marana(Process of preparing Bhasma), enhancing Heeraka's therapeutic potential. Common purification methods include Nirvapa(Hearing and Quenching) and Swedana(Boiling), while Gajaputa(Amount of Heat) is the commonest puta given  for Bhasma(Incinerated Ash) preparation, often employing Karpasa Mula and 3-year-old Nagvalli swarasa as media. This review aims to comprehensively explore diamond's processing techniques and therapeutic attributes as described in classical literature and contemporary research.