Formulation Physico Chemical Characterization and Assessment of Immunomodulatory and Anti Arthritic Activity of Rajat Bhasma

Abstract

ABSTARCT newlineTitle: Formulation, Physico-Chemical Characterization and Assessment of Immunomodulatory and Anti-Arthritic Activity of Rajat Bhasma newlineThe present research work was undertaken to scientifically evaluate a classical Ayurvedic metallic preparation, Rajat Bhasma (incinerated silver), which has been traditionally used for centuries in the management of chronic and severe disorders such as Prameha, Krimi, and and#256;mavand#257;ta. While modern pharmacotherapy relies heavily on synthetic and plant-based drugs, their long-term use is frequently associated with significant toxicity, resistance, and economic burden. In contrast, Ayurvedic Bhasma preparations are claimed to be effective, stable, and safe in minute doses when prepared according to classical procedures. newlineIn this study, Rajat Bhasma was formulated according to Rasashastra principles through and#346;odhana (purification) and Mand#257;raand#7751;a (incineration) processes and evaluated by classical Bhasma Parand#299;kand#7779;and#257; (Varitaratva, Rekhapand#363;rand#7751;atand#257;, Niruttha, Apunarbhand#257;va). The prepared Bhasma was further subjected to physico-chemical characterization using advanced modern techniques including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and zeta potential analysis. These analyses confirmed the nanoparticulate nature of Rajat Bhasma (40 60 nm), predominantly in the form of silver sulfide (Agand#8322;S), with good stability and absence of toxic heavy metals. In the present study, the immunomodulatory potential of Rajat Bhasma was also assessed through hematological analysis. The results demonstrated a significant improvement in blood parameters, with an increase in red blood cell (RBC) count and hemoglobin (Hb) levels in treated groups as compared to the control. newlineThis indicates a positive influence of Rajat Bhasma on hematopoiesis and oxygen-carrying capacity of blood, thereby supporting its traditional description as a Rasand#257;yana and Balya formulation, which promotes vitality and strengthens the body s defense mechanisms. newlineThe anti-arthritic activity was assessed in Freund s Complete Adjuvant (FCA)-induced arthritis in rats. Rajat Bhasma significantly reduced paw volume, arthritic scoring, and histopathological damage, while improving antioxidant status (increased SOD and catalase, reduced MDA levels). Its effect was comparable to standard anti-inflammatory drugs, but without observed toxicity. newlineToxicological evaluation as per OECD guidelines (acute and sub-acute studies) revealed no adverse changes in body weight, hematological, biochemical, or histopathological parameters, establishing the safety of the prepared formulation. newlineIn conclusion, this research provides comprehensive evidence that properly prepared Rajat Bhasma is a safe, nanoparticulate, biocompatible formulation with significant immunomodulatory and anti-arthritic activities. These findings scientifically validate the Ayurvedic claims of Rajat Bhasma as a potent Rasand#257;yana and therapeutic agent for autoimmune and inflammatory disorders and highlight its potential as a cost-effective and safer alternative to toxic synthetic drugs. newlineKeywords: Rajat Bhasma, Ayurveda, Rasashastra, Physico-chemical characterization, Immunomodulation, Anti-arthritic activity, Nanoparticles, Rasand#257;yana. newline