Akik Bhasma or Pishti is a mineral-based conventional ayurvedic medicine that is mainly obtained from a natural mineral named silicon dioxide or agate gem or akika. It is preliminarily used for the treatment and management of cardiac anomalies, hypertension, general debility, fatigue, depression, anxiety, digestive woes, menstrual troubles, liver diseases, excessive uterine bleeding, eye diseases etc. The mineral stone occurs naturally in 4 different colours; red, blue, white and yellow, but it is the white variety that is mainly used for medicinal purposes. Akik has extensive healing and rejuvenative qualities and is widely used for the regeneration of the various cells and tissues within the body for better functioning.
Geographical Distribution Of Akik
Akik, chemically termed Silicon dioxide chiefly found in its pure form, all over the earth’s crust. Wherever there is the formation of any cavities, silica gets deposited in it and with time, the material becomes Akika. It is a very common semi-precious ornamental stone and is also used in jewellery making.
It is extensively found all over India in the Rajpipla area and further west between the mouths of the river Tapti and Narmada in Bharuch district, Aurangabad, Buldhana, Chandrapur, Amaravati, Jalna; Nasik and Pune in Maharashtra, the riverbeds of Krishna and Godavari in Andhra Pradesh, Dhar and Mandsaur in Madhya Pradesh, Rajmahal and Sahebganj in Bihar, and Jamnagar, Kutch and Surat in Gujarat.
Other Names: Agate Gem, Akik, Akika, Silicon dioxide
Chemical Formula: SiO2
How To Formulate Akik Bhasma?
Ingredients:
Akik Stone (Purified Agate or Silicon dioxide (SiO2))
Aloe Vera Juice - Aloe barbasensis
Rose water - Rosa rubiginosa
Ketaki rasa
Jalapippalika svarasa
Rambha rasa
Cow’s Milk
Method:
Take finely powdered akik or agate particles and equal quantities of the other components
Take all three components in a mortar pestle and ground well
Keep it in a closed container and subject it to 300-degree Celsius heat for 2-3 hours
Allow the powder to cool down on its own and again grind it in a mortar pestle
Pass it through sieve 100 to remove impurities
Store the powder in amber-coloured glass bottles for future use
Medicinal Properties Of Akik Bhasma
Akik Bhasma inherently showcases the following medicinal traits:
- Cardioprotective
- Cardiac tonic
- Antiarrhythmic
- Haematinic
- Anti-atherogenic
- Anti-anxiety
- Anti-hypertensive
- Antianginal
- Positive Inotropic
- Mild antacid
- Digestive
- Antacid
- Brain Tonic
- Bone formation
- Cardioprotective
- Anti-depressant
Ayurvedic Indications Of Akik Bhasma
Ayurveda, the holistic alternative remedial science strongly swears by this magical mineral-based tonic for numerous heart-related anomalies and other woes in several ayurvedic textbooks like Sarangadhar Samhita, Susruta Samhita and Charaka Samhita. These indications include:
- Hridaya (heart problems)
- Deepana (enhances stomach fire)
- Pachana (helps in digestion)
- Rochana (stimulates appetite)
- Sonisthapana (treats bleeding)
- Chakushya (treats eye problems)
- Anulomana (improves breathing)
- Anaha (bloating)
- Kusthohara (treats skin disease)
- Shothahara (reduces inflammation)
- Pandu (treats anaemia)
- Kasahara (Relieves cough)
- Shwasha (relieves breathing difficulties)
- Amahara (treats indigestion)
- Dahahara (relieves burning sensation)
- Trutahara (relieves excessive thirst)
- Mehahara (treats urinary tract disorder)
- Ashmari (treats urinary calculi)
- Vibandha (treats constipation)
- Shoola (treats abdominal colic)
- Mutrakrichra (treats dysuria)
- Mutraghata (treats urinary obstruction)
- Pushtida (gives nutrition)
- Balya (gives muscle strength)
- Tridoshagna (reduces Vata, Pitta and Kapha)
Health Benefits Of Akik Bhasma
Promotes Cardiac Functioning
The dominant bioactive constituents present in the formulation enhance the efficacy of the heart. Imbued with potent cardiotonic and antioxidative traits, this powder of Akik is extremely effective in treating various heart anomalies. It fortifies the heart muscles, prevents the agglomeration of plaque within the blood vessels and also wards off the formation of atherosclerosis (i.e., hardening of the arteries), which in turn vastly reduces the risk of heart attacks, mitral regurgitation, heart blocks, blood clots, ischemic cardiomyopathy, arrhythmias etc. It also plays a significant role in lowering the levels of bad cholesterol and triglycerides in the body.
Also Check Out: Cardiac Health: 5 Must-to-Add Foods To Augment Heart Functions -Infographic
Controls High Blood Pressure
Akik Bhasma holds high significance in managing systolic blood pressure. Thanks to its powerful antiarrhythmic and antihypertensive quality, the medication is quite beneficial in treating mild to moderate hypertension conditions.
The hypotensive and inotropic impacts of this herbal-mineral medication also enhance coronary arterial flow. The cardiotonic characteristic promotes the sarcoplasmic reticulum functions of the heart and lessens arrhythmias or heart rhythm disorders. Ayurveda strongly suggests using the medication in appropriate doses for treating irregular heartbeat. Although, the medication is beneficial for both bradycardia and tachycardia, in case of severe complications, hospitalization is a must to avert heart failure.
Also, Read Arrhythmia: Don’t Ignore Irregular Heartbeats, Get Help
Cures Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
In most women, the monthly menstrual cycle persists for 3-5 days, but in case the bleeding stretches beyond this, then this constraint is medically termed Menorrhagia. Also understood as Raktapradar in Ayurveda, it characterizes heavy menstrual bleeding. Again, when a woman bleeds or has another period flow at any time in between two normal menstrual cycles, then it is medically termed Metrorrhagia, a health condition in which the period repeats after 10-15 days of the previous cycle. According to Ayurvedic texts, both these menstrual anomalies are collectively known as Asrigdara or abnormal uterine bleeding and they primarily ensue due to a depreciated Pitta dosha within the body. Akik Bhasma having Sita (cold) and Kashaya (astringent) traits normalize the abnormal Pitta Doshas and manages both menorrhagia and metrorrhagia naturally.
Also Read: Menstrual Worries: 5 Different Period Problems And Their Ayurvedic Remedies
Relieves Digestive Anomalies
The presence of strong carminative and digestive qualities of Akik Bhasma is extremely advantageous for remedying all sorts of digestive woes. The Deepana and Pachana essence of aloe vera used in the medication decreases the formation of gas in the alimentary canal, which in turn manages flatulence, bloating, constipation, and abdominal distension. It is also quite beneficial in preventing the formation of excessive gastric acids in the gastrointestinal passage thereby dealing with stomach woes like gastritis, indigestion, and ulcer, and facilitating better absorption of nutrients within the body. Additionally, the Krimihara (worm killing) quality of the formulation, helps to kill the harmful bacteria within the stomach by promoting the digestive fire or Agni that eradicates the ideal condition required for the growth and multiplication of worms that might lead to diarrhoea and dysentery.
Remedies Melancholic depression
Imbued with restorative properties, Akik Bhasma extensively works on neurons within the brain and readily corrects and revives their natural functioning. It helps people suffering from symptoms such as anxiety, stress, loss of pleasure, sadness, loss of appetite, weight loss, agitation and a feeling of guilt. It is a promising medication for the treatment and management of melancholic depression. For achieving better results, one can consume it with Mukta Pishti.
Therapeutic Dosage Of Akik Bhasma:
The potent therapeutic dosage of Akik Bhasma usually differs from one person to another depending upon their age, the severity of the illness, and the physical condition of the patient. Consulting an ayurvedic doctor is a must, as he or she will thoroughly examine the physical indications of the disease and prescribe the correct dosage for the specific time.
Adults: 125 mg to 250 mg, twice a day, preferably after having a meal along with luke-warm water or milk or as suggested by the doctor
Side Effects Of Akik Bhasma
Akik Bhasma contains an abundance of Silicon Dioxide, which is marked safe by the FDA when ingested through the oral route. The compound naturally occurs in the earth's crust and is also present in the natural water and plants in the form of silicates. Hence it is usually considered safe when ingested orally. However, in case you smell the Akik Dust, it can lead to silicosis; a condition which can result in kidney stones, when taken without a doctor’s recommendation for a long time.
Precautions
Although, it is safe to use Akik Bhasma during pregnancy and lactation period if prescribed by the doctor. But, without much credible information, it is safer to avoid consuming it without a doctor’s knowledge during pregnancy and lactation.
Conclusion
Akik Bhasma is a conventional herbomineral remedy bequeathed with umpteen health benefits. It plays a pivotal role in treating cardiac anomalies like heart blockage, congestive heart failure, ischemic cardiac myopathy, myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, chest pain, etc. The extensive health benefits of the various herbs and minerals used in this formulation also assist in treating eye problems, digestive issues, uterine bleeding, depression and many more health aberrations. If taken in the prescribed dosage, one can evade the side effects and reap the countless health incentives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary health benefits of Akik Bhasma?
Akik Bhasma is believed to improve heart health, enhance digestion, calm the mind and strengthen the nervous system.
Can Akik Bhasma help with anxiety and stress?
Yes, Akik Bhasma is traditionally used in Ayurveda to reduce anxiety and stress due to its calming properties. It is often prescribed for mental health support.
Are there any side effects of taking Akik Bhasma?
Side effects are rare if Akik Bhasma is used as directed by a healthcare professional. Incorrect usage or overdose may lead to adverse effects, so proper guidance is essential.
Who should avoid taking Akik Bhasma?
Pregnant women, children, and individuals with specific health conditions should avoid Akik Bhasma unless prescribed by a healthcare provider. Always consult a doctor before starting any new supplement.
Can Akik Bhasma improve digestion?
Yes, Akik Bhasma is known to support digestive health by enhancing digestive functions and relieving gastrointestinal discomfort. It is often used for this purpose in Ayurvedic medicine.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna Chief Content Editor)
References:
1. Pharmaceutical Standardization of Rakta Akika Bhasma and PishtiAuthors: Nirali shah, Darshan Parmar, and Bharti Umretia
https://pharmajournals.stmjournals.in/index.php/RRJoDDD/article/view/1211
2. Bhasma : The ancient Indian nanomedicineMarch 2014Journal of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology amp Research 5(1):4-12
March 20145(1):4-12
DOI:10.4103/2231-4040.126980
SourcePubMed
LicenseCC BY-NC-SA 3.0
Authors: Dilipkumar Pal, Chandan Kumar Sahu and Arindam Haldar
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/261329275_Bhasma_The_ancient_Indian_nanomedicine
