Shankh Bhasma is an Ayurvedic formulation made from a conch shell. Ayurveda strongly recommends shank bhasma for treating the doshas or imbalances that are related to vata and pitta. It is widely used as a traditional medicine for treating various types of digestive disorders like gastritis, abdominal pain, and malabsorption syndrome. It is derived from the powder of a conch shell through the process of calcination.
What Is Shankh?
It is a soft organism that survives inside the dense calcareous shell or conch. Shankh is called as Indian Conch, and it is available in two types: one is Vama Varta (opening of the shankh is on the left side) and Daksin Varta (opening of the shankh is on the right side). Vam varta is the shankh used extensively for medicinal purposes.
Conch shell is Shankha in Sanskrit, shankh in Hindi, shankha in Kannada, and Shankham in Malayalam and Telugu.
Preparation
Ingredients
Purified Conch Shell
Aloe Vera or lemon juice
Method
Shanka is ground into a powder form by adding Aloe Vera or lemon juice and blended into a disc-shaped cube. It is then dried in the absence of oxygen for 800-900* °C and allowed to cool down. This method is repeated twice to obtain Shanka Bhashma.
Healing Medicinal Properties
This amazing bhasma possesses a broad spectrum of healing medicinal properties. It serves as an antacid, stool binding agent, anti-diarrhoeal, appetite stimulant, anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and antiemetic.
Ayurvedic Properties
As per Ayurveda, shankha bhasma pacifies the irregularities related to Kapha and Vata, but in addition it also acts as a natural alkalizer which counteracts the hydrochloric acid secretion and eases acidity. Improper digestion leads to accumulation of toxins in the system called AMA, shanka bashma aids in clearing out the toxins and detoxifying the gut.
Dosage
The recommended dosage is 250 mg capsules once or twice daily before or after food. Traditionally, it is consumed as a powder mixed with honey, lemon juice, or along with triphala Kashaya.
Healing Benefits
Treats Diarrhoea
Shanka bhasma is an effective formulation for curing severe diarrhoea. It is generally given in severe cases when the patients have passed motion more than six times with abdominal cramping and flatulence. The strong antidiarrheal and antispasmodic effect of Shanka Bhasma helps in treating severe diarrhoea.
Cures Acidity
Shanka bhasma is a great acid neutralizer that helps in lowering hyperacid secretion in the stomach and aids in balancing the acid production. It can get rid of AMA toxins, which help in easing indigestion problems. Furthermore, Shanka Bhasma is also beneficial in treating various other digestive issues - abdominal distention, flatulence, nausea, and burning sensation in the mouth.
Anti-Spasmodic Effect
The strong antispasmodic effect of shanka bhasma on abdominal muscles aids in lowering muscle spasm. In addition, Shanka Bhasma functions in treating abdominal cramping associated with dysmenorrhea.
Prevents Bloating And Flatulence
Owing to the presence of bioactive components like aloe vera and lemon juice, this digestive powder holds high significance in reducing flatulence, intestinal gas, bloating, and abdominal heaviness.
Relieves IBS
IBS, also known as Grahani in Sanskrit, is mostly caused due to unhealthy dietary choices, excessive intake of food particles that are difficult to digest, intake of foods that cause allergy, or the ones that are low on nutrients, and other physical and mental factors. It can cause both diarrhoea and constipation. Being a potent antacid, Shankha Bhasma makes for an ultimate choice for treating this painful disease.
Remedies for Liver Anomalies
Deemed as ‘sarva roga niramani’, and imbued with anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective properties, Shankha Bhasma holds high significance in offering a magical remedy for jaundice, in which the liver gets mostly affected. This herbo-mineral formulation offers support to the liver functioning by secreting bile, which in turn helps the liver enzymes to come down to normal levels. It also cleanses and detoxifies the liver and improves liver functioning.
Side Effects
Shanka bhasma is not safe to be taken in powder form, without mixing it with honey or any other agent, as it can lead to fissure. Shanka bhasma is not advisable for pregnant and lactating women.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Use Of Shankh Bhasma?
Shankh Bhasma is an Ayurvedic medicine used to treat digestive issues like acidity, indigestion, and gas.
How To Use Shankh Powder?
It is usually taken with honey, ghee, or water as directed by an Ayurvedic practitioner.
What Is Shankh Jiru Powder Used For?
Shankh Jiru powder is used to improve digestion, relieve bloating, and enhance appetite.
How Do You Eat Shankh Bhasma?
It is typically consumed in small doses mixed with warm water or buttermilk after meals.
What Are The Side Effects Of Bhasma?
When taken improperly, Bhasma may cause toxicity, gastric irritation, or heavy metal accumulation.
What Are The Benefits Of Shankh?
Shankh (conch shell) is believed to aid digestion, balance stomach acid, and have spiritual significance in rituals.
Can Girls Use Shankh?
Yes, Shankh Bhasma can be used by females under proper medical guidance.
Which Shankh Is Not Good For the Home?
Dakshinavarti (right-turning) Shankh is considered auspicious, while the Vamavarti (left-turning) Shankh is often avoided for home use in some traditions.
Which God Uses Shankh?
Lord Vishnu is commonly depicted holding a Shankh (conch) as one of his divine symbols.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile: M Sowmya Binu:
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics, including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
