Our blood plays a quintessential role in our body. Right from transporting oxygen, nutrients and hormones to various cells and tissues, regulating body temperature, forming blood clots to prevent excess blood loss, carrying cells and antibodies that combat infection to carrying waste products to the kidneys and liver for the purpose of elimination, the blood never rests and is always circulating. Hence, it is extremely necessary to keep the blood pure and free of toxins to ensure proper functioning of the body which ultimately leads to remedying a host of health issues. With more and more people depending upon natural herbs and remedies to cleanse and purify the blood, there is one such incredible formulation from the heart of Ayurveda that readily contributes to the detoxification process of this vital fluid is Sphatika Bhasma.
Also Read: Triphala: An Ayurvedic Wonder For Detoxification And Rejuvenation
What Is Sphatika Bhasma?
Sphatika Bhasma, also known as Shubhra Bhasma, Tuvari Bhasma, Kankshi Bhasma, or Phataki Bhasma is a classical ayurvedic proprietary medication made of Alum or Fitkari that is extensively used for the treatment and management of skin diseases, bleeding disorders and respiratory issues. Additionally, owing to its powerful hemostatic, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic nature, it is also used for remedying chest pain due to pneumonia, bronchitis, chronic cough, menorrhagia, metrorrhagia & menometrorrhagia, vomiting in tuberculosis, hematemesis (blood in vomiting), chronic diarrhea, and abdominal pain due to lead toxicity. Externally, it is also indicated for skin problems such as leucoderma, herpes, and vitiligo.
How To Make Sphatika Bhasma?
Ingredients:
Sphatika/ Potash Alum (as required)
Method:
Put the required quantity of potash alum in a wide-bottomed iron pan.
Heat the pan in open air continuously till all the moisture evaporates.
Collect the powder at the end.
Store it in amber-coloured, food-grade, glass bottles for future use.
Chemical Composition Of Sphatika Bhasma
Sphatika Bhasma mainly contains the calcined form of Alum. Chemically, it is also denoted as Potash Alum and is a colorless and water-soluble compound with astringent and styptic actions.
Chemical Formula: K2SO4.Al2(SO4)3.24H2O
Ayurvedic Indications Of Sphatika Bhasma
Since ages, Sphatika or any of its formulatioms has been mentioned by several ayurvedic physicians as a "rejuvenative dravya" that confers potent detoxifying effects. Several ayurvedic scriptures and journals mention this formulation for various indications which include Raktadoshahara (blood purifying), Pandu (treats skin disorders), Yakrit Vikara (prevents liver infections), Sangrahini (treats diarrhoea), Jvara (useful in fever), Kamala (prevents jaundice), Kasahara (Relieves cough), Amahara (treats indigestion), Dahahara (relieves burning sensation), Shwasha (relieves breathing difficulties), Anulomana (improves breathing), Shonitasthapana (prevents bleeding), Vran Ropana (heals wounds), Kantya (relieves sore throat), Deepana (enhances stomach fire), Pachana (helps in digestion), Rochana (stimulates appetite), Kupachan (prevents bloating, indigestion), Sangrahini (treats diarrhoea), Jvara (useful in fever), Kamala (prevents jaundice), Triptighno (relieves pseudo-satiation), and Varnya (improves complexion).
Incredible Health Benefits Of Sphatika Bhasma
Purifies Blood
Owing to the superb detoxifying properties, sphatika bhasma is extremely beneficial in purifying the blood. By cleansing the blood, it improves blood circulation and also helps to remove the toxins from the bloodstream and the various organs in the body.
Combats Respiratory Issues
Powered with exceptional anti-inflammatory, anti-biotic, and anti-asthmatic properties, this magical formulation of potash alum is considered to be a well-known traditional remedy for all sorts of respiratory troubles. It is pivotal in treating the common cold, sore throat, cough and flu symptoms. It also actively thins and loosens the catarrh particles within the chest and nasal cavities and hence eases breathing and helps the body to get rid of mucus. It is also beneficial for treating asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia and whooping cough.
Remedies Gynecological Problems
Sphatika Bhasma is an absolute remedy for all sorts of hormonal problems. It plays a pivotal role in regulating periods, treating postnatal ailments, and even helps to treat excessive abdominal pain/bleeding. Additionally, it also helps in treating amenorrhea (absent menstruation), menorrhagia (abnormally heavy or prolonged bleeding), metrorrhagia (abnormal bleeding from the uterus in between regular menstrual cycle), menometrorrhagia (excessive and prolonged uterine bleeding occurring at irregular and/or frequent intervals) and also provides extensive relief from abdominal cramps due to dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation).
Also Read: Menstrual Worries: 5 Different Period Problems And Their Ayurvedic Remedies
Treats Abdominal Pain
Lead Toxicity can be extremely harmful causes a severe abdominal pain, cramping and increased risk of high blood pressure and kidney damage. Ayurveda brings an incredible natural remedy for treating and managing this toxicity in the form of Sphatika bhasma. When consumed alongside Karpur (camphor) and Ahiphena on recommended doses, it acts as a purgative medication and facilitates elimination of lead from the body via defecation process.
Treats Wounds And Ulcers
Imbued with anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, Sphatika bhasma plays a key role in treating different types of ulcers like ulcerative colitis, peptic ulcer, canker sores or mouth ulcers, etc. The active component in this formulation actively promotes tissue regeneration, facilitates wound healing and sometimes even helps in gradually treating the scar tissue.
Augments Skin Health
Sanctified with powerful detoxifying qualities, Ayurveda acknowledges Sphatika bhasma as a well-known one-step remedy for various skin conditions. Owing to its blood purifying properties which helps in removing toxins from the blood, it helps in treating a host of skin infections as well. It not only helps in shielding the skin from oxidative radical damage due to the harmful UVA and UVB rays, but also reduces the risk of the various signs of aging like wrinkles, blemishes, spots, fine lines, and dark circles. It is also beneficial for treating allergic conditions like acne, pimples, zits, psoriasis, pruritus, scabies, eczema and many more.
Dosage
The effectual therapeutic dosage of Sphatika Bhasma may vary from person to person depending upon the age, body strength, effects on appetite, severity, and condition of the patient. It is firmly recommended to consult an ayurvedic doctor or practitioner as he or she would evaluate the patient’s indications, past medical conditions and prescribe an effective dose for a specific period.
Adults: 125 to 500 mg, twice or thrice a day, after meals, alongside madhu (honey), sharkara (sugar) or sharbat banafsha or as suggested by the health care provider or ayurvedic doctor.
Side-effects:
Although this mineral formulation has been studied and researched extensively and is extremely beneficial in treating umpteen health conditions, it is still necessary to consume the formulation in the prescribed amount as suggested by the ayurvedic practitioner or doctor. An excess of it can lead to contraindications including mouth dryness, intestinal inflammation, gastritis, ulcers, nausea or vomiting. Since there are no proper clinical studies, it is also strictly suggested for children, pregnant women and lactating mothers to avoid consuming this medication without doctor’s supervision.
Conclusion:
Sphatika Bhasma has been mentioned in several ayurvedic scriptures as a potent rasayani component owing to its enormous therapeutic properties. Fueled with detoxifying, anti-hemostatic, astringent, anti-pruritic, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties, it is extremely beneficial in remedying a host of health issues including skin infections, respiratory anomalies, bleeding disorder, lead toxicity and even gynaecological issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Sphatika Bhasma?
Sphatika Bhasma, also known as Alum Bhasma, is a traditional Ayurvedic preparation made from purified alum. It undergoes a specific purification process according to Ayurvedic principles, rendering it suitable for therapeutic use.
How Is Sphatika Bhasma Prepared?
Sphatika Bhasma is prepared by purifying raw alum (Sphatika) through a series of calcination and purification processes. It involves heating the alum, reducing it to ash, and then subjecting it to purification with various herbal juices and decoctions.
What Are The Traditional Uses Of Sphatika Bhasma?
Sphatika Bhasma is traditionally used in Ayurveda to treat various health conditions, including indigestion, acidity, urinary disorders, and skin conditions, and as a coagulant in bleeding disorders.
Can Sphatika Bhasma Be Used Externally?
Yes, Sphatika Bhasma is also used externally in various Ayurvedic formulations for skin conditions and wound healing. It is often mixed with suitable oils or ointments for topical application.
Are There Any Precautions Or Contraindications Associated With Sphatika Bhasma?
Sphatika Bhasma should be used cautiously, especially in cases of hypersensitivity or allergies. Additionally, it is essential to adhere to proper dosage guidelines and consult an Ayurvedic practitioner before use, especially during pregnancy or for children.
Can Sphatika Bhasma be used for skin conditions?
Yes, it’s often used to soothe skin irritations, acne, and other skin conditions due to its cooling properties.
How is Sphatika Bhasma traditionally applied to wounds?
It’s typically mixed with water or rose water and applied directly to the affected area for its healing effects.
Can Sphatika Bhasma help with respiratory issues?
Yes, in Ayurveda, it is sometimes recommended for respiratory relief due to its cleansing properties.
Does Sphatika Bhasma have antiseptic properties?
Yes, Sphatika Bhasma is known for its antiseptic qualities and is often used in treating cuts and wounds.
Can Sphatika Bhasma be used to treat oral issues?
Yes, it’s sometimes used in oral care for ulcers and gum health, but should be used cautiously.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile
Soumita Basu:
Soumita Basu holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmacy and is keenly interested in Ayurveda, home remedies, yoga, fitness, diagnostics, and beauty. With nearly 6 years of experience, she produces evidence-based health content, including articles, videos, and infographics, to provide valuable insights to her audience.
References:
- IN VITRO EVALUATION OF ANTIMICROBIAL AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITIES OF ALUM AND ITS BHASMA (SPHATIKA BHASMA)
Authors: Anuya Aparna Rege , Dipti Bhushan Kolte and Susan Samuel Martin
https://www.journalijar.com/article/42146/in-vitro-evaluation-of-antimicrobial-and-antioxidant-activities-of-alum-and-its-bhasma-(sphatika-bhasma/
2. Role of Sphatik bhasma as haemostatic drug in the Management of Rakta Pradar W.R.T Heavy Menstrual BleedingAuthors: Deepali Agrwal and Rajshree Ambhore
https://www.ijam.co.in/index.php/ijam/article/view/1932
