Praval Bhasma (Coral Ash)

Praval Bhasma is a calx (mineral ash) prepared from natural coral (Corallium rubrum) through repeated cycles of calcination (shodhana and marana). It is not a food or herb, so traditional macronutrient profiling (protein, fat, carbohydrate, fiber) does not apply. Its therapeutic value derives entirely from its inorganic mineral and bioactive compound content. Key constituents include: **Calcium carbonate (CaCO₃):** Primary component, comprising approximately 70–85% of the final bhasma; after proper incineration it is partially converted to **calcium oxide (CaO)** and nano-sized calcium particles, significantly enhancing bioavailability compared to raw coral or conventional calcium supplements. Elemental calcium content is approximately 28–34% w/w. **Magnesium:** Present at approximately 1–3% w/w (as MgCO₃/MgO), synergistically supporting calcium absorption and bone mineralization. **Strontium:** Trace levels (~0.1–0.5%), which may contribute to osteoblast stimulation and bone density support. **Iron (Fe):** Trace amounts (~0.05–0.2%), contributing mildly to hematopoietic support. **Zinc (Zn):** Trace (~0.01–0.1%), relevant to immune modulation and enzymatic function. **Silica (SiO₂):** Trace amounts (~0.5–1.5%), supporting connective tissue integrity. **Aluminium, Sodium, Potassium:** Present in sub-trace to trace quantities (<0.1% each). **Bioactive nano-particles:** Properly prepared bhasma yields particles in the range of 30–60 nm, which dramatically increases surface area and gastrointestinal absorption; studies suggest bioavailability of calcium from Praval Bhasma is 1.5–2× higher than from conventional CaCO₃ supplements. **No significant vitamins, amino acids, or organic bioactive compounds** are present, as the repeated high-temperature calcination (typically 600–900 °C) eliminates organic matter. **Heavy metal safety note:** Authentically prepared Praval Bhasma should contain lead <10 ppm, mercury <1 ppm, arsenic <3 ppm, and cadmium <0.3 ppm per Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API) standards. Therapeutic dose is typically 125–500 mg once or twice daily, mixed with honey, ghee, or appropriate anupana (vehicle), providing roughly 35–170 mg of elemental calcium per dose.