Rajata Bhasma (Silver Ash)

Rajata Bhasma (Silver Ash) is a classical Ayurvedic metallic preparation and does not possess a conventional macronutrient or micronutrient profile like food-based ingredients. Its composition is primarily inorganic and mineral in nature. Key compositional data: Silver (Ag) content: approximately 85–95% as the primary elemental constituent, present in nano-particulate and oxidized forms post-calcination (shodhana and marana processing). Bioactive compounds include silver oxide (Ag2O), silver sulfide (AgS), and trace silver carbonate complexes formed during the Bhasma preparation process. Particle size is characteristically ultra-fine, typically in the range of 25–100 nanometers, which significantly enhances bioavailability and mucosal absorption compared to bulk metallic silver. Trace mineral co-constituents (derived from processing adjuvants such as lemon juice, herbal decoctions): negligible calcium, sulfur, and carbon residues at <1% concentration. Protein content: nil. Fiber content: nil. Fat content: nil. Carbohydrate content: nil. Vitamins: none inherent to the preparation. Bioavailability notes: The nano-particulate nature of Bhasma silver allows for enhanced gastrointestinal absorption via transcytosis; silver ions (Ag+) are the primary bioactive species released in biological fluids. Conventional silver bioavailability from metallic sources is <1%, but Bhasma processing is reported to increase this to an estimated 10–20% through particle size reduction and surface oxidation. Heavy metal safety context: therapeutic dose is strictly micro-dosed (typically 15–30 mg per day under practitioner supervision) to remain below systemic toxicity thresholds.