PHARMACEUTICAL AND PRELIMINARY ANALYTICAL STUDY OF AN ARKA FOR ANAEMIA

Introduction: Pandu (anaemia) is described in Ayurveda as a Rasa Pradoshaja Vikara presenting with pallor, weakness, palpitations, and periorbital edema, closely resembling iron deficiency anaemia (IDA). As IDA remains one of the most prevalent nutritional disorders worldwide, Ayurvedic formulations addressing both iron deficiency and impaired digestion are of therapeutic importance. Pandurogaghna Arka, prepared using Loha Bhasma processed with Triphala Arka and Trikatu Arka, was selected for pharmaceutical preparation and preliminary analytical evaluation. Materials and Methods: Triphala Arka and Trikatu Arka were prepared by distillation of coarsely powdered drugs after soaking in water. Loha Bhasma obtained from a GMP-certified pharmacy was subjected to sequential Bhavana with Triphala Arka followed by Trikatu Arka until Siddhi Lakshana was achieved. The final formulation was assessed for organoleptic characteristics and physicochemical parameters including loss on drying, total ash, acid-insoluble ash, water-soluble ash, water-soluble extractive, and alcohol-soluble extractive. Results: Both Arka preparations yielded consistent volumes, indicating a reliable distillation process. Pandurogaghna Arka appeared reddish-brown with a characteristic odor and taste. Analytical evaluation showed low moisture content (4.2%), high total ash (99.33%), acid-insoluble ash (68.34%), and water-soluble ash (51.33%). Water- and alcohol-soluble extractive values were 0.8% and 0.4% respectively. Discussion: Bhavana Samskara significantly modified the organoleptic and physicochemical properties of Loha Bhasma. Triphala Arka contributed digestive and antioxidant support, while Trikatu Arka enhanced bioavailability, collectively strengthening the hematinic potential of the formulation.