APPLICATION OF X-RAY DIFFRACTION (XRD) IN THE CHARACTERIZATION AND STANDARDIZATION OF AYURVEDIC BHASMAS AND HERBO-MINERAL FORMULATIONS: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Ayurvedic herbo-mineral formulations, particularly Bhasmas and Rasa preparations, undergo complex pharmaceutical processing procedures such as Śodhana and Māraṇa to convert raw metals and minerals into therapeutically safe and bioavailable forms. Modern analytical techniques are essential for validating these traditional preparations and ensuring their quality, safety, and standardization. X-ray diffraction (XRD) is a non-destructive analytical technique widely used for phase identification, crystallinity assessment, and structural characterization of crystalline materials. The present review focuses on the application of XRD in the characterization of various Ayurvedic single-drug Bhasmas and herbo-mineral formulations, including Lauha Bhasma, Yashada Bhasma, Tamra Bhasma, Swarna Bhasma, Makaradhwaja, Vasantakusumakar Rasa, Trivanga Bhasma, and Tarakeswara Rasa. XRD studies revealed the disappearance of elemental metal peaks and the appearance of stable oxide and sulfide phases such as Fe₂O₃, ZnO, SnO₂, CuO, and HgS, confirming successful detoxification and phase transformation during pharmaceutical processing. Peak broadening and variation in diffraction intensity indicated reduction in crystallite size and formation of nano- or microcrystalline structures, which may contribute to enhanced bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. The review highlights the importance of XRD as a scientific tool for confirming phase purity, structural stability, reproducibility, and standardization of Ayurvedic formulations. The integration of traditional Ayurvedic knowledge with modern analytical characterization techniques can significantly improve quality control and support the global acceptance of Ayurvedic herbo-mineral medicines.