Yashada (Zinc) in Ayurveda: A Scoping Review of ClassicalConcepts, Pharmaceutical Processing, Analytical Characterization,and Therapeutic Applications
Keywords:
Ayurvedic nanomedicine, Bhasma, Rasa shastra, Scoping review, Yashada, Yashada bhasma, Zinc, Zinc oxide nanoparticlesAbstract
Background: Yashada (zinc) is an important metallic drug described in Ayurvedic Rasa Shastra and therapeutically indicated in disorders such as Prameha, Vrana, and Netra Roga. Classical pharmaceutical procedures, including Shodhana and Marana, convert raw metal into Yashada Bhasma, a biologically assimilable medicinal form. Recent analytical and biomedical studies have validated its physicochemical and therapeutic properties.
Objectives: The objective of the study was to critically review classical and contemporary literature on Yashada with emphasis on its historical evolution, pharmaceutical processing, analytical characterization, pharmacological activities, clinical applications, and safety profile.
Methods: Classical references were collected from major Rasa Shastra texts. Contemporary literature was searched through PubMed, Google Scholar, AYUSH Research Portal, and DHARA using keywords including “Yashada”, “Yashada Bhasma”, and “zinc”. Studies were screened and categorized according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses-ScR methodology.
Results: Out of 95 identified records, 46 studies were included after screening and duplicate removal. Analytical studies demonstrated conversion of metallic zinc into predominantly zinc oxide nano- and micro-particles following classical processing. Experimental studies reported antidiabetic, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, wound healing, antiviral, and anticancer activities. Limited clinical studies suggested beneficial effects in diabetes mellitus, wound healing, and dermatological disorders. Safety studies indicated relatively low toxicity of properly prepared Yashada Bhasma, although variability among marketed formulations remains a concern.
Conclusion: Yashada Bhasma represents a promising interface between Ayurvedic metallurgy and modern nanomedicine. However, further standardized analytical studies and well-designed clinical trials are required to establish its safety, efficacy, and translational relevance.
