EFFECT OF HEATING METHODS ON BHASMA W.S.R. TO SPHATIKAMANI: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF GAJAPUTA AND ELECTRIC MUFFLE FURNACE

Abstract

Background: Sphatikamani, identified as quartz (SiO₂), is an important mineral described in Rasashastra. Owing to its high hardness and thermal stability, the incineration process requires sustained high-temperature heating. Gajaputa is employed for Marana (incineration), whereas the Electric Muffle Furnace (EMF) provides a controlled heating environment. Objective: To evaluate the effect of Gajaputa and EMF heating methods on the pharmaceutical characteristics of Sphatikamani Bhasma. Materials and Methods: Sphatikamani was purified and processed into Bhasma by incineration using purified sulphur and Juice of Citrus limon L. Two batches were prepared using Gajaputa and EMF, respectively. The pharmaceutical process was evaluated by recording temperature profile, duration of heating, fuel requirement, weight variation and yield. Analytical evaluation of the prepared Bhasma was carried out using XRD and SEM-EDS. Results: Both methods yielded Sphatikamani Bhasma meeting the classical parameters. Gajaputa reached 845–863°C using approximately 36 kg of cow dung cakes and yielded 172 g, whereas EMF operated at 850°C for 1 hour per Puta and yielded 179 g. Differences were observed in heating pattern, colour, Chakrika brittleness, process duration, and operational convenience. XRD confirmed stable α-quartz (SiO₂) as the major phase, while SEM-EDS showed comparable elemental composition, with RCBE exhibiting a smoother surface morphology than RCB. Conclusion: Both Gajaputa and EMF were suitable for the preparation of Sphatikamani Bhasma. The controlled heating profile of EMF supports its use as a suitable alternative to Gajaputa.