mercury bhasmas

[Guest guest]

I was wondering if anyone had any more information on mercury

bhasmas? I have heard where they can do wonders. However, one

Ayurvedic doctor told me of a study where mercury was included in a

formula and where it was excluded in a traditional formula and there

was virtually no differnce in the outcome on patients. He also told

me that mercury bhasmas cannot be shipped to the US. Is that the

case or are there alternative ways to get them?

 

Thanks

GB

[Guest guest]

Dear GB,

The branch of ayurveda dealing with mercury bhasmas or bhasmas of

other metals too is called as Rasa-Shastra. There are many good books

on the subject. Though they can be called as the wonder drugs of

ayurveda, the preparation of these bhasmas or other medicines in Rasa-

Shastra is neither simple nor easy. While a well prepared product can

show marvelous result, an improperly prepared product will lead to

complications.

Sometimes because of their fast action they are prescribed even when

simple plant based medicines would give the same result. So making a

statement that doing without mercury bhasma will make no difference

in cases where it is indicated is not proper. If you could give an

entire report of the study (which you have mentioned in your

message), maybe we can make more precise comment on the same.

Mercury bhasmas cannot be shipped to the US as chemically it is still

mercury. Since it is classified as a toxic substance, mercury bhasma

or any preparation (meant for oral use) containing the same cannot be

shipped to the US. However if proper procedure is followed I see no

reason why it can't be prepared in the US itself. I beleive there are

many ayurvedic colleges and centers opening up in the US. Maybe they

will be able to help you better.

 

Cybervaidya

[Guest guest]

Dear Cybervaida,

 

Thank you for your answer. I did not make the statement that mercury bhasmas

were not any better than other herbal preparations. I was relaying that

information that an ayurvedic physician told me. He said he read about a study

indicating this. I know the bhasmas have been around for quuite awhile and

wanted to see if anyone had any info rejecting or supporting that study. Dr.

Bhate's posts with links on mercury bhasmas helped some. Do you recommend any

books on the subject?

 

Thanks

GB