INVITRO ANTIBACTERIAL STUDY OF TAMRA BHASMA

Tamra bhasma [copper ash] is used in treating various disorders like jvara [fever], twakvikaras [skindisorders] etc based on its antipyretic, anti parasitic and antileprotic properties mentioned in our classics. The present study was undertaken to evaluate antibacterial role of tamra bhasma on gram positive and gram negative bacteria. Material and methods: Tamra and other raw drugs such as Parada [mercury] and Gandhaka [sulphur] were purified and shudha tamra was subjected to marana [incineration] process according to the procedures mentioned in classics. MIC and MBD of the prepared sample was determined by broth dilution method by following NCCLS guidelines. Results: Tamra bhasma had an antibacterial effect against both gram positive and gram negative bacteria. Minimum Inhibition Concentration [MIC] and Minimum Bactericidal Dose [MBD] was estimated to be 2.5 mg/ml of nutrient Broth for E. Coli and between 1.25 mg/ml for Staphylococcus. Conclusion: The exact therapeutic dose detection needs further detailed analysis.