Kapardak (Kapardika) Bhasma – Cowrie Bhasma

Kapardak Bhasma (also known as Kapardika Bhasma, Cowrie Bhasma, Varatika Bhasma, & Kaudi Bhasma) is an ayurvedic calcined preparation used in abdominal diseases like abdominal pain, irritable bowel syndrome, bloating, duodenal ulcer and loss of appetite or poor appetite, intestinal gas.

However, it is hot in potency, but has alkaline effects in the stomach, which balances the acid secretion in the stomach. Thus, it gives relief in sour taste of the mouth, heartburn, and dyspepsia (indigestion).

Ingredients (Composition)

Kapardak Bhasma is prepared from Kapardika (Cowry Shell of Cypraea Moneta). Yellow colored cowry shells having weight of 3 to 5 grams are perfect for making cowrie bhasma.

Chemical Constitution

Kapardak Bhasma mainly contains calcium carbonate (CaCO₃). Other minerals are also present in it. The Inorganic and organic constituents present in it are as follows:

Ayurvedic Properties

Note: The action of Kapardika Bhasma is on KAPHA and VATA dosha according to the above ayurvedic properties, but it is also alkaline medicine, which balances the acid secretion in the stomach. According to ayurveda, PITTA has AMAL GUNA (sour quality). Cowry bhasma reduces the AMAL GUNA of the PITTA. Therefore, it is also considered as PITTASHAMAK (Pitta Pacifier).

Medicinal Properties

• Digestive Stimulant
• Antacid
• Anodyne
• Antispasmodic
• Carminative
• Antiemetic
• Aam Pachak (Detoxifier)
• Antiflatulent
• Antiulcerogenic
• Mucolytic
• Astringent

Therapeutic Indications

1. Abdominal pain
2. Bloating
3. Flatulence
4. Duodenal ulcer
5. Loss of appetite
6. Irritable bowel syndrome
7. Sour taste of the mouth
8. Dyspepsia (indigestion)
9. Otorrhea

Kapardak Bhasma Uses & Benefits

Kapardak Bhasma has high bioavailability, so it shows instant effects in some diseases. It reacts with stomach secretions, and neutralizes the acid. The main action of it is observed on AMA (toxins), which are producing due to poor digestion. It improves appetite and digestion, which helps to reduce AMA formation and eliminate the produced AMA.

Bloating & Intestinal Gas

Kapardak Bhasma has carminative, anti-flatulent, and VATASHAMAK action, which gives relief from the bloating or abdominal distension, intestinal gas and excessive flatulence. In such cases, it is used mixing with Cow’s Ghee and Misri (Sugar). Additionally, Arogyavardhini Vati is also helpful when used with Kapardak Bhasma in such cases.

Abdominal Pain

As discussed that Kapardak Bhasma has carminative and antispasmodic properties, which aids in abdominal pain and cramps. It is helpful when pain has dull character and accompanies with feeling of heaviness in the abdomen. It should be used along with Cow’s Ghee and Misri (Sugar).

Belching

Kapardika Bhasma is very useful for people with uncomfortable belching having sour taste in mouth or tasteless burp. It prevents gas formation by correcting digestion and acting on VATA in digestive system.

Vomiting in Hyperacidity

Kapardika Bhasma along with Swarna Makshik Bhasma is helpful in vomiting with sour vomitus and mucus content. It reduces AMAL GUNA of PITTA and prevents these symptoms.

Safety Profile

Kapardak Bhasma is considerably safe when used under supervision and in the recommended dosage and with appropriate adjuvants.

Side Effects

However, it does not show any side effect when used wisely with appropriate adjuvant according to the disease. It should not be kept on the tongue because if may cause fissures in your tongue. To avoid this side effect, you should always remember that it should be taken along with adjuvants like Cow’s Ghee, Giloy Sat, or honey.