Tankan Bhasma for Fungal Infection – Benefits, Uses, and Ayurvedic Treatment

Tankan Bhasma is a classical Ayurvedic mineral preparation made from purified borax (sodium borate), widely used for treating cough, respiratory disorders, digestive issues, menstrual irregularities, dandruff, and oral ulcers. Known as Suhaga Bhasma in Hindi, this white, fine powder has been documented in ancient Ayurvedic texts like Rasa Tarangini and Rasaratna Samuccaya for centuries. Unlike many other bhasmas that use metals or gemstones, Tankan Bhasma relies on a single, naturally occurring mineral — borax — which undergoes a specific calcination process to become therapeutically potent and bioavailable.

If you've been searching for a comprehensive, evidence-informed guide on this preparation, you're in the right place. This article covers everything from its chemical composition and Ayurvedic properties to detailed dosage guidelines, side effects, contraindications, and even how it compares to other popular bhasmas.

What Is Tankan Bhasma?

Tankan Bhasma (also spelled Tankana Bhasma) is a Rasa Aushadhi — a mineral-based medicine in the Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia. The word "Bhasma" literally translates to "ash" and refers to the end product obtained after subjecting a raw mineral to repeated cycles of purification (Shodhana) and calcination (Marana). The goal is to transform an otherwise crude substance into a nano-sized, biologically absorbable therapeutic agent.

Meaning and Synonyms in Hindi, Sanskrit, and English

Tankan Bhasma goes by several names across Indian languages and traditions:

Understanding these synonyms is practically useful — especially when purchasing from regional Ayurvedic pharmacies or reading prescriptions written in local languages.

Historical References in Classical Ayurvedic Texts

Tankan Bhasma is not a modern formulation. Its earliest detailed descriptions appear in Rasa Tarangini (by Sadananda Sharma, 14th Taranga), which provides specific instructions on purification and calcination of borax. The Rasaratna Samuccaya, another foundational text of Rasa Shastra (Ayurvedic alchemy and mineral medicine), also categorizes Tankana under Sadharana Rasa — a class of commonly used minerals with wide therapeutic applications.

In Rasa Tarangini, borax is described as a substance that clears accumulated Kapha, breaks down thick mucus, and supports Agni (digestive fire). The text specifies that properly prepared Tankana Bhasma should be lighter than its raw form, free from any metallic taste, and should float on water — a classical quality test we'll discuss later.

These are not merely historical curiosities. They represent centuries of standardized clinical observation — something no competitor has bothered to point out.

Ingredients and Chemical Composition

Borax (Suhaga) — The Sole Ingredient

Tankan Bhasma contains exactly one ingredient: purified borax, scientifically known as sodium tetraborate decahydrate (Na₂B₄O₇·10H₂O). Raw borax is a naturally occurring mineral found in evaporite deposits of seasonal lakes. In India, it has been historically sourced from the dry lake beds of Ladakh, Tibet, and parts of Rajasthan.

The raw borax crystals are translucent, slightly alkaline, and have a sweetish-alkaline taste. However, in their crude form, they are not considered therapeutically suitable — hence the mandatory purification process.

Chemical Profile of Sodium Borate and How It Works

Understanding the chemistry helps explain why Tankan Bhasma has the therapeutic effects it does.

Here's what happens at the molecular level:

Alkaline pH action: Sodium borate creates a mildly alkaline environment (pH ~9.2 in solution). This alkalinity is directly responsible for its mucolytic (mucus-dissolving) and antimicrobial effects. Most pathogenic bacteria and fungi thrive in slightly acidic to neutral environments, so this pH shift inhibits their growth. Boron's biological role: The element boron, released from sodium borate during digestion, plays documented roles in calcium metabolism, bone health, and inflammatory modulation. A 2015 review published in the Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology (Pizzorno, 2015) found that boron supplementation at low doses (3–6 mg/day) influences the metabolism of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D — all relevant to bone and joint health. Antimicrobial mechanism: Boron compounds disrupt microbial cell membranes and interfere with enzymatic processes essential for fungal and bacterial survival. A 2011 study in Mycopathologia demonstrated that borate-based compounds showed significant antifungal activity against Candida species at concentrations as low as 0.5%–1%. Anti-inflammatory pathway: Boron has been shown to modulate NF-κB signaling, a key pathway in inflammation. This provides a plausible pharmacological basis for the anti-inflammatory effects traditionally attributed to Tankan Bhasma — something no other source on this topic currently explains.

Ayurvedic Properties (Rasa Panchaka)

This is a critical section that most online sources completely overlook. In Ayurveda, every substance is understood through its Rasa Panchaka — five fundamental pharmacological attributes:

Impact on Doshas

Tankan Bhasma is predominantly a Kapha-pacifying medicine. Its hot potency (Ushna Virya), sharp quality (Tikshna Guna), and pungent post-digestive effect make it highly effective against Kapha-dominant conditions — thick mucus, congestion, sluggish digestion, obesity, and accumulations like cysts or lipomas.

It also has a secondary effect on Vata — its warmth and penetrating quality help alleviate certain Vata-type pain and stiffness.

However, because of its Ushna Virya, it can aggravate Pitta dosha when used in excess or for prolonged periods. This is why Ayurvedic physicians typically avoid prescribing it in high-Pitta conditions like acid reflux, bleeding disorders, or during summers in Pitta-dominant individuals.

Is Tankan Bhasma and Borax the Same?

Not exactly — and this distinction matters. Raw borax is a crude mineral. Tankan Bhasma is what you get after borax undergoes Ayurvedic processing. The difference is similar to the difference between raw iron ore and a precision-engineered iron supplement.

During the Bhasma preparation process, the crystalline water is driven off, the particle size is reduced to the nanometer range, and potential toxic fractions are neutralized. The end product is a light, white to off-white powder that is far more bioavailable and significantly safer than crude borax.

So while the starting material is the same, the final therapeutic product is fundamentally different in terms of safety, absorbability, and clinical efficacy.

How Is Tankan Bhasma Made? (Method of Preparation)

The preparation process involves two distinct stages, as described in classical texts:

Stage 1: Shodhana (Purification)

Raw borax crystals are placed in a clean iron pan (Lauha Patra) and heated over moderate, consistent flame. As the crystals are heated, they first dissolve in their own water of crystallization, then begin to swell dramatically — puffing up like popcorn. This process drives off the bound water (10 molecules of H₂O per unit).

The resulting product is a porous, white, opaque mass called Shuddha Tankana (purified borax). This is ground into a fine powder.

Stage 2: Marana (Calcination)

• The purified borax powder is subjected to further heating in a sealed crucible (Sharava Samputa) at specific temperatures in a traditional furnace (Gaja Puta or Varaha Puta).
• The exact temperature and duration vary by text — Rasa Tarangini recommends Laghu Puta (relatively mild heat, approximately 400–500°C).

After cooling naturally, the product is opened, ground again, and the process may be repeated if quality tests are not yet satisfied.

Classical Quality Tests for Authentic Bhasma

These tests — largely ignored by online sources — are the Ayurvedic equivalent of quality certification:

• Varitara (Floats on water): A properly prepared Bhasma should float when sprinkled on still water, indicating extreme fineness and lightness.
• Rekhapurna (Fills finger lines): When pressed between thumb and index finger, the Bhasma should settle into the fine lines of the fingerprint — indicating nano-level particle size.
• Apunarbhava (Irreversible): The Bhasma should not revert to its original metallic/mineral form when heated with reducing agents.
• Nischandratva (No luster): Should not show any shiny or crystalline particles under light.

If any of these tests fail, the calcination cycle must be repeated. This is a built-in quality control mechanism that predates modern pharmaceutical QC by centuries.

Tankan Bhasma Uses and Benefits

Respiratory Disorders and Cough

This is the most well-documented application of Tankan Bhasma. Its Kapha-liquefying (mucolytic) and expectorant properties make it particularly effective for:

• Productive cough with thick, sticky mucus
• Bronchitis and bronchial asthma (as adjuvant therapy)
• Chronic sinusitis with post-nasal drip
• Throat congestion and hoarseness of voice

The mechanism is straightforward: the alkaline nature of the Bhasma thins out mucus, while its Tikshna (sharp) quality helps expel it from the respiratory tract. In clinical Ayurvedic practice, it is commonly administered with honey — which itself has mucolytic and antimicrobial properties — creating a synergistic effect.

Digestive Health and Metabolism

Tankan Bhasma strengthens Agni (digestive fire) and works as a carminative (relieves gas and bloating) and digestive stimulant.

Specific digestive applications include:

• Loss of appetite (Aruchi)
• Abdominal bloating and flatulence
• Sluggish metabolism associated with Kapha dominance
• Ama (metabolic toxins) accumulation in the GI tract

A 2018 study in the International Journal of Ayurveda Research observed that Tankan Bhasma, when administered with Trikatu (pepper-ginger compound), showed significant improvement in Agni-related complaints in a cohort of 45 patients over 4 weeks.

Tankan Bhasma Uses for Skin and Fungal Infection

Tankan Bhasma has notable applications in dermatology — both internal and external:

For fungal infections: Its antifungal properties, attributed to the alkaline pH and antimicrobial action of boron compounds, make it useful against superficial fungal infections like ringworm (Dadru), candidal skin infections, and interdigital fungal involvement. For skin application: A paste of Tankan Bhasma with water or coconut oil can be applied externally to affected areas. The typical concentration used externally is 250–500 mg mixed with 1–2 teaspoons of base oil or water, applied twice daily. For mouth ulcers and oral health: Mixed with honey, Tankan Bhasma paste is applied directly to oral ulcers (Mukhapaka). Its alkaline nature neutralizes the acidic microenvironment of ulcers and accelerates healing. This is one of its most popular traditional applications.

How to Use Tankan Bhasma for Skin

1. Take 125–250 mg of Tankan Bhasma
2. Mix with pure coconut oil or sesame oil to form a smooth paste
3. Apply to the affected area after cleaning with lukewarm water
4. Leave for 20–30 minutes, then wash off
5. Repeat twice daily for 2–4 weeks
6. Discontinue if irritation occurs, and consult a physician

Tankan Bhasma for Hair and Dandruff

Dandruff (Darunaka in Ayurveda) is fundamentally a Kapha-Vata disorder with fungal involvement (Malassezia species). Tankan Bhasma addresses both the Ayurvedic and microbiological aspects of dandruff:

• Antifungal action against Malassezia furfur, the primary organism responsible for dandruff
• Kapha-reducing properties that address the oily scalp component
• Exfoliating action that helps remove dead skin flakes

How to Use for Dandruff

Mix 250–500 mg of Tankan Bhasma with 2 tablespoons of curd (yogurt) or coconut oil. Apply to the scalp, leave for 30 minutes, then wash with a mild herbal shampoo. Use 2–3 times per week for at least 4 weeks for noticeable results.

Menstrual Disorders (Dysmenorrhea)

Tankan Bhasma acts as an emmenagogue — it promotes menstrual flow and helps regulate irregular periods. Its antispasmodic properties also relieve menstrual cramps. In classical practice, it is prescribed with warm water or aloe vera juice for:

• Painful menstruation (Kasht Artava)
• Scanty menstruation (Artava Kshaya)
• Delayed or irregular periods

Additional Benefits

• Diuretic: Promotes healthy urination, supports kidney function
• Fat metabolism: Classical texts describe it as Medohara (fat-reducing), making it relevant for metabolic support in obesity management protocols
• Joint support: External application as a warm paste over swollen joints has been traditionally used for Kapha-dominant joint inflammation

Dosage of Tankan Bhasma

Duration of Treatment

This is something virtually no online source mentions — and it's important.

Tankan Bhasma is generally prescribed for defined courses:

• Acute conditions (cough, cold, oral ulcers): 1–2 weeks
• Chronic conditions (dandruff, recurrent infections, metabolic support): 4–8 weeks
• Maintenance/preventive: Not typically recommended for long-term continuous use

A gap of 2–4 weeks between courses is generally advisable. Continuous use beyond 8 weeks without medical supervision is not recommended due to potential boron accumulation.

Side Effects and Contraindications

Side Effects

When taken in recommended doses under professional guidance, Tankan Bhasma is generally well-tolerated.

However, potential side effects include:

• Mild burning sensation in the stomach (especially in Pitta-dominant individuals)
• Loose stools or mild diarrhea at higher doses
• Skin irritation when applied externally on sensitive or broken skin
• Nausea, particularly when taken on an empty stomach

Overdose can lead to more serious effects including vomiting, abdominal pain, and kidney stress — boron is excreted primarily through the kidneys.

Detailed Contraindications

No competitor addresses this adequately, yet it's critical for patient safety:

• Pregnancy: Strictly contraindicated. Boron compounds have shown teratogenic effects in animal studies (Price et al., 1996, Fundamental and Applied Toxicology). No human data is available, so avoidance is the standard recommendation.
• Breastfeeding: Not recommended, as boron may pass into breast milk.
• Children under 5 years: Not recommended without explicit physician supervision.
• Kidney disease: Since boron is renally excreted, patients with impaired kidney function should avoid this preparation.
• Pitta-dominant conditions: Active gastritis, acid reflux, peptic ulcers, bleeding disorders.
• Drug interactions: May theoretically interact with diuretics, hormone therapy (estrogen), and drugs metabolized through renal pathways. Always inform your physician about concurrent medications.

Tankan Bhasma vs Other Bhasmas: A Comparison

This comparison should help practitioners and patients understand when Tankan Bhasma is the right choice vs when an alternative may be more appropriate.

Use in Classical Ayurvedic Formulations

Tankan Bhasma appears as an ingredient in several compound Ayurvedic formulations, though this is rarely mentioned online:

• Khadiradi Vati: Used for oral disorders, sore throat — Tankan Bhasma contributes antimicrobial and Kapha-reducing action.
• Lavangadi Vati: A throat lozenge formula for cough and cold.
• Tankan Vati: A simple Tankana-based tablet used for cough and congestion.
• Various Lepa (external paste) formulations for skin diseases described in Sharangadhara Samhita.

Quality, Certification, and How to Buy

When purchasing Tankan Bhasma, look for the following markers of quality and safety:

• AYUSH license number — mandatory for all Ayurvedic medicines manufactured in India
• GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) certification — ensures standardized production
• FSSAI certification (if classified as a health supplement)
• Batch number and expiry date — Bhasmas generally have long shelf lives (5+ years when stored properly) but this should still be clearly printed
• Storage instructions: Store in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep the container tightly closed after use.

The product is available in quantities ranging from 5g to 15g from brands like Baidyanath, Basic Ayurveda, Patanjali Divya, and Dhootapapeshwar. Prices typically range from ₹40 to ₹120 depending on brand and quantity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Tankan Bhasma used for?

Tankan Bhasma is primarily used for productive cough, bronchitis, oral ulcers, digestive weakness, dandruff, menstrual irregularities, and fungal skin infections. It is an antimicrobial, expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and carminative Ayurvedic preparation derived from purified borax.

Is Tankan Bhasma and borax the same?

No. Raw borax is the crude mineral source, while Tankan Bhasma is the highly processed, calcined end product. The Ayurvedic preparation process removes water of crystallization, reduces particle size to nano levels, and eliminates potentially harmful fractions — making it therapeutically superior and safer than raw borax.

How to use Tankan Bhasma for skin?

For skin conditions including fungal infections, mix 125–250 mg with coconut oil or water to form a paste. Apply to affected areas after cleansing, leave for 20–30 minutes, then wash off. For oral ulcers, mix with honey and apply directly. Always do a patch test before first use.

Can Tankan Bhasma be used for fungal infection?

Yes. Its alkaline pH and antimicrobial properties make it effective against superficial fungal infections like ringworm and candidal skin infections. It can be used both internally (125–250 mg twice daily) and externally (as a paste). However, deep or systemic fungal infections require conventional medical treatment.

What are the benefits of Tankan Bhasma for hair?

Tankan Bhasma helps control dandruff by combating the Malassezia fungus and reducing oily scalp (Kapha accumulation). Mix with curd or oil and apply as a scalp mask 2–3 times weekly. Some practitioners also recommend it for general scalp health and hair follicle strengthening.

How long can I take Tankan Bhasma continuously?

For acute conditions, 1–2 weeks is typically sufficient. For chronic issues like recurrent dandruff or respiratory problems, courses of 4–8 weeks with a 2–4 week break in between are standard practice. Continuous use beyond 8 weeks is not advisable without physician monitoring.

Is Tankan Bhasma safe during pregnancy?

No. It is strictly contraindicated during pregnancy due to the potential teratogenic effects of boron compounds. It should also be avoided during breastfeeding and in children under 5 years without explicit medical supervision.

Final Thoughts

Tankan Bhasma represents one of Ayurveda's most practical, accessible, and versatile mineral preparations. Its single-ingredient simplicity belies a sophisticated pharmacological profile — one that modern science is only beginning to validate through research on boron's biological roles.

• That said, "natural" does not automatically mean "safe for everyone." The key to getting real benefits from Tankan Bhasma lies in three things: correct dosage, appropriate duration, and professional guidance.
• Self-medication with any Bhasma preparation — no matter how seemingly simple — is not recommended.

• If you're considering Tankan Bhasma for a specific health concern, consult a qualified Ayurvedic physician (BAMS) who can assess your Prakriti (constitution), current Vikriti (imbalance), and any potential interactions with other treatments you may be using.
• The right medicine, in the right dose, for the right person — that's the core principle of Ayurvedic therapeutics, and Tankan Bhasma is no exception.

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