Genotoxicity evaluation of certain Bhasmas using Micronucleus and Comet assays

Bhasmas, herbal preparations of ayurvedic origin, contain heavy metals in traces. Very little/ no published information is available on the preclinical toxicity or mutagenicity of these Bhasmas. Considering the recent controversy over the risk of toxic heavy metals in ayurvedic herbo-mineral preparations, we studied the genotoxic potential of few such preparations. Most popular Bhasmas were investigated Ras Manikya Ras, Lauha Bhasma, Tamra Bhasma and Kajjali Bhasma. A single dose (200mg/kg b.w) was administered orally to Wistar rats. Peripheral blood leukocytes and bone marrow samples were collected. Micronucleus assay and the comet assay were employed to study the endpoint of chromosomal damage and single / doublestrand DNA breaks. The results revealed lack of induction of Micronuclei or DNA damage as evidenced by the Comet assay, despite the presence of traces of transformed toxic heavy metals.