Samudraphenam
Samudraphenam / Sea foam / Sepia species
Minerals and Metals – Ayurvedic Usage of Samudraphenam
Samudraphena or Samudraphena (Cuttlefish bone) is an animal-based drug. It has high medicinal value, and hence, it is used in the treatment of various ailments related to eyes and ears. Owing to its immense therapeutic properties, Samudraphena has earned a special place in Ayurveda. In Rasashastra, it is one of the Pranija (Animal-based) Sudhavarga (Calcium Compound) Dravya. It is also known by other names, like Samudra Fin, Kadala Neere, Samudraphela, Jabdul Baher and Samudraphela.
It is mainly composed of Calcium Carbonate, which is about 80%. In addition to this, it has other elements like phosphate, silica, and sulphate.
Usage of Samudraphenam
To be used as a drug, Samudraphena must be purified. The outer surface is scraped clean and then powdered in a mortar and pestle. For purification, this fine powder is then soaked in lemon juice, and let to dry. Samudraphena is never used as a single drug. It is always combined with other herbs for its therapeutic purpose.
Dressing Wounds: It is mixed with honey in a specified proportion to dress wounds.
Corneal Opacity: Samudraphena is mixed with rock candy powder and used as a paste to treat corneal opacity.
Treats Ear Infection (Otitis): The roasted Samudraphena powder is used to relieve ear infections and drain the discharge. It is also known to lessen Kapha dosha.
It is also considered to be effective in treating eczema, or any other fungal skin condition.
Ayurvedic Properties of Samudraphenam
Ayurvedic properties of the medicine go as follows:
- Rasa (taste in the mouth): Kashaya (Astringent taste)
- Guna (Action related to Pharmacology): Ruksha (Dry in Quality)
- Karma: Lekhana (Scraping) Deepana (Appetizer) Panchana (digest or neutralise ama)
Side Effects of Samudraphenam
When consumed without purification, it is known to cause restlessness. However, it is also believed that people with weak body structure should avoid taking Samudraphenam.