Effect of ingestion of copper bhasm on red cell indices, iron parameters and essential elements in chicks.

In order to scientifically evaluate the effect of copper bhasm, it was orally administered in a dose of 2 mg/day for seven days to one month old male chicks. There was significant fall in total red cells, and rise in plasma iron, PCV and MCV indicating hemolysis, compensated by increased heme synthesis. A significant increase in plasma iron binding capacity points to beneficial effect of copper bhasm on liver as transferrin is synthesized in liver. Ferritin (storage iron) was unaltered in seven days treatment. The effect of copper bhasm on tissue distribution of essential elements was variable. Calcium, sodium and potassium were significantly increased in all the tissues. The last two may have been contributed by the bhasm itself. Magnesium behaviour was similar to calcium. Iron and zinc showed variable effects. Copper level in whole blood, plasma and erythrocytes increased significantly showing that copper bhasm was well absorbed and the effect observed can be ascribed to it. The bhasm was well tolerated and no growth retardation was seen.