Abstract

Dr. Niharika Meher*, Dr. Jitendra Kumar Chhatria, Dr. Guruprasanna Samal,
Prof. (Dr.) Rajib Kishore Jena

ABSTRACT

Rasashastra is a specialized branch of Ayurveda that focuses on the pharmaceutical processing and therapeutic application of metals, minerals, and mercury-based formulations through systematic procedures such as Sodhana (purification) and Mara?a (incineration). Kupipakwa Rasayana is an important pharmaceutical technique under Rasashastra, wherein drugs are prepared by controlled heating of ingredients in a sealed glass bottle (kupi) using graded temperature (krama agni). Rasasindura, a classical Kupipakwa Rasayana, is a Sagandha, Sagni and Bahirdhuma preparation indicated for various chronic and complex disorders due to its high potency, rapid action, and minimal dose requirement. In the present study, Rasasindura was prepared following classical textual references with standard pharmaceutical procedures. Parada (mercury) was purified using Lasuna (garlic) and Saindhava Lava?a, while Gandhaka (sulphur) was purified by the Dhalana method using cow ghee and cow milk. Equal quantities of purified Parada and Gandhaka were triturated to obtain Kajjali, which was further subjected to seven Bhavana with Va?ankura Swarasa. The Bhavita Kajjali was filled into a clay-smeared glass bottle and heated in a vertical electric muffle furnace through well-defined stages of Paka, including Gandhaka Jara?a and Sindoora formation. Classical observations such as colour change, fume emission, flame characteristics, and copper coin test were carefully noted to confirm the completion of each stage. After self-cooling, the bottle was broken, and bright red Rasasindoora deposited at the neck of the kupi was collected. The study highlights the importance of precise temperature regulation, careful observation of classical laksanas, and adherence to traditional methods to ensure the quality, safety, and efficacy of Rasasindoora. This work reinforces the scientific relevance of traditional Rasashastra procedures in the preparation of potent herbo-mineral formulations.