Significance of Cowri-shell
Cowri-shell, as outlined in Rasashastra, represents various uses of the cowrie shell in medicine. It can refer to the shell itself, burnt and powdered for medicinal mixtures, or used to contain ingredients during processing. The shells from a specific sea snail are incinerated, contributing to the mixture's properties. Cowri-shell is also recognized as a purifiable substance, playing a vital role as an ingredient in medical recipes, enhancing the overall medicinal efficacy of the preparations.
Synonyms: Cowrie
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Cowri-shell'
In Hinduism, Cowri-shell is interpreted as a vital component in medicinal preparations, contributing to the mixture's properties when burnt, powdered, or used as a vessel, highlighting its significance in traditional healing practices.
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 4: Iatrochemistry
(1) Refers to the incinerated shells of cowries, which are used as an ingredient in the preparation.[1] (2) Natural shells used to contain the formed powder during the heating process.[2] (3) Seashells from cowries that are included as an ingredient in the mix.[3] (4) Incinerated shells from cowrie, included in the medicinal recipe.[4] (5) Burnt and powdered components added to the mixture in the process of creating the medicine.[5]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 2: Minerals (uparasa)
(1) A type of substance, identified as varatika, that can be purified akin to anjanas.[6]