Significance of Pancha-mrittika
Pancha-mrittika, according to Rasashastra, refers to two related concepts. Firstly, it denotes five specific kinds of earth: brick, red ochre, salt, ashes, and soil stirred up by white ants, collectively called mrit-panchaka. Secondly, it represents a mixture of brick, red ochre, ashes, and soil, which is utilized in the purification process of gold leaves. This highlights the significance of these materials in traditional practices related to metallurgy and alchemy.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Pancha-mrittika'
Pancha-mrittika in Hinduism signifies five earthly materials: brick, red ochre, salt, ashes, and ant-raised soil, utilized in purifying gold leaves and embodying essential elements in spiritual rituals and practices.
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 1: Initiation, Mercury and Laboratory
(1) The following five kinds of earth are called the pancha-mrittika, or mrit-panchaka: brick, red ochre, salt, ashes, and soil raised by white ants.[1]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances
(1) A mixture consisting of brick, red ochre, ashes, and soil used in the purification of gold leaves.[2]