Significance of Rock salt
Rock salt, a naturally occurring mineral primarily composed of sodium chloride, holds significant importance across various traditions such as Ayurveda, Rasashastra, and Dharmashastra. It is recognized for its medicinal properties, often included in formulations for ailments ranging from digestive issues to eye health. Rock salt is also recommended for use in culinary practices, Ayurvedic treatments, and therapeutic processes, highlighting its versatility. Additionally, it serves as a key ingredient in several medicinal recipes and practices, making it essential for health and wellness.
Synonyms: Sodium chloride, Sea salt
In Dutch: Steenzout; In Finnish: Vuorisuola; In Spanish: Sal de roca
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Rock salt'
In Buddhism, rock salt symbolizes a medicinal resource utilized by Bhikkhus for healing purposes, highlighting its significance in both physical health and spiritual practices within the monastic community.
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) A specific type of salt acknowledged for medicinal application among the Bhikkhus.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Rock salt'
Rock salt, or saindhava, in Hinduism is a revered mineral salt known for its medicinal properties, including digestive stimulation and improved eyesight, and is integral in traditional therapies, dietary practices, and various remedies.
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 4: Iatrochemistry
(1) A naturally occurring salt used in the formulation; it is part of the list of ingredients required for the medicine.[2] (2) Type of salt that is included in the mixture of three salts, used for its properties in the medicinal compound.[3] (3) Salt mined from rock formations, used in the preparation of pills.[4] (4) A natural mineral form of sodium chloride, used in the preparation of the medicine.[5] (5) One of the materials to be combined in the preparation of the medicine, indicating its role in healing.[6]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances
(1) A type of salt used in combination with other substances during the heating phase of gold incineration.[7] (2) A natural mineral form of sodium chloride used to purify copper leaves in the second process.[8] (3) Saindhava, a natural salt found in the Punjab and Sind regions.[9] (4) A mineral salt used in conjunction with other ingredients in the purification of gold.[10] (5) A type of salt that is found in specific regions, linked to digestive benefits and other health effects.[11]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 2: Minerals (uparasa)
(1) A crystalline mineral used in the second boiling process of Makshika.[12] (2) A type of salt that may be consumed in limited amounts by those who cannot avoid salt altogether while taking haritala.[13] (3) An ingredient in the third process, combined with lime juice to enhance the purification of Makshika.[14] (4) An additive mixed with other liquids in the purification process for Rasaka.[15]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 1: Initiation, Mercury and Laboratory
(1) A type of salt that is combined with mercury in the treatment process to improve its quality.[16] (2) Also known as saindhava, it is an ingredient used in boiling and mixing with mercury in the purification process.[17]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 5: Treatment of various afflictions
(1) Rock-salt is included in the preparation of collyrium for treating drowsiness.[18]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) A form of salt used in decoctions with herbs like Shunthi for digestive aid.[19] (2) An ingredient mixed with clarified butter to relieve scorpion bite pain.[20] (3) A mineral used in the preparation of various medicinal pastes and pills for treating eye and other ailments.[21]
From: Agni Purana
(1) A mineral salt commonly used in Ayurvedic practices and food preparations for improving health.[22] (2) A mineral salt that is suggested to be consumed to alleviate effects from snake bites.[23]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) A type of salt mentioned in the context of preparation with bitter luffa and flesh of wet-land creatures.[24] (2) Regarded as the best of salts, it is known for being appetizing, a digestive stimulant, and curative while improving eye-sight.[25]
From: Bhesajjakkhandhaka (Chapter on Medicine)
(1) A form of salt that is white in color and arises from mountainous areas.[26]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Salt in its solid form, included under the broader category of stones and explicitly forbidden from being sold.[27] (2) Natural salt that is not prepared or processed by the individual, which is deemed unsuitable according to the stated guidelines.[28]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) A common substance used in various mixtures aimed at improving health and enhancing sexual energy.[29]
The concept of Rock salt in local and regional sources
Rock salt, also known for its crystalline form, is primarily utilized in medicinal and culinary contexts, highlighting its versatility as a natural mineral essential for various applications in health and cooking.
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) Salt collected in crystal form, typically used for medicinal or culinary purposes.[30]
The concept of Rock salt in scientific sources
Rock salt, a mineral ingredient in Siddha formulations, is noted for its potential as an osmotic purgative, which implies it can promote bowel movements by drawing water into the intestines.
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) A mineral used in traditional medicine known for its health benefits including promoting digestion.[31] (2) A mineral, primarily sodium chloride, used for its digestive benefits and occurs naturally in sedimentary rocks.[32] (3) The common name for Saindhava lavana, a component used in the formulation of Ashtamangala Ghrita.[33] (4) A natural supplement that can provide health benefits, found in various forms and primarily consisting of sodium chloride and trace minerals.[34]
From: Ancient Science of Life
(1) Used in Uttara Basti for its scraping properties, aiding in removing fibrotic tissue during treatment of stricture.[35]
From: International Ayurvedic Medical Journal
(1) A mineral ingredient in Siddha formulations that may serve as an osmotic purgative.[36]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine
(1) A type of salt used in various therapeutic practices, including as an additive in oil enemas.[37]