A new method for preparation of kajjali
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: A new method for preparation of kajjali
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Original source:
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Tarun Kumar Pramanik
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: A new method for preparation of kajjali
Year: 1996
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The article presents a novel method for the preparation of Kajjali, a significant alchemical substance in Ayurveda that combines mercury and sulphur. Traditionally, Kajjali has been made by grinding these two components over extended periods, often taking 40 to 60 hours. However, this extensive duration leads to high labor costs and time inefficiency. The new method proposed aims to enhance the efficiency of this process while maintaining the quality of the final product.
Enhancement of Kajjali Preparation: A New Grinding-Rubbing Method
The new preparation method involves a combination of initial rubbing and mechanical grinding. In this method, sulphur is first rubbed for 15 minutes before adding mercury, followed by a secondary grinding process in a mixer-grinder with intervals to prevent overheating. This technique significantly reduces the preparation time by 57% to 67% compared to the old traditional method. The results showed that not only was the preparation time halved, but the physical yield remained consistent with traditional methods, and the chemical composition of the finished Kajjali showed no significant differences. This demonstrates the method’s effectiveness in maintaining quality while enhancing efficiency.
Conclusion
The new grinding-rubbing method for preparing Kajjali represents a significant advancement in Ayurvedic practices, yielding considerable time and cost savings. With the reduced labor charges and negligible loss in product quality, this method offers a practical approach to Kajjali preparation. The author acknowledges the mentorship and support received during this research, highlighting the collaborative effort in advancing Ayurvedic alchemical practices. Overall, this new methodology could lead to broader applications in Ayurvedic pharmaceutical preparations, benefiting practitioners and patients alike.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Kajjali and how is it prepared?
Kajjali is a black powder made by rubbing mercury with sulphur and other materials without any liquid. The traditional method requires 40 to 60 hours, while a new grinding method significantly reduces preparation time.
What are the benefits of the new grinding-rubbing method?
The new grinding-rubbing method saves 57% to 67% of preparation time, reducing labor costs by at least 50%. The chemical properties of Kajjali produced by both methods remain approximately the same.
What ratios of mercury and sulphur were tested for Kajjali?
The study tested various ratios of mercury to sulphur: 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, and 1:6. Each ratio was prepared using both traditional and new methods for comparison.
What precautions should be taken when using a mixer-grinder?
When using a mixer-grinder, do not exceed 500 grams of material at once, operate for no more than 60 seconds, and ensure that melted sulphur is cooled before continuing the grinding process.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “A new method for preparation of kajjali”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Kajjali (Kajjalī):
Kajjali refers to a black powder formed by the meticulous rubbing of mercury and sulphur, critical in the preparation of mercurial formulations. Its significance lies in its transformative properties, altering the toxic nature of mercury, thereby making it an essential component in Ayurvedic treatments for enhancing efficacy and safety.
2) Rasashastra (Rasa-shastra, Rasaśāstra):
Rasasastra is a specialized branch within Ayurveda dedicated to the study and practice of alchemical processes involving metals and minerals. It underscores the significance of Rasa (mercury) and its derivatives in therapeutic formulations, illustrating the intricate practices involved in the preparation of substances like Kajjali.
3) Ayurveda (Āyurveda, Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a holistic healing system originating from ancient India, emphasizing balance among body, mind, and spirit. It utilizes natural substances, including herbs, minerals, and mercury-based formulations like Kajjali, to promote health and treat illnesses. A comprehensive understanding of Ayurveda underpins the methods and uses of Rasa (mercury) in treatments.
4) Quality:
Quality pertains to the standard or grade of medical products like Kajjali, influenced by preparation methods. The article discusses various processes to maintain optimal quality while reducing time and cost. Ensuring high quality is essential for the efficacy of Ayurvedic treatments and patient safety in therapeutic applications.
5) Rasa (Rasā, Rasha):
Rasa refers to mercury in the context of Ayurvedic medicine, regarded as a vital element in Rasashastra. The processing of Rasa is crucial for creating therapeutic compounds like Kajjali, achieving a balance between potency and safety through alchemical transformations that mitigate mercury's toxicity.
6) Substance:
Substance refers to the materials used in Ayurvedic preparations, particularly metals, minerals, and herbs. In the context of Kajjali, the substance includes mercury and sulphur, whose combination yields effective remedies. The selection and processing of these substances are crucial to achieving desirable therapeutic outcomes in Ayurvedic practice.
7) Medicine:
Medicine in this context encompasses the traditional healing practices of Ayurveda, which employ various formulations like Kajjali for treatment. It reflects the holistic approach to health, where personalized therapies are created from naturally derived substances, integrating extensive knowledge of herbal properties, alchemy, and the human body.
8) Science (Scientific):
Science signifies the methodical study and application of knowledge, particularly in the preparation and use of Ayurvedic medicines. The processes described for Kajjali preparation are based on scientific principles that govern the transformation of raw materials into efficacious therapeutic agents, blending traditional wisdom with systematic practice.
9) Fainting (Fainted):
Faint refers to the subtle color observed in the early stages of Kajjali preparation, particularly during its initial grinding. This term highlights the importance of visual cues in determining the quality and progress of Ayurvedic formulations, as the intended final product is characterized by a rich black hue, signifying its readiness.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘A new method for preparation of kajjali’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Rasachikitsa, Time taken, Pure mercury, Ayurvedic system, New method, Kajjali Preparation, Chemical analysis, Rasa Ratna Samuchhaya, Ancient Science of life, Labour cost, Laboratory procedures, Time saving, Acknowledgment, Khalwa.