Nanostructured gold in ancient Ayurvedic calcined drug ‘swarnabhasma’

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Journal name: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine
Original article title: Nanostructured gold in ancient Ayurvedic calcined drug ‘swarnabhasma’
The Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine (JAIM) is an open-access publication promoting collaboration between Ayurveda, traditional medicine, and biomedicine, publishing research on integrative health sciences
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Original source:

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Author:

Trupti Patil-Bhole, Asmita Wele, Ramacharya Gudi, Kapil Thakur, Shailesh Nadkarni, Rajendra Panmand, Bharat Kale


Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine:

(A monthly peer-reviewed publication)

Full text available for: Nanostructured gold in ancient Ayurvedic calcined drug ‘swarnabhasma’

Year: 2021 | Doi: 10.1016/j.jaim.2021.06.017

Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-ND 4.0


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Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Nanostructured gold in ancient Ayurvedic calcined drug ‘swarnabhasma’”. 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) Gold (Golden):
Gold is a noble metal recognized for its medicinal properties, particularly in Ayurveda. It is utilized in the preparation of bhasmas, ancient medicinal powders. Its stability, non-reactivity, and potential pharmacological effects make it a valuable component in traditional medicine systems, especially when processed into nanoparticles for enhanced activity.

2) Bhasma (Bhasman):
Bhasma refers to a calcined form of metals in Ayurvedic medicine. It is created through a meticulous process of incineration, transforming metals like gold into fine powders believed to enhance their therapeutic properties. Bhasma preparation is an ancient practice crucial for the efficacy of Ayurvedic treatments.

3) Table:
In the context of this research, a table may refer to a systematic representation of data, allowing for clear visualization of the results and findings associated with swarnabhasma and its characteristics. Such tables are essential in scientific literature for summarizing and organizing experimental results for better understanding.

4) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases, and in this context, it refers specifically to Ayurvedic practices that utilize bhasmas like swarnabhasma. The transformative approach of Ayurveda emphasizes holistic healing, often integrating natural materials to foster health and wellness.

5) Study (Studying):
Study refers to an investigation aimed at understanding the characteristics and potential benefits of swarnabhasma, an Ayurvedic preparation of gold. This research is crucial for validating traditional practices through modern scientific methods, thus bridging ancient knowledge with contemporary approaches to healthcare and medicine.

6) Drug:
In this context, drug refers to any substance used for medical purposes, specifically focusing on swarnabhasma as an Ayurvedic formulation. The role of gold in these drugs is to enhance therapeutic effects, targeting various ailments while ensuring safety, particularly in nanomedicine applications.

7) Rasashastra (Rasa-shastra, Rasasastra):
Rasasastra is the specialized branch of Ayurveda focusing on chemical and alchemical preparations. It outlines methods for transforming metals and minerals into therapeutic substances, offering essential insights into the production of formulations like swarnabhasma, reinforcing traditional techniques with scientific validation.

8) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine emphasizing a holistic approach to health, focusing on balance within the body, mind, and environment. It utilizes natural substances, including bhasmas, in its therapies, and is recognized for its potential in promoting wellness and preventing disease.

9) Water:
Water is a vital element in Ayurvedic practices, often used in various purification and preparation processes. Its role extends to the preparation of medicinal formulations, including bhasmas. In studies involving swarnabhasma, the interaction of water with these formulations can influence its stability and efficacy.

10) Silver:
Silver is another precious metal often studied alongside gold in Ayurvedic formulations. It serves both historical and contemporary roles in medicine, particularly in its use in diagnostic tests and as a component in various bhasma preparations. Its unique properties contribute to its application in traditional healing.

11) Cancer:
Cancer is a significant focus of modern medical research, and the investigation of swarnabhasma includes its potential role in oncology. Ayurvedic preparations, particularly those involving nanoparticles, are being explored for their effects on cancer cells as part of a broader understanding of alternative therapies.

12) Niruttha (Nir-uttha):
Niruttha is a traditional Ayurvedic test verifying the purity and quality of bhasma like swarnabhasma. It assesses whether the bhasma retains its characteristics when heated, ensuring that no metallic properties remain. This test is critical for confirming the proper transformation of materials during preparation.

13) Surface:
Surface refers to the outermost layer of particles in nanomaterials like swarnabhasma. The surface area of nanoparticles significantly influences their reactivity and bioavailability, impacting how they interact with biological systems and enhancing their medicinal properties in treatments.

14) Powder:
Powder in this context indicates the final form of bhasma, which is derived from calcined metals like gold. The fineness of the powder is essential for effective absorption and action in the body, making the preparation process critical in Ayurveda for optimizing therapeutic outcomes.

15) Heating:
Heating is a key process in the preparation of bhasmas such as swarnabhasma. It involves controlled incineration to transform metals into medicinal powders through specific temperatures and durations, essential for activating their therapeutic properties and ensuring safety in Ayurvedic applications.

16) Nature:
Nature refers to the inherent characteristics of substances like swarnabhasma and influences on their medicinal efficacy. Understanding the nature of materials helps in the formulation of Ayurvedic medicines and evaluating their biological interactions, especially in the context of nanotechnology and applied therapies.

17) India:
India is the birthplace of Ayurveda and Rasashastra, where traditional knowledge systems have developed over thousands of years. The cultural and historical context of Ayurvedic practices in India is fundamental to understanding the scientific research conducted on ancient drugs like swarnabhasma.

18) Activity:
Activity refers to the therapeutic efficacy and biological actions of substances, such as swarnabhasma and its potential applications in treating various diseases. Understanding how these preparations interact at the cellular level is key for integrating traditional practices with modern medicine.

19) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma is a common Indian surname and may refer to one of the contributors or authors of the study. In the context of published research, individuals like Sharma may have contributed to the methodologies or findings related to swarnabhasma and its characterization.

20) Honey:
Honey is often used in Ayurveda not only for its natural sweetness but also for its therapeutic properties. As an anupana (vehicle) for administering bhasmas, it enhances absorption and effectiveness of preparations like swarnabhasma, playing a vital role in traditional formulations.

21) Ghi (Ghee):
Ghee, or clarified butter, is a prominent ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine, valued for its health benefits. In the context of swarnabhasma, it serves as an anupana, aiding the delivery of therapeutic agents and improving their efficacy through lipid-based absorption pathways.

22) Indian:
Indian refers to the cultural context where Ayurvedic practices originate. The methodologies, ingredients, and approaches described in studies like swarnabhasma preparation reflect the rich heritage of India and its ancient medicinal traditions that continue to impact modern healthcare.

23) Puta:
Puta refers to the traditional earthen pit used in the incineration process of bhasma preparation. This method is fundamental in Ayurvedic practices, allowing for the controlled application of heat essential for converting metals into their medicinal ash form, ensuring therapeutic efficacy.

24) Purification:
Purification is a critical process in preparing Ayurvedic medicines to eliminate impurities and enhance medicinal properties. The methods of purification in swarnabhasma preparation involve specific techniques to refine components like gold, mercury, and sulfur before combining them in bhasma formulations.

25) Apunarbhava (Apunar-bhava):
Apunarbhava is a traditional Ayurvedic test used to ensure that no metallic particles are present in prepared bhasma. It confirms the complete transformation of a substance from metal to medicinal ash, which is essential for validating the safety and efficacy of Ayurvedic preparations.

26) Nirdhuma (Nir-dhuma):
Nirdhuma is another Ayurvedic test that evaluates the behavior of bhasma when subjected to intense heat. It checks for the absence of harmful emissions, ensuring that the bhasma remains safe and effective for consumption after preparation, reinforcing the quality control aspect of Ayurvedic medicine.

27) Patil:
Patil is a surname likely associated with the authors contributing to the research study. It represents individuals actively participating in the exploration and documentation of traditional Ayurvedic methods and their scientific evaluation, contributing to the understanding of preparations like swarnabhasma.

28) Line:
Line may refer to a methodological line of inquiry or reasoning present in the research study. It also could indicate a conceptual line between traditional Ayurvedic practices and modern scientific validation, highlighting the ongoing dialogue between ancient wisdom and contemporary research.

29) Soil:
Soil plays a foundational role in Ayurveda, as it is the source of many medicinal plants that are used in formulations. Understanding soil health and its properties is crucial for sustainable agricultural practices supporting the longevity and efficacy of Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia.

30) Bharati:
Bharati may refer to Bharati Vidyapeeth, the institution associated with the research study. It represents the academic environment where traditional knowledge and modern scientific methods converge, fostering research that validates and explores Ayurvedic practices.

31) Jaggery:
Jaggery, a traditional Indian sweetener, plays a significant role in Ayurveda as a healthful alternative to refined sugar. It is used in various formulations as an anupana for bhasmas, enhancing their taste and medicinal efficacy through its nutritional properties.

32) Mishra (Misra):
Mishra is likely the surname of one of the authors involved in the research, possibly contributing to the methodologies and analysis of swarnabhasma. The presence of such contributors highlights collaboration in exploring ancient sciences through scientific lenses.

33) Field:
Field refers to various fields of study or research, particularly in the context of the experiments associated with the physicochemical properties of swarnabhasma. It denotes the scope of investigation that encompasses traditional medicine, toxicology, and nanotechnology.

34) Borax:
Borax is a naturally occurring mineral often used in purification processes in Ayurveda. Within the preparation of swarnabhasma, it may play a role in refining materials and ensuring that the final products meet the quality standards required for safe consumption.

35) Lemon:
Lemon, particularly its juice, is utilized in the preparation of swarnabhasma. It acts as a natural reducing agent in the amalgamation process with gold and mercury, contributing beneficial properties while also enhancing the overall efficacy of the Ayurvedic formulation.

36) Rada:
Rada may refer to traditional terminology pertaining to the Ayurvedic preparation involving mercury. It highlights the historical context and cultural significance of this element in Ayurvedic formulations, influencing both the methodology and the resulting therapeutic potential of the products.

37) Life:
Life represents the core philosophy underpinning Ayurveda, which aims to enhance the quality of life through health and wellness. The investigation of medicines like swarnabhasma points toward the broader goal of sustaining sustainable well-being, emphasizing harmony between body, mind, and environment.

38) Varitaratva:
Varitaratva is a traditional Ayurvedic test that examines the lightness of bhasma by observing its ability to float when sprinkled upon water. This characteristic is essential in confirming the quality and efficacy of Ayurvedic preparations, emphasizing safety and proper transformation of metals.

39) Science (Scientific):
Science refers to the systematic study of the physical and natural world through observation and experimentation. In the context of Ayurvedic medicine, this entails using scientific methods to validate and explore the principles underlying traditional formulations like swarnabhasma, enhancing their applicability in modern medicine.

40) Knowledge:
Knowledge encompasses the accumulated understanding and insights derived from both traditional Ayurvedic practices and modern scientific explorations. It is essential for advancing methodologies and applications of preparations like swarnabhasma, facilitating a nuanced dialogue across disciplines to promote effective use of ancient medicinal substances.

41) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
Transform refers to the process of converting raw materials into usable medicinal forms, which is a cornerstone of Rasashastra. The transformation of gold and mercury into swarnabhasma exemplifies this, highlighting how traditional practices achieve therapeutic efficacy through careful manipulation of substances.

42) Varanasi (Varanashi):
Varanasi is a significant city in India known for its historical and cultural relevance, particularly in Ayurveda and Hindu philosophy. Research related to swarnabhasma often draws from this rich heritage, reflecting traditional practices in medicine and the study of medicinal plants in the region.

43) Madhu:
Madhu translates to honey in Sanskrit and is integral in Ayurvedic formulations. It acts as a natural sweetener and vehicle (anupana) for delivering medicines like swarnabhasma, enhancing their absorption and effectiveness while providing additional health benefits from its own properties.

44) Earth:
Earth holds significance in Ayurveda, denoting the physical aspect of the environment that supports the growth of medicinal plants used in traditional treatments. It connects natural processes to human health, emphasizing the holistic relationship between nature and wellness in Ayurvedic philosophy.

45) Blood:
Blood represents a critical aspect in Ayurveda, as numerous treatments aim to enhance blood health and circulation. The interactions of preparations like swarnabhasma with bodily systems, including blood, underscore the holistic understanding of healing in Ayurvedic medicine.

46) Shri (Sri, Sr):
Shree may denote the respected title or designation associated with organizations or individuals in the context of Ayurvedic research. It symbolizes the reverence attributed to traditional knowledge and practices, particularly when linked to institutional research in the exploration of formulations like swarnabhasma.

47) Gudi:
Gudi might refer to a contributor or organization involved in the research of swarnabhasma. This indicates collaborative efforts among researchers to scientifically validate Ayurvedic practices while preserving the integrity of traditional knowledge in modern contexts.

48) Pune:
Pune is a city in India where significant research in traditional and modern medicine takes place. The mention of Pune in the context of the study denotes a hub of knowledge integration, where Ayurvedic principles and scientific methodologies converge.

49) Rice (Rce):
Rice is often utilized symbolically in various Ayurvedic processes, reflecting the agricultural foundation of Ayurvedic practices. It may also serve as a practical test substance in various experiments, highlighting the interconnectedness of food, medicine, and cultural practices within Ayurveda.

50) Milk:
Milk, particularly cow's milk, is considered a sacred and nutritious substance in Ayurveda. It acts as an anupana for various preparations, contributing to their efficacy and enhancing the overall health benefits associated with traditional medicinal consumption.

51) Anka (Amka):
Anka refers to borax in Sanskrit, which is used in Ayurvedic practices for purification. Its role in the preparation of swarnabhasma exemplifies the importance of integrating various natural substances within the purification processes of traditional medicine to ensure quality and safety.

52) clarified butter:
Clarified butter, or ghee, is crucial in Ayurveda for its health benefits. It is often used alongside other ingredients in bhasma preparations, facilitating effective delivery of active compounds while also contributing its own nutritional properties to enhance overall well-being.

53) Rock salt:
Rock salt is used in Ayurveda for its mineral content and therapeutic properties. It may be involved in the purification processes or formulations of swarnabhasma, enhancing its medicinal qualities and serving as an important ingredient in traditional Ayurvedic remedies.

54) Cow dung:
Cow dung is significant in Ayurveda as a traditionally utilized material for fuel and in preparation processes. It signifies the integration of natural resources into Ayurvedic methods, reflecting the holistic perspective linking health, environment, and community practices.

55) Transmission:
Transmission refers to the method of conveying knowledge, especially in the context of research findings and Ayurvedic practices. Proper transmission of techniques and principles ensures continuity and integrity of traditional knowledge while fostering understanding within modern scientific frameworks.

56) Agriculture:
Agriculture plays a foundational role in Ayurveda, providing an array of medicinal plants used in formulations like swarnabhasma. Sustainable agricultural practices are essential for ensuring the quality and availability of these natural resources, crucial for the continuity of Ayurvedic medicine.

57) Bhaishajya (Bhaisajya):
Bhaishajya refers to the formulations or medicines used in Ayurveda. The study of bhaishajya emphasizes the need to understand the properties and preparations of substances like swarnabhasma, which are crucial for effective treatment in traditional herbal medicine.

58) Toxicology:
Toxicology examines the effects of substances on living organisms, crucial for ensuring the safety of Ayurvedic preparations like swarnabhasma. Understanding both the therapeutic benefits and potential toxicities of these formulations is essential for validating their efficacy in healthcare.

59) Substance:
Substance refers to the specific materials used in Ayurvedic formulations, such as gold and mercury in swarnabhasma. The selection and processing of these substances are fundamental in determining the effectiveness and safety of the resulting medicinal preparations.

60) Toxicity:
Toxicity relates to the harmful effects of substances on the body. In the context of Ayurveda, particularly with preparations like swarnabhasma, exploring the toxicological aspects is essential for ensuring that traditional remedies are safe for human consumption.

61) Pounding:
Pounding is a process used in Ayurveda to prepare ingredients like gold and mercury into an amalgam. This traditional method enhances the absorption and efficacy of medicines and is a critical step in creating effective bhasmas like swarnabhasma.

62) Anupana:
Anupana refers to the vehicle or medium used to deliver Ayurvedic medicines. Utilizing substances like honey or ghee enhances the absorption of bhasmas and improves the therapeutic effects, making it an integral part of Ayurvedic treatment protocols.

63) Suvarna:
Suvarna is the Sanskrit term for gold, which is vital in producing swarnabhasma. The characteristics and properties of gold make it a key ingredient in Ayurvedic formulations, emphasizing its significance in achieving desired therapeutic outcomes.

64) Mineral:
Mineral substances, including gold and mercury, are foundational in Ayurveda. Their preparations undergo specific methodologies in Rasashastra to create effective medicinal formulations like bhasmas that are utilized for various health conditions, embodying the rich intersection of geology and medicine.

65) Parada:
Parada refers to mercury in Ayurvedic texts and holds significant importance in creating bhasmas. Its properties are exploited in traditional preparations, contributing to the overall efficacy of formulations while necessitating careful handling to ensure safety.

66) Kannan:
Kannan may refer to a contributor involved in the research of swarnabhasma. This highlights the collaboration among various researchers to explore and validate traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern scientific methodologies, promoting a deeper understanding of ancient wisdom.

67) Mitra:
Mitra is likely the name of a contributing author to the research. It emphasizes the collaborative efforts in documenting and studying traditional Ayurvedic methodologies, ensuring a platform for merging ancient practices with contemporary scientific research.

68) Delhi:
Delhi, the capital of India, serves as a significant hub for medical and Ayurvedic research. The reference to Delhi indicates the geographical and cultural importance of traditional practices, highlighting its role in the dissemination and study of Ayurveda in contemporary contexts.

69) Glass:
Glass likely refers to laboratory glassware utilized in the preparation and analysis of Ayurvedic formulations. The use of glass is crucial in ensuring purity and preventing contamination during scientific investigations of swarnabhasma and other herbal medicines.

70) Katti:
Katti refers to the use of a traditional iron mortar and pestle in the preparation of herbal medicines. This method is essential in Ayurveda for grinding and triturating materials, ensuring proper consistency and enhancing the effectiveness of formulations like swarnabhasma.

71) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Burnt signifies the process of incineration involved in creating bhasmas like swarnabhasma. This critical phase underlines the transformation of raw materials into usable medicinal forms, illustrating the importance of controlled heating in Ayurvedic methodologies.

72) Babu:
Babu is likely a common Indian surname and may refer to one of the researchers or contributors to the study. The inclusion of such names acknowledges the collaborative nature of the research, emphasizing the joint effort in exploring Ayurvedic preparations scientifically.

73) Sah:
Shah is another surname likely associated with the authors, highlighting contributors to the research study on swarnabhasma. Individual contributions reflect the diversity and collaboration within the field of Ayurveda, integrating multiple perspectives in scientific explorations.

74) Sahu:
Sahu may refer to a contributor involved in the study, representing the collaborative nature of research in Ayurvedic medicine. The involvement of multiple individuals denotes a shared commitment to merging traditional practices with scientific research for validation and application.

75) Salt (Salty):
Salt holds significance in Ayurveda for its purifying qualities and as a dietary essential. In the context of preparing bhasmas, specific types of salt may play a role in the purification processes, enhancing the effectiveness of traditional formulations.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 99]

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