Review: Substituting Ayurvedic metal/mineral drugs with synthetics.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Substitution of ayurvedic drugs of metal, mineral, ore origin with synthetic and highly refined drugs - a brief review
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Prashant B. Bedarkar
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Substitution of ayurvedic drugs of metal, mineral, ore origin with synthetic and highly refined drugs - a brief review
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201716-10275
Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The integration of synthetic drugs into Ayurvedic pharmaceutico-therapeutics has evolved significantly over the years, particularly within the framework of Rasashastra, the system of Ayurveda that deals with metals and minerals. This brief review by Prashant B. Bedarkar presents a comparative analysis between classical Rasavarga Dravya (Ayurvedic medicinal substances derived from metals and minerals) and their contemporary synthetic counterparts. The study aims to highlight the dissimilarities and similarities between traditional Ayurvedic materials and modern synthesizations, emphasizing the adoption of refined substances in contemporary practice.
The Evolution of Synthetic Drugs in Ayurveda
One of the key concepts discussed is the historical adaptation of pharmaceutical techniques to address the challenges of unavailability or adulteration of classical Rasadravya. Ancient seers recognized the need for standardization and began including synthetic drugs in their treatment protocols. This evolution reflects an ongoing trend where traditional medical practices have assimilated more precise methods of drug preparation and artificial synthesis. The author points out that various classical substances have been successfully replaced or supplemented with synthetic versions, illustrating a dynamic intersection between ancient knowledge and modern science.
Dissimilarities in Drug Composition
Another important theme in the article revolves around the dissimilarities found between classical descriptions of Rasadravya and their modern equivalents. The study establishes a clear distinction by analyzing specific substances such as Tankana, Kanta Lauha, and Kasisa, noting marked differences between their traditional classifications and contemporary usages. For example, while classical texts provide a rich array of uses and descriptions for these substances, modern pharmacopoeia may categorize them differently due to changes in chemical composition and processing methods, prompting a reevaluation of their therapeutic efficacy.
Significance of Standardization
The review emphasizes the crucial role of standardization in Ayurvedic practice, arguing that the adoption of synthetic drugs contributes to a clearer resolution of ambiguities surrounding Rasadravya. Bedarkar advocates for comparative studies that assess the safety and efficacy of these synthetic substitutes against their classical counterparts. The importance of establishing monographs for Rasavarga Dravya by the Ayurvedic Pharmacopeia of India (API) is highlighted, as it reflects a growing commitment to ensure consistency and reliability in Ayurvedic formulations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the incorporation of synthetic drugs into Ayurvedic practice presents a dual benefit of enhancing standardization while also acknowledging the historical context of Rasashastra. While the advancement in synthesis technology and the emergence of refined compounds offer promising potential for therapeutic applications, researchers should remain open to exploring diverse chemical compositions beyond the commonly accepted assumptions of the present era. Overall, Bedarkar’s review underscores a progressive outlook toward integrating modern scientific advancements with traditional knowledge in Ayurvedic medicine.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the focus of the review by Prashant B. Bedarkar?
The review focuses on correlating classical Ayurvedic Rasavarga Dravya with modern synthetic compounds. It discusses the integration of synthetic drugs into contemporary Ayurvedic pharmaceutico-therapeutics and highlights their potential benefits for standardization.
What are Rasadravya in the context of Ayurveda?
Rasadravya refers to various metals and minerals used in Ayurvedic treatments. These substances are traditionally processed to enhance their therapeutic effects, and the review examines their classical descriptions compared to contemporary substitutes.
What methodology was used in the study of Rasadravya?
The study compared classical Rasadravya with modern synthetic compounds focusing on their sources, varieties, chemical nature, and overlap in therapeutic applications based on research from classical texts and contemporary practices.
What were the findings regarding synthetic drugs in Ayurveda?
The findings indicate that many Rasavarga Dravya show similarities with modern synthetic compounds, suggesting that the integration of synthetic drugs can enhance standardization and improve therapeutic outcomes in Ayurvedic practices.
How does the review suggest achieving standardization in Rasadravya?
The review suggests that advancements in chemistry and technology, including purification and artificial synthesis, can aid in the standardization of Rasadravya, supporting safety and efficacy in Ayurvedic treatments.
What conclusion does the review draw about synthetic drugs in Ayurveda?
The conclusion emphasizes that adopting synthetic drugs and refining techniques benefits Ayurvedic pharmaceutico-therapeutics but also calls for further research on the safety and efficacy of these substitutes compared to traditional methods.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Review: Substituting Ayurvedic metal/mineral drugs with synthetics.”. 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) Mineral:
Minerals are naturally occurring inorganic substances essential for various biochemical processes and therapeutic applications in Rasashastra. They include metals and other compounds used in Ayurvedic practices. Their sourcing and processing significantly affect the quality and efficacy of Ayurvedic drugs, contributing to the traditional healing methods.
2) Salt (Salty):
Salts, particularly halite minerals, are fundamental in Ayurveda for their therapeutic properties. Various salts, including Samudra lavana (sea salt), play critical roles in formulations. Their purity and sourcing are vital, as they influence the biological activities and interactions of Ayurvedic preparations in treating health conditions.
3) Rasashastra (Rasa-shastra, Rasasastra):
Rasashastra is the Ayurvedic science dealing with the properties and therapeutic uses of metals and minerals. It encompasses pharmaceutical practices and the creation of potent medicaments through the combination of herbs, minerals, and various treatments, emphasizing the balance between traditional knowledge and modern scientific approaches.
4) Drug:
Drugs in Ayurveda, including those derived from metals, minerals, and herbs, are used for therapeutic purposes. The substitution of classical Rasadravya with synthetic drugs aims to maintain efficacy while ensuring safety and standardization in treatments, bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary medicine.
5) Lavana:
Lavana refers to salts, particularly seen in Ayurvedic treatments for their detoxifying properties. This category includes different types of mineral salts utilized in formulations and therapies, highlighting their significance in achieving balance and promoting health through traditional practices and modern innovations.
6) Water:
Water plays a crucial role in Ayurvedic pharmaceutico-therapeutics as a solvent and medium for extracting active components from herbs and minerals. Its quality affects the efficacy and safety of formulations, underscoring the importance of purity and processing in Ayurvedic medicine.
7) Dravya:
Dravya translates to 'substance' in Ayurveda and refers to any material used in the preparation of medicines. This encompasses a wide range of items, including herbs, minerals, and animal products. Understanding the properties of Dravya is foundational to successful Ayurvedic treatments.
8) Rasavarga (Rasa-varga):
Rasavarga denotes a classification of substances in Rasashastra that are used for their medicinal properties. Evaluating the relationship between traditional Rasavarga Dravya and their synthetic counterparts is crucial for modern applications in Ayurvedic treatment and pharmaceutical developments.
9) Substance:
In the context of Ayurveda, 'substance' refers to any material utilized in therapeutic formulations, which may include herbal extracts, minerals, and synthesized compounds. The classification and identification of these substances are essential for safety, efficacy, and pharmacological research.
10) Gujarat:
Gujarat is significant as the geographical region where Gujarat Ayurved University is located, specializing in the study and practice of Ayurveda. The state has a rich cultural heritage of Ayurvedic knowledge, providing insights into traditional therapies and local medicinal resources.
11) Kshara (Ksara):
Kshara refers to alkaline substances in Ayurveda, usually derived from ashes or mineral salts. These are used for their purifying and therapeutic properties in various formulations. The study of Kshara is essential for understanding its applications in traditional Ayurvedic practices.
12) Similarity:
The concept of similarity is integral in comparing classical Ayurvedic substances and their synthetic counterparts. Understanding these relationships helps in the standardization and validation of treatments, enhancing credibility and trust in Ayurvedic practices within contemporary medicine.
13) Hingula (Himgula):
Hingula, or red mercury sulphide, is a classical Rasadravya known for its medicinal properties. Its preparation techniques and applications highlight the blend of ancient Ayurvedic knowledge with modern pharmacological understanding of minerals and their therapeutic uses.
14) Rasaka:
Rasaka refers to specific Ayurvedic substances, particularly those derived from zinc and its alloys. The historical usage and modern substitutions for Rasaka illustrate the evolution of Ayurvedic therapies, reflecting changes in logic, understanding, and availability of sources.
15) Nature:
Nature encompasses the intrinsic characteristics and properties of materials used in Ayurveda. Understanding nature is fundamental in evaluating the source, composition, and applications of medicinal substances, including their interactions and effects on human health.
16) Kanta (Kamta):
Kanta refers to materials with magnetic properties in Ayurveda, particularly in drugs like Kanta-lauha. The utilization of such metals underscores the ancient Ayurvedic understanding of magnetic attributes, contributing to the development of therapies based on energy and magnetism.
17) Borax:
Borax, or sodium borate, is a mineral used in various Ayurvedic preparations for its medicinal properties. Understanding its chemical properties and traditional uses is important for integrating modern applications while ensuring safety and efficacy in Ayurvedic practices.
18) Bida:
Bida refers to substances derived from natural sources, such as minerals or earthy materials, used in Ayurvedic formulations. Its study helps in understanding the purity, therapeutic potential, and implications of using such substances in contemporary treatment methods.
19) Pita:
Pita denotes the yellow variety of substances in Ayurveda, often indicating a specific class of minerals or compounds. Recognizing its medicinal significance helps in the classification and formulation processes necessary for effective Ayurvedic treatment.
20) Goat milk:
Goat milk serves as a crucial ingredient in many Ayurvedic formulations, known for its nutritional benefits and compatibility with traditional recipes. Its use further emphasizes the importance of sourcing quality ingredients in bespoke health treatments.
21) Samudralavana:
Samudra-lavana refers to sea salt, a vital component in Ayurvedic therapies known for various health benefits. Its sources, processing, and role in formulations highlight its significance in traditional practices and its authenticity in therapeutic applications.
22) Pushpakasisa (Puspakasisa, Pushpa-kasisa, Pushpakasisha):
Pushpakasisa is a variety of Rasadravya associated with therapeutic applications in Ayurveda. Its classification and comparison with modern substitutes stress the importance of maintaining traditional knowledge while exploring new avenues for enhancing efficacy in treatments.
23) Sphatikabha (Sphatika-abha):
Sphatikabha refers to a crystal variety considered in Ayurvedic practices for its purity and clarity. Recognizing the medicinal properties associated with this substance encourages the use of high-quality materials in therapies and formulations.
24) Bhaishajya (Bhaisajya):
Bhaishajya pertains to the Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia of medicine, encompassing wisdom around drugs and therapies. It emphasizes the intricate relationships between herbs, minerals, and their medicinal properties in crafting effective treatments rooted in ancient knowledge.
25) Discussion:
Discussion in the context of Ayurvedic pharmacology involves analyzing the similarities and differences between classical and contemporary approaches to substance preparation. Engaging in discussions helps to advance knowledge, share research findings, and refine practices within Ayurvedic medicine.
26) Shodhana (Sodhana):
Shodhana refers to the purification process in Ayurveda aimed at removing impurities from herbs and minerals. This essential step enhances the efficacy and safety of preparations, solidifying the importance of authentication and quality control in Ayurvedic therapies.
27) Mandura (Mamdura):
Mandura is recognized in Ayurvedic practices as a form of iron that can be refined and used in formulations. Its classification illustrates the importance of specific mineral varieties and their corresponding therapeutic potentials in ancient and modern treatments.
28) Dardura:
Dardura refers to a type of Rasaka used in Ayurvedic treatments. Understanding its properties and association with specific mineral content allows practitioners to explore its efficacy and applications, reaffirming the blend of ancient wisdom with contemporary research.
29) Kalpana:
Kalpana denotes the conceptualization and formulation of medicines in Ayurveda. This creative aspect emphasizes the intricate process of preparing effective therapies that address health needs, reflecting the combination of tradition and innovation in Ayurvedic practices.
30) Samudra:
Samudra signifies the sea, and its significance in Ayurveda often ties to the sourcing of marine minerals and salts for therapeutic purposes. The understanding of Samudra's contributions enriches the study of traditional remedies and their sourcing.
31) Yashada (Yasada):
Yashada, or zinc, constitutes an important component of classical Ayurvedic formulations. The integration of modern substitutes for Yashada illustrates the evolution of Ayurvedic practice and the need for ongoing research to ensure safety and effectiveness.
32) Habitat:
Habitat refers to the natural environment where medicinal plants and minerals are sourced. Understanding the geographical and ecological contexts of these habitats is vital for ensuring the quality, authenticity, and potency of Ayurvedic ingredients.
33) Science (Scientific):
Science in this context refers to the systematic study and application of principles underlying the preparation and effects of Ayurvedic medicines. Bridging traditional practices with scientific reasoning promotes enhanced efficacy, safety, and the advancement of Ayurvedic therapies.
34) Animal:
Animal products play a role in various Ayurvedic formulations, providing unique bioactive constituents beneficial for therapeutic purposes. The sourcing, ethical considerations, and applications of these products are relevant for maintaining quality and addressing health issues.
35) Rakta:
Rakta denotes red substances in Ayurveda often associated with blood or vital energy. Understanding the significance of Rakta helps in the synthesis of various formulations aimed at enhancing vitality and supporting different physiological functions.
36) Darvi:
Darvi refers to a type of herbal formulation or mineral preparation in Ayurveda, especially those aiming at therapeutic enhancement. Its study reveals the intersection of traditional knowledge with modern processing and therapeutic understanding.
37) Lauha:
Lauha, or iron, is a critical mineral in Ayurvedic treatments, associated with various physiological roles. Its evaluation aids in refining formulations that utilize iron's properties, ensuring effectiveness and safety in therapeutic applications.
38) Ghana:
Ghana refers to a solid or compact form in Ayurvedic context, often used in formulations. This term is relevant for understanding the texture and purity of substances used in pharmacotherapy, necessitating quality assessments.
39) Pearl:
Pearls in Ayurveda symbolize both beauty and therapeutic efficacy. Their sourcing and processing in traditional medicine emphasize the blend of art and science in creating potent remedies for health and wellness.
40) Table:
Table refers to the systematic representation of data, such as comparing various Rasadravya. It aids in analyzing characteristics and applications while facilitating the organization of knowledge within the Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia.
41) Earth:
Earth represents the foundational materials sourced from the natural world for Ayurvedic formulations. The wisdom of utilizing earth-derived substances underlines the significance of geography, biodiversity, and traditional practices in medicine.
42) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa denotes the essence, flavor, or therapeutic effect in Ayurveda. The understanding of Rasa assists in distinguishing various formulations and their intended effects, guiding practitioners in creating effective treatments.
43) Milk:
Milk, particularly from various animals, is integral in Ayurveda due to its nutritional richness and therapeutic properties. Its role in formulations highlights the preference for natural ingredients in enhancing health and vitality.
44) Blue stone:
Blue stone refers to mineral formations often used in Ayurvedic treatments, symbolizing specific therapeutic attributes. Understanding the sourcing and classification of such minerals is key to ensuring their efficacy in medicinal formulations.
45) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological aspects of Ayurvedic preparations involve investigating their biochemical effects and therapeutic efficacy. Integrating pharmacological research into traditional practices enhances understanding and credibility, fostering acceptance in modern medicine.
46) Sauviranjana (Sauvira-anjana, Sauviramjana):
Sauviranjana refers to a specific mineral used in classical Ayurvedic formulations. Its therapeutic roles highlight the importance of detailed knowledge surrounding sourcing and utilization in practice.
47) Gauripashana (Gauripasana, Gauri-pashana):
Gauripashana indicates a specific type of stone recognized for its medicinal uses in Ayurveda. The exploration of Gauripashana's properties and applications promotes a deeper understanding of mineral-based therapies.
48) Purification:
Purification processes are vital in Ayurveda for preparing effective medicines by removing impurities from resources. This emphasizes the importance of safety and quality assurance in developing traditional formulations.
49) Karavellaka:
Karavellaka is a type of herb or substance used in Ayurvedic medicine, often recognized for its unique properties. Studying Karavellaka contributes to understanding herbal interactions and enhancing therapeutic efficacy in formulations.
50) Kantalauha (Kanta-lauha):
Kanta-lauha refers to a specific type of iron noted for its magnetic properties in Ayurvedic practice. Its unique attributes are utilized in therapeutic formulations, demonstrating the interaction between minerals and health.
51) Navasadara:
Navasadara refers to a type of salt associated with specific therapeutic uses in Ayurveda. Understanding its properties and preparation methods is essential for integrating it into effective medicinal formulations and therapies.
52) Saurashtra (Saurastra):
Saurashtra is a region with a rich heritage of Ayurvedic knowledge in India. Its geographical uniqueness impacts the availability of various medicinal plants and minerals vital for sustaining traditional practices.
53) Saurashtri (Saurastri):
Saurashtri indicates specific varieties found in the Saurashtra region, emphasizing the localized understanding of Ayurveda through unique geographical resources and how they contribute to effective medicinal preparations.
54) Shukatunda (Sukatunda, Shukatumda):
Shukatunda refers to an Ayurvedic substance recognized for its specific therapeutic applications. The exploration of Shukatunda aids in understanding the diversity and richness of materials incorporated in classical Ayurvedic formulations.
55) Hamsapada (Hamsa-pada):
Hamsapada refers to a specific category of Rasadravya associated with red varieties in Ayurveda. The analysis of such substances is crucial for ensuring their accurate application within therapeutic practices.
56) Rasanjana (Rasa-anjana, Rasamjana):
Rasanjana pertains to a category of specific Ayurvedic preparations. Exploring its properties and applications stresses the importance of maintaining tradition while adapting to modern pharmacological contexts.
57) Amlarasa (Amla-rasa):
Amla-rasa refers to the sour taste attributed to various herbal substances in Ayurveda. The significance of Amla-rasa is critical in understanding its applications in achieving balance within formulations and enhancing therapeutic efficacy.
58) Knowledge:
Knowledge encompasses both traditional wisdom and contemporary understanding within Ayurvedic practice. The integration of diverse knowledge systems enhances the efficacy of treatments, fostering a holistic approach to health and wellness.
59) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is the traditional Indian system of medicine focusing on balance within the body and nature. Its principles strive for holistic health, utilizing various substances including plants, minerals, and animal products for therapeutic purposes.
60) Gandhaka (Gamdhaka):
Gandhaka refers to sulfur and its use in Ayurvedic formulations for its revered medicinal properties. Understanding its application aids in recognizing the broader context of mineral-based therapies within traditional medicine.
61) Navasara (Nava-sara, Navan-sara):
Navasara signifies specific forms derived from natural resources within Ayurveda. Its study promotes an understanding of the variety and applicability of substances used in traditional formulations.
62) Makshika (Maksika):
Makshika denotes a particular substance, often associated with therapeutic attributes in Ayurveda. Analyzing Makshika's properties supports a deeper understanding of mineral applications in healing practices.
63) Kharpara:
Kharpara refers to a type of mineral or clay with medicinal properties recognized in Ayurveda. Studying Kharpara enhances knowledge about the diversity and potential therapeutic roles of different minerals in Ayurveda.
64) Phullika:
Phullika denotes a white variety of substance utilized in Ayurvedic formulations. Its unique properties underscore the significance of studying different types of Dravya for effective therapeutic applications.
65) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana represents rejuvenation therapies in Ayurveda aimed at promoting health and longevity. Understanding Rasayana's foundational principles assists in formulating effective treatments that enhance vitality and overall well-being.
66) Uparatna:
Uparatna refers to secondary or complementary minerals in Ayurvedic practice. The categorization of Uparatna aids in detailing the complete spectrum of substances utilized for therapeutic roles within Ayurveda.
67) Medicine:
Medicine, in this context, pertains to formulations derived from natural substances used for healing. The evolving relationship between traditional practices and modern pharmaceutical standards reflects the complexity and efficacy of Ayurvedic medicine.
68) Khatika:
Khatika denotes a dull white clay or mineral utilized in Ayurvedic therapies. Exploring Khatika’s application reveals essential insights into the domain of natural substances employed for healing purposes.
69) Dravaka:
Dravaka refers to a type of Ayurvedic substance recognized for its specific therapeutic applications. Highlights the uniqueness of various Dravaka in the larger category of medicinal materials used in Ayurveda.
70) Sasyaka (Shasyaka):
Sasyaka refers to a specific variety of herbal or mineral preparations within Ayurveda. Its identification and application signify the emphasis on sourcing quality ingredients for effective therapeutic formulations.
71) Shubhra (Subhra):
Shubhra refers to a white variety used in Ayurvedic preparations, emphasizing purity and quality in medicinal formulations. The study of Shubhra’s properties and applications aids in classifying effective therapeutic substances.
72) Pandura (Pamdura):
Pandura denotes a light-colored variety used in Ayurvedic treatments. Understanding its characteristics helps formulate effective strategies and ensures that the therapeutic properties align with traditional knowledge.
73) Tankana (Tamkana):
Tankana refers to a type of mineral compound used in Ayurvedic treatments. Analyzing Tankana’s properties and applications contributes to reinforcing the significance of mineral-based therapies.
74) Peacock:
Peacock symbolizes vibrancy and color in nature, often referred to in Ayurvedic texts. Natural inspirations like peacock colors signify the significance of aesthetic aspects in healing practices and formulations.
75) Kankshin (Kanksi, Kanksin, Kankshi):
Kankshi refers to a type of clay or mineral used in Ayurvedic medicinal preparations, highlighting its relevance in sourcing and preparing effective remedies derived from natural substances.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 94]
Other Science Concepts:
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