A bird eye view on gairikam in ayurved classic

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Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: A bird eye view on gairikam in ayurved classic
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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Author:

Dr. Tanuja Bharti and Dr. Divya Deepak Sharma


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: A bird eye view on gairikam in ayurved classic

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr202012-21777


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Summary of article contents:

1) Introduction

Gairika is a significant mineral discussed in Ayurvedic literature, particularly within the tradition of Rasashashtra. It is recognized as a uparasa, specifically identified as iron (Fe2O3), and is closely associated with medicinal practices. Traditionally, Gairika comes in three varieties: Swarnagairika, Pashanagairika, and Samanyagairika. While the Swarnagairika variety is mainly found in Tamil Nadu as 'ponkavi,' the other types exhibit varying availability across different regions. This article highlights Gairika's historical references, applications, and prevalent interpretations in classical texts.

2) Historical Context

The historical understanding of Gairika can be classified into four periods: Vaidikakaala, Samhithakaala, Sangarahakaala, and Rasa kaala. During Vaidikakaala, there are no references to Gairika. However, in the Samhithakaala, texts such as Charaka and Susrutha attribute medicinal properties to Gairika, suggesting its use for skin diseases, digestive ailments, and various eye disorders. Notably, Vagbhata's works (Sangrahakaala) introduced essential descriptions and properties of Gairika for the first time, linking its benefits to treatment practices noted in subsequent Rasa kaala texts.

3) Applications of Gairika in Rasashashtra

Gairika's diverse applications are well documented in classical texts. Its usage ranges from external applications for treating pitha-related skin conditions and eye disorders to its incorporation as an ingredient in notable medicinal formulas such as Mahagandasthi Agadam and Khadiradi Gudika. The texts prescribe both internal and external applications, notably highlighting Gairika’s role in managing visceral ailments like rakta pitha (blood disorders) and other forms of toxicity. The versatility of Gairika underscores its significance in Ayurvedic healthcare.

4) Types and Properties of Gairika

Gairika is described in various Ayurvedic texts, with a focus on its types and properties. Classic texts emphasize two main types—Swarnagairika and Pashanagairika—along with their unique attributes. While Swarnagairika is noted for its rich color and subtlety, Pashanagairika is characterized by its grainy texture. Definitions, synonyms, and vernacular names across languages exemplify its widespread relevance in different regions and cultural contexts. Additionally, the literature outlines the shodhana (purification) processes required for Gairika, ensuring its efficacy in therapeutic applications.

5) Conclusion

Gairika represents an integral component of Ayurvedic medicine, rich in historical significance and therapeutic applications. The examination of its properties, types, and uses across ancient texts highlights the need for increased clarity regarding its interpretation as red ochre or haematite. Despite its medicinal importance, ambiguity in its naming serves as a testament to the necessity of further research to elucidate its characteristics and enhance its practical applications in contemporary Ayurvedic practices. This article serves as a preliminary inquiry into Gairika's literary aspects, prompting more detailed explorations in the future.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is Gairika and its chemical composition?

Gairika is a medicinal mineral known as Red Ochre, with the chemical composition Fe2O3. It is one of the eight uparasa discussed in Rasashastra and is recognized for its medicinal properties.

What are the types of Gairika mentioned in classical texts?

There are mainly three types of Gairika mentioned: Swarnagairika, Pashanagairika, and Samanyagairika, with Swarnagairika being less available in India and primarily found in the USA and Germany.

How is Gairika used in Ayurvedic treatments?

Gairika is used in various Ayurvedic treatments, such as external applications for skin diseases and internal uses for conditions like chardi and visha. It is also included in formulations like Mahagandasthi agadam.

What are the key historical periods regarding Gairika?

The history of Gairika is divided into four periods: Vaidikakaala, Samhithakaala, Sangarahakaala, and Rasa kaala. Important references to Gairika can be found in texts from the Samhithakaala and Sangrahakakaala.

What are the properties and benefits of Gairika?

Gairika is known for its pittasamaka properties and is described as sweet and astringent. It also has benefits in treating skin conditions, fever, and aiding in wound healing.

Is there any ambiguity around Gairika's naming?

Yes, there is some ambiguity in translating Gairika, as it is referred to as both Red Ochre and Haematite. Further studies are needed to clarify its exact characteristics and uses.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “A bird eye view on gairikam in ayurved classic”. 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) Gairika:
Gairika refers to a specific type of mineral known as red ochre or haematite, primarily an oxide of iron (Fe2O3). It is significant in Ayurvedic texts as one of the uparasa, often associated with various therapeutic applications in traditional medicine, highlighting its importance in Rasashastra.

2) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa translates to 'taste' or 'essence' in Sanskrit, and in the context of Ayurveda and Rasashastra, it refers to the qualitative properties and energetic attributes of substances. Understanding rasa is crucial for classifying herbs and minerals for their medicinal uses, influencing treatment outcomes.

3) Shodhana (Sodhana):
Shodhana refers to the purification process in Ayurvedic medicine, particularly in Rasashastra, where minerals are treated to remove impurities and enhance their therapeutic efficacy. This process is essential to ensure the safety and effectiveness of herbal and mineral formulations.

4) Satvapatana:
Satvapatana is a term used in Rasashastra denoting the process of extracting the active or beneficial components of a substance, particularly metals and minerals. It signifies the transformation of raw materials into a potent form suitable for medicinal use.

5) Table:
The term table, in the context of this document, refers to organized sets of data that summarize key information about Gairika, its types, properties, and references from classical texts. Tables serve as an effective way to present information for easy comparison and clarity.

6) Mineral:
Minerals are naturally occurring inorganic substances that possess specific chemical and physical properties. In Ayurveda, minerals are often used in various formulations due to their therapeutic benefits. Gairika exemplifies a mineral that has significant applications in traditional healing practices.

7) India:
India is the geographical and cultural context where Ayurveda originated and flourished. The country's rich history of herbal medicine and mineral usage is intrinsic to Ayurvedic practices, with Gairika being widely referenced in ancient Indian texts on Rasashastra.

8) Rasajalanidhi (Rasa-jala-nidhi):
Rasajalanidhi is one of the classical texts in the field of Rasashastra that provides comprehensive details on the properties, applications, and classifications of various substances, including Gairika. This text is a valuable resource for practitioners and scholars in traditional medicine.

9) Uparasa (Upa-rasa):
Uparasa refers to a category of secondary substances derived from metals and minerals in Rasashastra. Gairika is classified as an uparasa, highlighting its role in therapeutic practices and its importance in the formulation of Ayurvedic medicines.

10) Bhavana (Bha-vana):
Bhavana signifies the process of incorporation or enhancement of medicinal properties through specific methods, often involving the grinding or mixing of herbs and minerals with liquids. This technique is fundamental in Rasashastra, especially in preparing effective formulations like Gairika.

11) Yama:
Yama denotes a unit of time measurement in Ayurvedic texts, often reflecting duration in purification processes or therapeutic treatments. Understanding yama is essential for practitioners to ensure proper application of procedures in traditional medicine.

12) Loha:
Loha means metal in Sanskrit and refers specifically to the group of essential metals used in Ayurvedic medicine. The significance of loha emphasizes the role of metallic elements like Gairika in therapeutic formulations and their contribution to health.

13) Rasaprakashasudhakara (Rasaprakasasudhakara, Rasaprakasa-sudhakara):
Rasaprakasasudhakara is a significant manuscript in the study of Rasashastra, detailing various aspects of metals and minerals, including purification processes. This text serves as a reference point for understanding the properties and applications of Gairika in traditional practices.

14) Rasashastra (Rasa-shastra, Rasasastra):
Rasashastra is a branch of Ayurveda that focuses on the science of alchemy, including the use of metals, minerals, and herbs for medicinal purposes. The principles of Rasashastra elaborate on the formulation and application of substances like Gairika in healing practices.

15) Netraroga (Netra-roga):
Netra-roga translates to 'eye diseases' in Sanskrit and represents a category of ailments treated within Ayurveda. Gairika is highlighted for its applications in treating various eye disorders, indicating its relevance in ocular health.

16) Raktavarga (Rakta-varga):
Raktavarga refers to a classification of diseases related to the blood in Ayurvedic texts. Understanding raktavarga is crucial for diagnosing and treating conditions using substances like Gairika that possess properties beneficial for blood-related issues.

17) Ratnakara (Ratna-akara, Ratna-kara):
Rasaratnakara is an important text in Rasashastra that discusses various minerals, including Gairika. This text is a valuable source of information regarding processing and application techniques for a range of medicinal substances.

18) Rasarnava:
Rasarnava is another classical treatise focusing on the principles of Rasashastra, providing guidelines on the identification, purification, and therapeutic use of minerals and metals. Gairika is mentioned in this text, indicating its prominence in traditional healing practices.

19) Visarpa:
Visarpa refers to a type of skin disease or eruption in Ayurveda. Gairika is described as having therapeutic effects against visarpa, showcasing its relevance in treating skin-related ailments effectively based on its properties.

20) Marana:
Marana refers to the process of incineration or calcination of metals in Rasashastra, transforming them into a form suitable for medicinal use. Although marana for Gairika is not explicitly detailed in texts, understanding this process is critical for practitioners.

21) Grahya:
Grahya refers to substances that are deemed suitable for consumption or therapeutic use in Ayurvedic medicine. Gairika's classification as grahya reflects its acceptance and application in various medicinal formulations for patient health.

22) Pitta:
Pitta represents one of the three doshas (biological energies) in Ayurveda, associated with heat and transformation. Gairika is noted for its pittasamaka or cooling properties, signifying its effectiveness in balancing pitta-related disorders.

23) Satva (Shatva):
Satva, in the context of Rasashastra, refers to the essence or the purified component extracted from minerals. It indicates the refined state of a substance, such as Gairika, crucial for therapeutic efficacy and safety in treatments.

24) Netra:
Netra means 'eye' in Sanskrit, emphasizing the importance of ocular health in Ayurvedic practices. Gairika's applications for netra-roga reinforce its role in addressing eye-related health issues through traditional treatments.

25) Varga:
Varga denotes a classification or category in Ayurveda, often used to categorize substances based on shared characteristics or properties. This classification aids practitioners in understanding the various applications and interactions between different medicinal substances like Gairika.

26) Kavi:
Kavi refers to a poet or scholar in Sanskrit, emphasizing the intellectual pursuit of Ayurvedic practices. The role of kavi signifies the necessity of scholarly contributions to the study and understanding of minerals such as Gairika.

27) Roga:
Roga means 'disease' or 'illness' in Sanskrit, representing a core concept in Ayurveda focused on diagnosing and treating health conditions. The therapeutic properties of Gairika play a significant role in addressing various diseases, enhancing its relevance.

28) Guna:
Guna translates to 'quality' or 'attribute' in Sanskrit, referring to the intrinsic properties of substances in Ayurveda. Understanding the guna of Gairika is vital for practitioners to evaluate its therapeutic potential and applications in treatments.

29) Gana:
Gana refers to a group or class of items within a larger category. In Ayurvedic texts, substances like Gairika are categorized based on their properties and uses, aiding in the systematic understanding of their medicinal applications.

30) Ayurvedaprakasha (Ayurvedaprakasa, Ayurveda-prakasha):
Ayurveda-prakasa is a notable text discussing the principles, practices, and substances used in Ayurveda. It includes references to Gairika, providing a comprehensive insight into its medicinal properties and therapeutic practices.

31) Ashtangahridaya (Astangahrdaya, Ashtanga-hridaya):
Ashtanga-hridaya is a foundational Ayurvedic text authored by Vagbhata, summarizing key principles, treatments, and pharmacology. It mentions Gairika and details its uses, underscoring the importance of this mineral in classical Ayurvedic medicine.

32) Rasaratnakara (Rasa-ratnakara):
Rasa-ratnakara is an Ayurvedic text that catalogs various mineral substances, including Gairika. Its comprehensive nature supports practitioners in identifying, processing, and effectively utilizing minerals in therapeutic practices within traditional medicine.

33) Svarnagairika (Svarna-gairika):
Svarnagairika is a specific variety of Gairika that is highly regarded in Ayurvedic texts, known for its unique properties. Its differentiation from other types reinforces the importance of precise classification in Rasa-based treatments.

34) Shalyatantra (Salyatantra, Shalya-tantra, Shalyatamtra):
Shalya-tantra is the branch of Ayurveda focused on surgery and surgical procedures. It involves the use of various ayurvedic ingredients including Gairika for treating surgical ailments and enhancing recovery, demonstrating its versatility beyond general medicine.

35) Raktapitta (Rakta-pitta):
Rakta-pitta refers to specific imbalances or conditions associated with the pitta dosha that impact blood. Gairika's properties align well with the treatment paradigms of rakta-pitta, emphasizing its role in blood-related disorders within Ayurvedic practices.

36) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
Accumulate in this context refers to the collection and gathering of information or data regarding Gairika from various Ayurvedic texts. This process aids practitioners and researchers in understanding its historical, cultural, and medicinal significance.

37) Doshaghna (Dosaghna, Dosha-ghna):
Doshaghna signifies a substance or formulation that counteracts or pacifies a dosha imbalance. Gairika is recognized for its doshaghna properties, making it a valuable mineral for restoring balance in patients experiencing health issues.

38) Khadiradi:
Khadiradi is a specific formulation in Ayurveda that incorporates Gairika along with other herbs. This combination highlights the collaborative nature of Ayurvedic treatments, where multiple ingredients work synergistically to enhance therapeutic effects.

39) Kankushtha (Kankustha, Kamkushtha):
Kankushta refers to a type of skin disease in Ayurveda, often involving leprosy-like symptoms. Gairika’s therapeutic applications in treating skin diseases emphasize its utility in addressing specific health conditions within Ayurvedic medical practices.

40) Tamilnadu (Tamil-nadu):
Tamilnadu is a state in southern India known for its rich tradition of Siddha medicine, where Gairika, referred to as 'ponkavi,' is utilized. This highlights the regional significance and unique heritage of Ayurvedic practices throughout India.

41) Tarkshya (Tarksya):
Tarkshya refers to a category of herbal formulations in Ayurveda known for their calming or grounding properties. Gairika's integration into such formulations is indicative of its supportive role in enhancing overall health and wellness.

42) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine developed in India that emphasizes balance in bodily systems using diet, herbal treatment, and yogic breathing. Gairika's use in Ayurvedic practices showcases its historical and ongoing relevance in holistic health.

43) Vagbhata:
Vagbhata was an influential Ayurvedic scholar and physician, credited with authoring the Ashtanga-hridaya and Ashtanga-sangraha. His works include references to Gairika, solidifying its place in classical Ayurvedic literature and practice.

44) Lakshana (Laksana):
Lakshana refers to specific characteristics or symptoms that help identify substances or diseases in Ayurveda. Understanding the lakshana of Gairika aids practitioners in diagnosing conditions and selecting appropriate treatments based on its properties.

45) Upadamsha (Upadamsa):
Upadamsa refers to a specific type of ailment characterized by localized swellings or lesions in Ayurveda. Gairika's use in addressing upadamsa highlights its relevance in treating inflammatory conditions in traditional medicine.

46) Pashanam (Pasanam):
Pashanam refers to one of the types of Gairika classified in Rasashastra, showcasing its identification within traditional texts. This categorization allows practitioners to differentiate between various types of Gairika based on their specific properties and uses.

47) Ashtanga (Astanga, Ashtan-anga):
Ashtanga refers to the eightfold path emphasized in Ayurveda for attaining health and wellness. This foundational concept links Gairika to broader Ayurvedic principles, demonstrating its integral role in holistic health practices.

48) Gunakara (Guna-kara, Guna-akara):
Gunakara signifies the qualitative benefits or attributes of a substance. The gunakara of Gairika, indicated by its therapeutic effects, emphasizes its efficacy in various medicinal applications within Ayurvedic treatments.

49) Language:
Language refers to the various forms of communication that convey concepts and knowledge. Understanding multiple languages contributes to the accessibility of Ayurvedic texts, enabling wider dissemination of knowledge regarding minerals like Gairika.

50) Sanskrit:
Sanskrit is the ancient language of India, in which many classical Ayurvedic texts, including those that discuss Gairika, were written. Its use is fundamental for understanding the original meanings and context of treatments in Ayurvedic practices.

51) Hridaya (Hrdaya):
Hridaya translates to 'heart' in Sanskrit, symbolizing the center of consciousness and emotions. In Ayurvedic context, Gairika's applications can reflect the importance of balanced emotions and health, connecting physical health to mental well-being.

52) Mardana:
Mardana refers to the process of grinding or triturating substances in Ayurveda to facilitate their effectiveness and absorption. This technique is critical for preparing Gairika for various medicinal formulations, enhancing its therapeutic utility.

53) Kanjika (Kamjika):
Kanjika refers to a herbal preparation traditionally used in Ayurveda, often incorporating Gairika in its formulation. The integration of Gairika into kanjika signifies its collective utility in enhanced therapeutic preparations.

54) Pradeha:
Pradeha refers to a paste or a mixture, particularly in Dhatu and Rasavikriti preparations in Ayurveda. Gairika's application in making pradehas showcases its versatile use in shaping formulations for therapeutic benefits.

55) Prakasha (Prakasa):
Prakasa means 'light' or 'clarity' in Sanskrit, often denoting illumination or understanding. In Rasashastra, clarity regarding the properties and uses of Gairika highlights the importance of knowledge in leveraging its therapeutic potential.

56) Marathi:
Marathi is a regional language in India where discussions about Ayurvedic practices occur, including the use of Gairika. The regional linguistic diversity underscores the cultural and practical relevance of Ayurvedic terminology in different parts of India.

57) Kannada:
Kannada is a language spoken in Karnataka, India, where Ayurvedic practices and texts are prevalent. The inclusion of Gairika within Kannada literature emphasizes the local adaptations of Ayurvedic principles across linguistic and cultural boundaries.

58) Bengali:
Bengali is a language spoken in West Bengal, India, where traditional medicine practices, including Ayurveda, are relevant. The term for Gairika in Bengali highlights the importance of regional languages in the context of traditional medicinal knowledge.

59) Kashaya (Kasaya):
Kashaya refers to astringent preparations that are often used in Ayurvedic treatments. Gairika's role in kashaya preparations indicates its significance in formulations targeting specific ailments that require astringent actions and responses.

60) Writing:
Writing preserves knowledge and traditions across generations. In Ayurveda, the written word enables the transmission of knowledge regarding minerals like Gairika, allowing practitioners to access and utilize ancient wisdom in contemporary healing practices.

61) Tantra (Tantrism, Tamtra):
Tantra refers to the system or methodology employed in Ayurveda to understand and utilize various substances and practices. Gairika’s classification and uses are framed within the broader tantras of Rasashastra, demonstrating the systematic approach to healing.

62) Siddha:
Siddha medicine is a traditional Indian healing system originating from Tamil Nadu, focusing on alchemical preparations and minerals, similar to Ayurveda. The use of Gairika as 'ponkavi' illustrates its relevance across Siddha and Ayurvedic systems.

63) Skanda (Skamda):
Skanda refers to a section or chapter in traditional texts, often dealing with specific materials or treatments. The mention of Gairika in various skandas indicates its documented significance within the ancient medical literature.

64) Pittam (Pittham):
Pittam denotes the pitta dosha’s specific qualities related to transformation and metabolism. Gairika's recognized benefits in correcting pitta imbalances reinforce its essential role in balancing bodily functions according to Ayurvedic principles.

65) Vyanga (Vyamga):
Vyanga signifies a type of skin condition or imperfection within Ayurvedic medicine often linked to pitta imbalances. Gairika’s applications in treating vyanga reflect its broader role in addressing skin-related health issues effectively.

66) Girija (Giri-ja):
Girija is an alternative name for Gairika in certain contexts, emphasizing its foundational role in traditional medicinal practices. The variety of names points to the cultural significance and regional adaptations of such minerals.

67) Shanka (Sanka, Samka):
Shanka refers to conch shells in Ayurveda, symbolizing purity and wellness. Its mention alongside Gairika may reflect the broader spectrum of substances used in Ayurveda to emphasize health, balance, and healing.

68) Shalya (Salya):
Shalya refers to the field of surgery and surgical techniques within Ayurveda. Gairika’s applications in surgical contexts highlight its versatility and importance in enhancing health outcomes and recovery processes.

69) Anjana (Amjana):
Anjana denotes a medicated eye ointment or preparation in Ayurveda, which sometimes includes minerals like Gairika. This highlights how such minerals are integrated into specific applications for eye health within traditional practices.

70) Vipaka:
Vipaka refers to the post-digestive effects of food and medicine. Understanding the vipaka of Gairika informs practitioners about its long-lasting impact on the body, influencing treatment strategies and dietary recommendations.

71) Parada:
Parada, or mercury, is a significant substance in Rasashastra known for its transformative properties. Its relationship with Gairika illustrates the layered complexity of mineral and metal applications in healing practices.

72) Chardi:
Chardi refers to vomiting or nausea within Ayurvedic pathology. Gairika's use in treating chardi conditions signifies its therapeutic efficacy in managing digestive disturbances and restoring balance in the body.

73) Gudika:
Gudika refers to solidified medicated preparations, often in tablet forms, utilized in Ayurvedic medicine. Gairika's role in gudika formulations emphasizes its importance in therapeutic strategies, providing easy and effective solutions for patients.

74) Sharman (Sarma, Sarman, Sharma):
Sharma is a common surname in India associated with scholars and practitioners in various fields, including Ayurveda. Figures like Dr. Divya Deepak Sharma contribute to the knowledge regarding minerals like Gairika in the field of Ayurvedic studies.

75) Pitha:
Peetha refers to a category of substances with specific qualities and uses in Ayurveda. Gairika’s mention in contexts involving peetha highlights its classification and therapeutic relevance, aiding practitioners in treatment formulation.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 92]

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