A literary review on the study of hingula
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: A literary review on the study of hingula
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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Irfan S. Sheikh, Ravindra B. Ghaywate and Dipali P. Nijwante
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: A literary review on the study of hingula
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20222-23015
Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Hingula, or Cinnabar, is a significant mineral in the field of Ayurveda, primarily recognized for being a vital source of mercury. Its therapeutic applications are well-established in various Ayurvedic formulations, and it has been classified as a "Sadharana Rasa" by Acharya Vagbhata in his work "Rasaratna Samucchaya." Hingula exists in both native and artificial forms, with its traditional sourcing traced back to regions like Darada Desha (Northern Kashmir) and Mleccha Desha (China), whereas modern occurrences are found in Spain, Italy, and the United States. The composition of Hingula includes approximately 86.2% mercury and 13.8% sulfur, making it advantageous for multiple medical applications.
Therapeutic Uses of Hingula
Hingula is extensively utilized in treating various medical conditions within Ayurvedic medicine. Its purified form is indicated for ailments such as jwar (fever), prameha (diabetes), kushta (skin disorders), and amvata (rheumatoid arthritis). Additionally, Hingula is employed in various Ayurvedic formulations, including Hinguleshwar Rasa and Anandbhairav Rasa. The extraction process involves utilizing Parada, which is derived from Hingula and is believed to possess similar therapeutic properties without requiring purification.
Historical Context and Occurrence
The historical documentation of Hingula indicates its early usage from the Vedic period, with references in texts like the Garuda Purana that describe its application in treating ear diseases. Although there is no explicit mention in foundational texts like Charaka and Sushruta Samhita, Parada, which comprises Hingula, is acknowledged within these works. In more recent historical contexts, it was identified in "Koutilya Arthashastra," where it served purposes such as testing the purity of gold. The classification of Hingula varies; certain texts categorize it as Maharasa while others place it in the Uparasa or Sadharana categories, reflecting its versatile standing in Rasashastra.
Methods of Preparation and Purification
Hingula can be obtained through both natural and artificial means. Native Hingula is historically sourced from regions primarily in Kashmir, but artificial synthesis occurs in laboratories, particularly in India. In Ayurvedic practice, Hingula undergoes a specific purification process known as "Shodhana," which often involves bhavana (mixing) with various acidic substances. This preparation enhances its healing properties and minimizes toxicity, allowing it to be safely incorporated into medicinal formulations. Conditions arising from the intake of impure Hingula include blindness, emaciation, and various cognitive dysfunctions, underscoring the importance of purification before medicinal use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hingula remains a critical component of Ayurvedic medicine, recognized both for its historical significance and contemporary applications. It is crucial to ensure proper purification methods are employed due to the inherent toxicity of mercury when using Hingula therapeutically. While the traditional use of Hingula dates back over two millennia, a modern focus on safety and efficacy through rigorous studies is necessary for broader acceptance of Hingula-based remedies worldwide. Its widespread incorporation in various Ayurvedic formulations highlights its enduring relevance, although vigilant practices are required to mitigate associated health risks.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Hingula and its significance in Ayurveda?
Hingula, or Cinnabar, is a key mineral in Rasa-Shastra, mainly used for extracting mercury. It has therapeutic applications in various Ayurvedic formulations and is classified as Sadharana Rasa for its medicinal properties.
Where is Hingula primarily found in the modern era?
Currently, Hingula is mostly found in Spain, Italy, Western U.S.A., and Mexico. In India, it is rare, with most market supplies being artificially manufactured.
What are the major therapeutic uses of purified Hingula?
Purified Hingula is used in treating conditions like fever (Jwar), diabetes (Prameha), skin disorders (Kushta), and rheumatoid arthritis (Amvaat), making it valuable in Ayurvedic medicine.
What are the dangers of using unpurified Hingula?
Using Ashuddha (unpurified) Hingula can lead to serious health issues such as blindness, emaciation, delusion, and fatigue due to its toxicity.
How is Hingula purified for medicinal use?
Hingula purification, known as Shodhana, typically involves Bhavana with acidic substances, ensuring its safety and efficacy for therapeutic applications.
What are the historical references of Hingula in Ayurveda?
Hingula has been recognized since ancient texts, with references found in Garuda Purana and Koutilya Arthashastra. Its therapeutic use began in the 6th-8th century A.D.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “A literary review on the study of hingula”. 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) Hingula (Himgula):
Hingula, also known as Cinnabar, is a significant mineral in Ayurvedic medicine that serves as a primary source of mercury. It is noted for its applications in various herbal formulations and therapeutic practices, especially in Rasa Shastra, where its properties and uses are extensively documented.
2) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa translates to 'essence' or 'taste' in Sanskrit and is fundamental in Ayurvedic medicine. It refers to the therapeutic qualities of substances, particularly in Rasayana, where preparations aim to enhance health and vitality through mineral-based medicines designed for healing.
3) Powder:
In the context of Ayurvedic formulations, 'powder' refers to the ground form of herbs, minerals, and metals used for therapeutic purposes. The powder is essential as it facilitates the mixing and formulation of medicines, enhancing bioavailability and absorption in the body.
4) Bhavana (Bha-vana):
Bhavana is a Sanskrit term for the process of refining substances, often through repeated soaking or grinding with liquids like water or herbal juices. This method enhances the medicinal properties of herbs and minerals, making them more effective in therapeutic applications.
5) Parada:
Parada, or mercury, is a highly valued substance in Rasa Shastra and is often derived from Hingula. Its therapeutic significance lies in its usage in various formulations and its potential health benefits when processed and purified correctly.
6) Desha (Desa):
Desha means 'land' or 'region' in Sanskrit and is significant in establishing the geographical origin of medicinal plants and minerals. The sourcing of Hingula from regions such as Darada Desha and Mleccha Desha indicates the historical context of its medicinal use.
7) Shodhana (Sodhana):
Shodhana refers to the purification process of substances in Ayurvedic practice, especially minerals. This process is crucial for removing toxins and enhancing the safety and efficacy of substances like Hingula, making them suitable for medicinal use.
8) Darada (Dara-da):
Darada refers to a specific geographical region associated with the natural occurrence of Hingula. The historical significance of Darada Desha as a source of medicinal materials emphasizes the importance of location in traditional medicine.
9) Shuddha (Suddha):
Shuddha, meaning 'pure' in Sanskrit, describes the state of substances after undergoing purification through shodhana processes. Shuddha Hingula is vital for therapeutic use, ensuring that it is free from harmful impurities.
10) Mineral:
Minerals play a vital role in Ayurveda for their therapeutic properties. Substances like Hingula represent the integration of mineral-based therapies into traditional healing practices.
11) Kasturibhairava (Kasturi-bhairava):
Kasturibhairava is an Ayurvedic formulation that contains Hingula among other ingredients. Its relevance lies in its therapeutic applications to treat various ailments, showcasing the integration of Hingula in classical Ayurvedic medicine.
12) Sadharanarasa (Sadharana-rasa):
Sadharanarasa is a type of general or common mineral recognized in Ayurvedic texts. It highlights the classification within Rasa Shastra that situates Hingula among widely used therapeutic substances.
13) Sadharana:
Sadharana translates to 'common' or 'general,' indicating substances frequently used in traditional practices. This classification helps in organizing minerals and herbs based on their therapeutic roles and accessibility in Ayurvedic practices.
14) Samhita:
Samhitas are compiled ancient texts that provide insights into the principles of Ayurveda. They contain essential information on metals, minerals, and their therapeutic uses, including Hingula.
15) Ardraka:
Ardraka, or ginger, is an herbal ingredient frequently used in Bhavana processes with minerals like Hingula. Its inclusion enhances the therapeutic impact and palatability of Ayurvedic formulations.
16) Kashmir:
Kashmir is historically significant as the geographical region referred to in texts as a source of Hingula. Its natural resources highlight the importance of locality in traditional medicine procurement.
17) Marana:
Marana refers to the process of incinerating or metabolizing substances in Ayurvedic practice. It is particularly pertinent for transforming raw materials like Hingula into a usable medicinal form.
18) Varna:
Varna means 'color' in Sanskrit and often describes the physical characteristics of medicinal materials. For Hingula, the red color signifies purity and potency in its application in herbal formulations.
19) Cina:
China is mentioned as one of the historical sources of Hingula. Its significance lies in illustrating the ancient trade routes and the global context of Ayurvedic medicinal materials.
20) Purification:
Purification is a critical step in Ayurveda for removing toxins and enhancing the safety of substances such as Hingula. This process guarantees that the materials used for therapeutic purposes are safe for consumption.
21) Svedana:
Svedana refers to the process of sweating or steaming in Ayurvedic treatments. It is used in conjunction with mineral treatments to enhance detoxification and support the body's natural healing processes.
22) Prameha:
Prameha translates to 'diabetes' in Ayurvedic terms and is one of the diseased conditions where Hingula is therapeutically applied, showcasing its significance in managing metabolic health issues.
23) Sharava (Sarava):
Sharava is a vessel used in the processing of metals and minerals in Rasa Shastra. This traditional equipment is essential for carrying out procedures like Marana and Bhavana, ensuring proper handling of substances.
24) Mahishi (Mahisi):
Mahishi, or buffalo milk, is often employed in the Bhavana process to enhance the therapeutic properties of Hingula. Its rich nutrient profile contributes to the efficacy of Ayurvedic formulations.
25) Heating:
Heating is a crucial aspect of processes like Marana and Shodhana in Ayurveda, used to transform and purify substances such as Hingula, ensuring they attain the desired medicinal properties.
26) Dravya:
Dravyas pertains to substances used in medicinal formulations in Ayurveda, encompassing both plant and mineral origins. This term emphasizes the wide range of materials that contribute to therapeutic contexts.
27) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha signifies the three fundamental bodily energies in Ayurveda—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Understanding the dosha balance is critical in determining the therapeutic approach using Hingula and other substances.
28) Satva (Shatva):
Satva pertains to the essence derived from processing materials like Hingula. This extraction process is essential to harnessing the benefits of minerals in traditional therapy for healing purposes.
29) Water:
Water is often used as a medium in various Ayurvedic processes, including Bhavana and Svedana. It serves as a solvent to enhance the absorption and efficacy of herbal formulations.
30) Table:
In academic and research contexts, tables summarize data and findings. In the study of Hingula and its applications, tables can effectively present the properties, classifications, or therapeutic applications of this mineral.
31) Puta:
Putas are batches or processes related to the heating or incinerating of materials in Ayurveda. This term emphasizes the importance of precise procedures in transforming Hingula into its medicinal form.
32) Gold (Golden):
Gold, alongside other precious metals, is historically noted for its extraction processes involving Hingula. It reflects the traditional practices where metals were treated and refined using Ayurvedic principles.
33) Mlecchadesha (Mlecchadesa, Mleccha-desha):
Mleccha-desha indicates regions outside traditional or Aryan influence, often referenced in classical texts. Places like China are categorized this way, highlighting their role in sourcing materials like Hingula.
34) Rasashastra (Rasa-shastra, Rasasastra):
Rasashastra is the branch of Ayurvedic science focused on the study and application of metals and minerals. It encompasses techniques related to Hingula and highlights its significant role in Ayurvedic healing.
35) Satvapatana:
Satvapatana is a specific Ayurvedic process used to extract the benevolent essence (satva) from materials like Hingula. It is crucial for creating potent medicinal preparations that retain the healing properties of the original materials.
36) Amladravya (Amla-dravya):
Amla-dravya refers to sour substances used in the Ayurvedic purification process. Ingredients such as lemon or tamarind enhance the effectiveness of shodhana and bhavana processes applied to Hingula.
37) Hamsapada (Hamsa-pada):
Hamsapada refers to a type of Hingula distinguished by its color and composition. Classifying Hingula in this way demonstrates the diversity of forms and qualities within the same mineral category.
38) Rasarnava:
Rasarnava is an authoritative text that provides vital guidelines on the preparation and application of mercurial minerals. It plays a central role in preserving ancient knowledge about Hingula's uses and benefits.
39) Education:
Education is crucial in disseminating knowledge about Ayurvedic practices, including the usage of Hingula. It fosters an understanding of ancient methodologies and their application in contemporary medicine.
40) Maharasa (Maha-rasa):
Maharasa denotes superior or exalted minerals in Ayurvedic texts. Hingula's classification may vary, and understanding its place within Maharasa literature helps contextualize its therapeutic significance.
41) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana refers to rejuvenating therapies in Ayurveda aimed at promoting health and longevity. Hingula, when processed properly, is integrated into Rasayana formulations for its revitalizing properties.
42) Toxicity:
Toxicity is a significant concern when using substances like Hingula due to its mercury content. Ensuring proper purification and dosage is essential to minimize risks and enhance safety in therapeutic applications.
43) Delusion (Deluded):
Delusion is a potential side effect associated with the intake of unpurified Hingula. This highlights the importance of rigorous purification practices to avoid adverse health outcomes in patients.
44) Mleccha:
Mleccha refers to individuals or regions considered outside the traditional Aryan culture. This term has implications in historical texts that discuss the acquisition of materials like Hingula from diverse cultural backgrounds.
45) Amavata (Ama-vata):
Amavata, or rheumatoid arthritis, is an ailment often treated with Hingula in Ayurvedic medicine. Its application emphasizes the medicinal use of this mineral in managing complex inflammatory conditions.
46) Disease:
In Ayurvedic practice, Hingula is employed to manage various diseases due to its therapeutic effects. This highlights its importance as a natural remedy in the treatment spectrum of health issues.
47) Madhya:
Madhya denotes central or middle regions and may refer to areas significant for sourcing minerals like Hingula in historical and geographical contexts related to Ayurvedic practices.
48) Jarana:
Jarana refers to the process of metabolism and transformation of substances in Ayurveda. It emphasizes the importance of proper processing of materials like Hingula to enhance their medicinal value.
49) Dugdha:
Dugdha, or milk, is often used in various Ayurvedic processes, including shodhana and bhavana. It contributes to the nutritional value of formulations containing Hingula, enhancing their therapeutic effects.
50) Pushpa (Puspa):
Pushpa means flower and is frequently referenced in Ayurvedic texts for its medicinal properties. The color symbolism, such as Japa-pushpa, is often associated with Hingula's appearances and can enhance its holistic definitions.
51) Khanda (Khamda):
Khanda refers to a specific preparation or segment in Ayurvedic formulations where Hingula may be utilized. This indicates the traditional methodologies employed in the categorization and use of medicinal materials.
52) Silver:
Like gold, silver is another precious metal often referenced alongside Hingula in traditional extraction practices. Understanding these processes illustrates the historical significance of minerals in ancient Ayurvedic alchemy.
53) Karma (Karman):
Karma in Ayurveda refers to the effects or actions of substances within the body. Understanding how Hingula interacts and transforms into therapeutic actions is central to Ayurvedic healing practices.
54) Ushna (Usna):
Ushna means 'hot' and refers to the property of some substances in Ayurveda that warm the body. Hingula is hot in potency and is often used to treat cold conditions or imbalances in the body.
55) India:
India is the birthplace of Ayurveda and has a rich history of using minerals like Hingula therapeutically. The extensive traditional knowledge and practices surrounding these minerals set the foundation for modern Ayurveda.
56) Veda:
Vedic texts lay the groundwork for Ayurvedic knowledge, including the principles relating to minerals like Hingula. This ancient education continues to influence contemporary practices and beliefs in Ayurvedic healing.
57) Surata (Surat, Su-rata, Shurata):
Surat is noted as a region where artificial Hingula preparation occurs. It illustrates the modern adaptation and continued relevance of ancient techniques in today's medicinal mineral processing.
58) Katu:
Katu refers to 'pungent' and denotes a flavor profile important in Ayurvedic medicine. The attributes of Hingula may include aspects of Katu, influencing its use in balancing doshas.
59) Amla:
Amla refers to sour substances, commonly used in Ayurvedic formulations for their purifying properties. Amla-dravyas are integral for processing Hingula during purification and enhancing its therapeutic effects.
60) Rheumatoid arthritis:
Rheumatoid arthritis, known as Amavata, is a chronic inflammatory condition treated with Hingula in Ayurveda. The mineral's properties make it valuable in formulations targeting inflammation and joint health.
61) Rasaushadhi (Rasa-aushadhi, Rasausadhi):
Rasa-aushadhi refers specifically to medicines derived from minerals, including Hingula. This categorization captures the essence of Ayurvedic pharmacology that integrates metals and minerals for holistic healing.
62) Red lead:
Red lead historically refers to a related compound of lead. Understanding its references in classical texts provides context for the traditional use and alchemical significance of minerals like Hingula in ancient practices.
63) Rasaprakashasudhakara (Rasaprakasasudhakara, Rasaprakasa-sudhakara):
Rasaprakasha-sudhakara is a classical text detailing the medicinal uses of minerals like Hingula. It serves as an authoritative resource in Rasa Shastra, guiding practitioners on preparation and application.
64) Rasahridayatantra (Rasahrdayatantra, Rasahridaya-tantra):
Rasahridayatantra is another key text in Rasa Shastra that discusses the therapeutic properties and processing of minerals like Hingula, cementing its importance in Ayurvedic education.
65) Sushruta-samhita (Susruta-samhita):
Sushruta-samhita is one of the foundational texts of Ayurveda, referencing various minerals and their usage in therapies. The inclusion of Hingula illustrates its acknowledged medicinal properties.
66) Shuddhagandhaka (Suddhagandhaka, Shuddha-gandhaka):
Shuddha-gandhaka refers to purified sulfur used in Ayurvedic practices. Its combination with Hingula underscores the traditional approaches to enhancing the efficacy of mineral-based medicines.
67) Kushmandakhanda (Kushmanda-khanda, Kusmandakhanda):
Kushmanda-khanda refers to a specific preparation in Ayurveda that may involve Hingula. Understanding its context helps delineate how various materials are systematically utilized in formulations.
68) Samdhibandhana (Sandhibandhana, Sandhi-bandhana, Samdhi-bandhana):
Sandhi-bandhana relates to the process of sealing or joining both materials and energies in Ayurvedic treatments. Its practices are important in ensuring effective formulations involving Hingula and other components.
69) Anandabhairava (Ananda-bhairava):
Anandabhairava is an Ayurvedic formulation that incorporates Hingula, highlighting its application in healing and health improvement practices that utilize mineral elements for therapeutic effects.
70) Garudapurana (Garuda-Purana):
Garuda-Purana is a classical text that references Hingula regarding ear diseases. Such historical texts showcase how ancient practitioners integrated minerals into their healing systems across various ailments.
71) Kanakasundara (Kanaka-sundara):
Kanakasundara refers to a noteworthy Ayurvedic formulation that may utilize Hingula, showcasing the integration of minerals and herbal components in traditional medicine systems.
72) Arthashastra (Arthasastra, Artha-shastra):
Arthashastra is an ancient text that covers various aspects of statecraft, including commerce and trade, indirectly reflecting the historical significance of materials like Hingula in economic contexts.
73) Patanayantra (Patana-yantra):
Patanayantra denotes the apparatus used for specific processing methods in Ayurveda, including the extraction of Satva from Hingula. Understanding these methods is important for traditional mineral processing techniques.
74) Shringavera (Srngavera, Shringa-vera, Shrimgavera):
Shringavera, or ginger, is often used in Ayurvedic formulations and processes involving Hingula, highlighting its therapeutic synergy and enhancing the overall effectiveness of medicinal products.
75) Adhahpatana (Adha-patana):
Adha-patana refers to a method involving layered processing of substances, particularly in extracting Satva. It emphasizes the intricate traditional techniques employed in preparing materials like Hingula for medicinal purposes.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 162]
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘A literary review on the study of hingula’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Rasashastra, Sadharanarasa, Vedic Period, Samhita period, Chemical composition, Ayurvedic formulation, Acharya Vagbhata, Prameha (Diabetes), Kushta (skin disorders).
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