Observetional study of gandhak shodhan process of afi
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Observetional study of gandhak shodhan process of afi
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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Dr. Pritika Devi, Dr. Keshav Rana, Dr. C. P. Kashyap and Dr. J. R. Sankhyan
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Observetional study of gandhak shodhan process of afi
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20179-9175
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Rasashastra is a traditional science in Ayurveda focused on the properties and applications of mercury (Parad) and various minerals, herbs, and metals. This study particularly examines the process of Gandhak shodhan, which is critical for purifying the mineral sulphur (Gandhak) before its use in Ayurvedic formulations. The shodhan process is believed to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of Gandhak and remove impurities that could lead to adverse effects if used in its unrefined form. This research highlights the importance of Gandhak shodhan and explores the method and its implications for treatment.
The Importance of Gandhak Shodhan
The Gandhak shodhan process is vital in Ayurveda to ensure the safety and efficacy of formulations that include sulphur as an ingredient. The purification procedure actively removes impurities such as silica and potential toxins, which if retained, may lead to various health issues categorized as kushath, taap, and other pittaj conditions. By employing the dhalan method using cow ghee (goghrita) and cow milk (godugdha), Gandhak can be refined effectively to enhance its therapeutic properties while minimizing health risks. This practice underscores a foundational principle in Ayurveda, which posits that the therapeutic efficacy of a substance is significantly influenced by its purity.
The Dhalan Method of Shodhan
The study outlines the dhalan method utilized for the shodhan of Gandhak. This method requires precise measurements and a controlled process involving equal quantities of goghrita and godugdha. The process entails first melting the ghee, then incorporating powdered Gandhak, and finally filtering the mixture through a muslin cloth. This technique is repeated three times to ensure thorough purification. The study notes a yield of approximately 490 grams of Gandhak after shodhan from an initial 500 grams, indicating a minimal percentage loss. Parameters such as taste, smell, and physical state were observed pre-and post-shodhan, showing significant changes that support the method's efficacy.
Observations and Results
Various parameters were tracked during the study, including color, state, and yield before and after the shodhan process. Initially, the Gandhak appeared as a bright yellow crystalline solid, which transformed into a reddish-brown liquid when heated, and subsequently changed to a dark yellow granular form after purifying. The study emphasizes the importance of maintaining safe temperatures and conditions throughout the procedure to prevent hazards associated with volatile compounds released during sublimation. Precautions such as using fresh materials for each dhalan and maintaining appropriate handling measures to avoid risks associated with molten Gandhak were highlighted.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Gandhak shodhan process is an essential practice in Ayurveda, particularly for the preparation of Rasa-aushadhi formulations. By purifying sulphur through the dhalan process, practitioners can ensure the safety and enhanced therapeutic benefits of Gandhak. The study emphasizes the significance of adhering to traditional methods while modifying them in accordance with contemporary standards. Furthermore, documentation of the shodhan process provides valuable insights for future formulations, establishing a guideline for the effective use of minerals in Ayurvedic medicine. The results underline the historical and ongoing relevance of these practices in modern holistic health approaches.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the significance of Gandhak Shodhan in Ayurvedic medicine?
Gandhak Shodhan is crucial as it removes impurities from Gandhak, enhancing its therapeutic properties and preventing harmful effects if ashudh (impure) Gandhak is used.
What ingredients are typically used in the Dhalan process?
The Dhalan process commonly uses goghrita (cow ghee) and godugdha (cow milk) to purify Gandhak, promoting its efficacy for medicinal use.
What changes occur to Gandhak during the Shodhan process?
During Shodhan, Gandhak changes from a bright yellow crystalline solid to a dark yellow granular form, indicating purification and loss of impurities.
What precautions should be taken during the Gandhak Shodhan process?
Precautions include maintaining temperature, continuous stirring, using fresh materials for each Dhalan, and ensuring safety due to Gandhak's flammability.
How does one measure the yield after Gandhak Shodhan?
The yield is measured by the amount of purified Gandhak obtained post-Shodhan, which typically results in minimal loss, around 2% in this study.
What therapeutic properties does Shuddha Gandhak exhibit after Shodhan?
Shuddha Gandhak possesses powerful antimicrobial properties, making it effective for treating skin disorders and enhancing overall health.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Observetional study of gandhak shodhan process of afi”. 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) Goghrita (Goghrta, Go-ghrita):
Go-ghrita is the term specifically referring to cow ghee used in Ayurvedic formulations. Its significance lies in its role as a base for numerous preparations and its therapeutic properties, especially in purification processes. Ghee enhances the absorption of minerals and herbs, ensuring the effective delivery of medicinal benefits in treatments.
2) Godugdha:
Godugdha refers to cow's milk utilized in Ayurvedic processes, particularly in the shodhan (purification) of Gandhak. Its significance comes from its nutritional benefits and role in preparing herbal-mineral mixtures. By combining with ghee, it aids in diminishing the harsh qualities of raw minerals, thereby making them safer for consumption.
3) Mineral:
Minerals are fundamental components used in Rasashastra, the branch of Ayurveda that deals with their therapeutic applications. They are employed to develop various formulations with medicinal properties. However, raw minerals often contain impurities, which necessitate proper purification processes like shodhan to ensure safety and efficacy in treatments.
4) India:
India is the historical and cultural birthplace of Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine that emphasizes the use of natural ingredients, including herbs, minerals, and metals for healing. The richness of its biodiversity provides numerous resources for Ayurvedic treatments, reinforcing the importance of traditional practices rooted in Indian heritage.
5) Muslin:
Muslin is a lightweight, finely woven cotton fabric used in the shodhan process to strain and filter substances. Its relevance comes from its ability to effectively separate the purified formulations from impurities, ensuring the integrity of Ayurvedic preparations. The choice of muslin is essential for maintaining cleanliness in formulations.
6) Varga:
Varga refers to the classification of substances in Ayurveda that categorizes them based on their properties and functions. In the context of Gandhak, it is classified under uprasa varga, highlighting its medicinal uses. This systematic categorization helps practitioners select appropriate substances for specific therapeutic applications.
7) Container:
Containers are essential tools used in Ayurvedic practices for the preparation and storage of medicinal formulations. In the shodhan process, stainless steel containers are preferred to avoid contamination and maintain the purity of the materials. The choice of the right container plays a vital role in preserving the effectiveness of treatments.
8) Shastra (Sastra):
Shastra signifies a body of knowledge or science, often referring to classical texts in Ayurveda that outline principles, practices, and methodologies. In Rasashastra, it encompasses the study of minerals and their applications in medicine. Understanding shastra is crucial for practitioners to ensure the safe and effective use of substances.
9) Kalpana:
Kalpana means preparation or formulation in Ayurveda, specifically regarding methods for crafting medicinal substances from herbs and minerals. This term emphasizes the intricate processes involved in creating effective Ayurvedic treatments, showcasing the thoughtful combinations of ingredients to enhance their therapeutic potential for various ailments.
10) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that focuses on holistic health and wellness through the use of herbs, minerals, and lifestyle practices. It emphasizes balance within the body and the natural world, employing various techniques for disease prevention and healing. This traditional knowledge remains influential in contemporary health practices.
11) Study (Studying):
In the context of the article, a study refers to the systematic investigation into the shodhan process of Gandhak to understand its effects and yield. Such studies are essential for validating traditional practices with scientific methods and enhancing knowledge of Ayurveda, contributing to the understanding of its efficacy.
12) Rasashastra (Rasa-shastra, Rasasastra):
Rasashastra is a specialized branch of Ayurveda that deals with the study and application of medicinal minerals, metals, and their compounds. It focuses on the preparation, purification, and therapeutic use of these substances. Understanding Rasashastra is vital for effectively utilizing minerals in treatments to ensure safety and efficacy.
13) Kushthari (Kusthari, Kushtha-ari):
Kushthari refers to substances or drugs that are effective against skin diseases. In Ayurveda, Gandhak holds this property, thus being classified as kushthari. Its antimicrobial properties have made it a significant ingredient in formulations aimed at treating various skin conditions, highlighting the importance of its purification process for safety.
14) Rasamrita (Rasamrta, Rasa-amrita):
Rasamrita is a classical text in Ayurveda that provides guidelines for the preparation and application of medicinal substances. It includes mentions of shodhan processes and quantities for effective formulations. This text serves as a reference point for practitioners seeking to adhere to traditional methodologies while formulating treatments.
15) Pungent:
Pungent describes a strong, sharp taste or smell, often associated with certain herbs and minerals in Ayurveda. Substances with pungent qualities may cause irritation in large quantities but can also stimulate digestion and circulation. The presence of pungency in ingredients like Gandhak plays a role in its therapeutic evaluation.
16) Heating:
Heating is a fundamental step in the purification and preparation processes in Ayurveda. It serves to activate the medicinal properties of substances like Gandhak when combined with ghee and milk. Proper heating ensures the transformation of the physical state of ingredients, which is essential for enhancing their therapeutic benefits.
17) Pouring:
Pouring is a critical action in the shodhan process, especially when separating the purified substance from its carrier mediums like ghee and milk. This step requires precision to ensure complete transfer while avoiding contamination. It emphasizes the meticulous nature of Ayurvedic preparations where every action can influence the final product.
18) Disease:
In Ayurveda, disease is viewed as an imbalance within the body, which can often be treated through the use of medicinal herbs and minerals like Gandhak. Understanding the causes and manifestations of diseases is crucial for practitioners to formulate appropriate treatments that restore health and well-being to patients.
19) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa refers to the intrinsic properties or tastes of a substance in Ayurveda, playing a role in determining its effects on the body. It is also closely associated with Rasaushadhi preparations, which are herbomineral combinations. Rasa is fundamental in formulating treatments tailored to balance the doshas in individuals.
20) Devi:
Devi is a title often used to denote respect towards women, particularly in the context of Ayurveda, where female practitioners contribute to traditional knowledge and practices. Acknowledgment of their roles underscores the inclusivity of Ayurvedic practices and the importance of diverse contributions in the field of health and well-being.
21) Ghi (Ghee):
Ghee is clarified butter widely used in Ayurvedic practices due to its rich nutritional value and health benefits. It serves as a vehicle for enhancing the absorption of medicinal properties in herbal formulations. In the purification of minerals, ghee plays a vital role in neutralizing toxins and balancing their harsh effects.
22) Drug:
In Ayurveda, drugs refer to substances, including herbs and minerals, used for therapeutic purposes. The classification of these drugs is based on their properties and effects on the human body. Understanding the pharmacological aspects of these substances is essential for crafting effective Ayurvedic treatments that address specific health conditions.
23) Human body:
The human body is the central focus in Ayurvedic medicine, which aims to achieve balance and health through natural remedies. Ayurveda recognizes the body's innate ability to heal and emphasizes the importance of diet, lifestyle, and herbal formulations in maintaining well-being, tailoring treatments to individual constitution and needs.
24) Cow milk (Cow's milk):
Cow milk, referred to as godugdha in Ayurveda, is valued for its nutritional properties and role in various formulations. It is often used in shodhan processes to mediate the purification of minerals like Gandhak. Its significance lies in providing health benefits while serving as a medium for healing substances.
25) Rasaushadhi (Rasa-aushadhi, Rasausadhi):
Rasaushadhi are preparations that combine herbal and mineral components in Ayurveda, aimed at addressing various health conditions. Their effectiveness relies on appropriate preparation and purification methods to enhance bioavailability and therapeutic action. Understanding Rasaushadhi is essential for practitioners creating balanced formulations tailored to patients' needs.
26) Tastelessness:
Tastelessness indicates a lack of flavor, which is a quality associated with certain herbal formulations that may be more easily absorbed by the body. In Ayurveda, tasteless drugs are often used in small doses for treatments, highlighting the importance of their formulation to ensure that they do not disrupt the palate while remaining effective.
27) Purification:
Purification is a fundamental process in Ayurveda aimed at removing impurities from herbs and minerals before their medicinal use. In relation to Gandhak, this involves methods such as shodhan to ensure the safety and efficacy of the substance. Effective purification enhances the therapeutic value of ingredients in Ayurvedic formulations.
28) Observation:
Observation refers to the systematic examination of changes during Ayurvedic processes, such as shodhan, to draw conclusions about efficacy and yield. It is a critical component of scientific inquiry in Ayurveda that aids practitioners in refining processes while ensuring that traditional methods are validated through empirical evidence.
29) Rasavarga (Rasa-varga):
Rasa-varga categorizes substances with medicinal properties in Ayurveda, especially minerals. This classification helps in understanding their potential therapeutic uses, guiding practitioners in selecting appropriate materials for specific treatments. Knowledge of rasa-varga is crucial for formulating safe and effective Ayurveda remedies using mineral-based ingredients.
30) Lohavarga (Loha-varga):
Loha-varga is the classification of metals in Ayurveda, highlighting their specific medicinal properties and applications. This categorization is essential in Rasashastra for understanding how different metals can be used therapeutically. Awareness of loha-varga informs practitioners when creating formulations that may incorporate metals for various health benefits.
31) Discussion:
Discussion in this context refers to the analysis and interpretation of findings from the study of Gandhak shodhan processes. Engaging in discussions allows practitioners to share insights, validate methods, and explore areas for improvement in formulation practices. It is vital for advancing knowledge within Ayurvedic medicine and enhancing therapeutic outcomes.
32) Science (Scientific):
Science refers to the systematic study of the natural world, and in Ayurveda, it encompasses the exploration of medicinal properties of various substances through empirical research and validation. Emphasizing a scientific approach encourages rigorous evaluation of traditional practices, enhancing their credibility and fostering greater acceptance in modern health paradigms.
33) Tikshnata (Tiksnata):
Tikshnata refers to the sharpness or potency of a substance, often indicating its potential irritant effects. In the context of Ayurveda, understanding tikshnata is crucial, especially when working with raw minerals like Gandhak, as it informs practitioners how to mitigate adverse effects during purification and preparation for therapeutic use.
34) Maharasa (Maha-rasa):
Maharasa refers to the class of supreme or potent substances classified in Rasashastra, particularly associated with powerful therapeutic effects. Understanding maharasa is essential for practitioners aiming to create highly effective formulations that leverage these powerful ingredients for addressing complex health conditions in Ayurvedic medicine.
35) Mandagni (Manda-agni, Mamdagni):
Mandagni refers to low heat, which is important in the cooking or preparation processes in Ayurveda, particularly for substances that may ignite or release harmful compounds if heated too quickly. Maintaining mandagni ensures more controlled processing of materials, leading to safer and more effective Ayurvedic formulations.
36) Aushadhi (Ausadhi, Aushadhin, Ausadhin):
Aushadhi translates to herbal medicines used in Ayurveda for therapeutic purposes. It encompasses a wide variety of plant-based substances and their medicinal properties, emphasizing the diversity of healing agents rooted in nature. Understanding aushadhi is critical for practitioners when crafting effective treatments that harness the healing power of herbs.
37) Language:
Language in this context pertains to the terminologies and vocabularies used in Ayurvedic texts and conversations. Understanding the specific language of Ayurveda is critical for practitioners to accurately convey concepts, methodologies, and medicinal properties when sharing knowledge with peers or patients, ensuring effective communication within the field.
38) Murchana (Murcchana):
Murchana refers to a specific purification process in Ayurveda that involves the use of certain substances to enhance the physical properties of minerals and herbs. This technique is crucial for preparing effective formulations, as it maximizes the therapeutic benefits by ensuring that only the purest forms of substances are utilized.
39) Parpati:
Parpati is an Ayurvedic preparation involving the combination of processes using medicinal metals and minerals, often for chronic ailments. It exemplifies the complexity and artistry in Ayurvedic formulations, showcasing how finely crafted processes can yield potent therapeutic products tailored for specific health conditions.
40) Kajjali:
Kajjali is a specific Ayurvedic formulation made by grinding together equal parts of mercury and sulfur. This herbomineral preparation is known for its potent therapeutic effects, particularly in treating various ailments. Knowledge of kajjali is important for practitioners creating formulations that include this powerful combination.
41) Shuddha (Suddha):
Shuddha signifies purity in the context of Ayurveda, particularly relating to ingredients used in formulations. Ensuring shuddha status means that the substances are free from toxins and impurities, thereby enhancing their safety and efficacy in treatment. Understanding shuddha is essential for practitioners before administering any Ayurvedic formulations.
42) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Burned refers to the method of subjecting substances to high temperatures during preparation, crucial for transforming raw materials into bioavailable forms. This process ensures the removal of unwanted qualities, thus improving the safety and efficacy of Ayurvedic medicines. Understanding the burned state of materials is vital in formulation preparation.
43) Dravya:
Dravya translates to substances or materials used in Ayurveda, including herbs, minerals, and compounds for medicinal purposes. Understanding dravya is essential for practitioners to evaluate the properties, preparation methods, and therapeutic applications of various ingredients, facilitating the development of effective treatment strategies.
44) Bhasma (Bhasman):
Bhasma refers to fine ash or incinerated powders made from minerals or metals in Ayurveda, often utilized for therapeutic applications. The preparation process of bhasma is rigorous, ensuring the removal of impurities and enhancing its potency, thus making it a vital component in various Ayurvedic formulations aimed at restoring health.
45) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita, or ghee, is an essential ingredient in Ayurveda, valued for its rich nutritional properties and role in enhancing the absorption of medicinal ingredients. Used in purification processes and formulations, ghrita helps balance the properties of harsh minerals and facilitates the therapeutic benefits of different herbal mixtures.
46) Jarana:
Jarana involves the heating and transformation of mineral substances in Ayurvedic practices. This transformation process is crucial in preparing minerals for therapeutic use, ensuring they are rendered safe and effective for internal administration. Understanding jarana is essential for practitioners creating formulations with minerals.
47) Marana:
Marana is the process of incineration or calcination in Ayurveda applied to minerals and metals to enhance their properties for therapeutic use. This rigorous process ensures that impurities are eliminated while maximizing the effectiveness of the substances, playing a key role in the preparation of potent Ayurvedic formulations.
48) Bitter:
Bitter refers to one of the four primary tastes recognized in Ayurveda, often associated with detoxifying effects and stimulating digestive processes. Many medicinal herbs, including some formulations containing Gandhak, may exhibit bitterness, making it essential for practitioners to understand the implications of taste in creating effective treatments.
49) Nature:
Nature represents the vast array of substances sourced from the environment, integral to Ayurveda's holistic approach to health. The philosophy of Ayurveda emphasizes utilizing natural resources responsibly for healing, reinforcing the connection between individual well-being and the balance found in the natural world.
50) Reason:
Reason pertains to the logical explanation behind certain practices and formulations in Ayurveda. Understanding the rationale is crucial for practitioners as it forms the basis for applying traditional knowledge to contemporary health issues, validating the efficacy of Ayurvedic treatments through reasoned methodologies.
51) Silver:
Silver, along with other metals, is studied within Rasashastra for its potential therapeutic properties. Its classification under loha-varga highlights its importance in formulating treatments that can address various health conditions. Knowledge of silver’s uses is essential for practitioners specializing in mineral-based Ayurvedic medicine.
52) Shila (Sila):
Shila refers to stone or crystalline substances found in nature, which can be utilized in Ayurvedic practices. Understanding the properties of shila is essential for practitioners as it can influence the choice of materials used in formulations and the methods needed for purification to promote effective healing.
53) Virya:
Virya refers to the potency or the inherent strength of a substance in Ayurveda, influencing its therapeutic action. The virya of various ingredients determines how they interact with doshas in the body, making it an essential factor for practitioners to consider when creating balanced and effective formulations for patients.
54) Water:
Water is often used as a medium in Ayurvedic processes for diluting, dissolving, or preparing herbal formulations. It plays a vital role in enhancing the bioavailability of certain substances and in various purification methods. Understanding the role of water is key for practitioners to effectively harness the medicinal properties of herbs and minerals.
55) Loha:
Loha refers to metals utilized in Ayurvedic medicine, valued for their therapeutic properties and classified under loha-varga. Understanding the characteristics and preparation methods for different types of loha is important for practitioners to create effective mineral-based formulations and ensure their safe application in treating health conditions.
56) Hair:
Hair is a structural component of the human body that may have implications in Ayurvedic treatments related to skin and beauty. Ayurvedic formulations often target hair health, utilizing specific herbs and minerals to address issues such as hair loss or scalp conditions, emphasizing the holistic approach to wellness.
57) Fire:
Fire symbolizes transformation and energy in Ayurveda, representing the processes involved in cooking, heating, and purifying substances. It is essential for activating and enhancing the properties of medicinal ingredients, highlighting the need for careful control of heat during preparation to ensure the efficacy and safety of Ayurvedic formulations.
58) Milk:
Milk, especially cow's milk (godugdha), serves as a critical ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine for its nutritional benefits and role in various formulations. It is often used during the purification of minerals to mitigate harsh properties, reinforcing the treatment's overall effectiveness and highlighting the importance of quality ingredients in healing.