Definition of Aushadhi Nirmana Vijnanam, Rasa and Rasa Shastra

Definition of Aushadhi Nirmana Vijnanam (Vigyan)

​Aushadhi Nirman Vigyan is a Sanskrit term that translates to “The Science of Medicine Manufacture.” It encompasses the comprehensive study and practice of formulating, preparing, and standardizing medicinal substances, primarily within the framework of Ayurvedic medicine. This discipline aligns closely with Rasa Shastra and Bhaishajya Kalpana, which focuses on the principles and methods of preparing various Ayurvedic formulations, ensuring their safety, efficacy, and quality. ​

In this field, practitioners delve into the identification, collection, processing, and preservation of medicinal herbs and minerals. They adhere to classical texts and traditional methodologies to maintain the therapeutic potency of these substances. The process often involves specific procedures to detoxify and enhance the medicinal properties of raw materials, ensuring they are safe and effective for therapeutic use. ​

• Aushadhi = medicine
• Nirmana = manufacturing or preparation
• Vigyan = Science

Overall, Aushadhi Nirman Vigyan plays a crucial role in the development and standardization of Ayurvedic medicines, bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary pharmaceutical practices to promote holistic health and well-being.

Definition of “Rasa”

1. “रसनात् सर्व धातुनाम् रस इत्यभिधीयते” (R.R.S)

rasanāt sarva dhātūnām rasa ityabhidhīyate

Rasa (here, Mercury) is that substance which is capable of engulfing and consuming (i.e., amalgamating with or dissolving) all metals (sarva-dhātu).

2. रसरूपिणी इति रसः । पारदोऽस्ति तत्स्वरूपं यस्य सा ॥ (R.H.T.)

rasa-rūpiṇī iti rasaḥ, pārado ’sti tat-svarūpaṃ yasya sā.

The substance which remains liquid (at room temperature) and can chemically interact with metals is called Rasa or Pārada (Mercury).

Key Interpretations

• Mercury is unique among metals because it stays in the liquid state at room temperature and forms amalgams with many other metals.
• In Ayurvedic terms, this “eating” or “engulfing” property signifies its capability to transform or bind with different dhātus (metals/minerals).

Definition of Rasa Śāstra

The term Rasa Śāstra is formed by two words:

• Rasa (रस) – referring primarily to Mercury (Pārada), though it can also represent other metallic and mineral substances.
• Śāstra (शास्त्र) – meaning science or treatise.

Thus, Rasa Śāstra literally means the “Science of Mercury.”

Scope of Rasa Shastra

It is a specialized branch of Ayurveda that deals extensively with “Rasa dravyas” (metallic, mineral, and mercurial substances) and their therapeutic preparations.

Mercury, which acts upon all metals, is called Rasa. Mercury is the only metal which can liquify or dissolve all other metals in itself. The treatise that elaborates on Mercury’s properties and processes is named Rasa Śāstra.

Rasa Śāstra deals primarily with:

1. Metals (e.g., Gold, Silver, Copper, Iron, etc.)
2. Minerals (e.g., Mica, Realgar, Orpiment, etc.)
3. Products of animal origin (e.g., corals, pearls, etc.)
4. Toxic herbs (e.g., semi-poisonous or poisonous plants)

When processed through proper Ayurvedic techniques (Śodhana, Mārana, etc.), these can be used safely and therapeutically.

Metals are considered “amṛta-kanda” (nectar-like) when properly processed with mercury.

Salient Features of Rasa Śāstra

1. Focus on Mercury (Pārada)
   • Central to many Rasa-yogas (formulations).
   • Undergoes 18 Saṃskāras (specific purification & processing) to make it safe and potent.
2. Inclusion of Metals and Minerals
   • Gold, Silver, Copper, Iron, and others are incinerated (mārana) into Bhasma form for therapeutic or alchemical applications.
3. Products of Animal Origin & Toxic Herbs
   • Substances like Shankha (conch), Pravāla (coral), or herbs like Vatsanābha (Aconite) are processed to remove toxicity and maximize efficacy.
4. Therapeutic & Alchemical Goals
   • Deha Siddhi: Strengthening and rejuvenating the human body.
   • Loha Siddhi: Converting lower metals into higher metals (the alchemical aspect).
5. Specialized Branch of Ayurveda
   • Deals not only with diseases but also with maintenance of health, longevity, and sometimes alchemy (dhātu-vāda).

Importance of These Definitions

1. Clarity of Terminology
   • “Rasa” primarily means Mercury, but also extends to pharmaceutical compounds (prepared medicines) in which mercury and/ or other metals/ minerals are used in Rasa Śāstra.
2. Foundation for Further Study
   • Understanding that “engulfing metals” property underscores Mercury’s broad metallurgical and therapeutic potential.
3. Integration with Ayurveda
   • Rasa Śāstra is not an isolated practice; it integrates with classical Ayurveda’s Chikitsā (therapeutics), Rasāyana (rejuvenation), and Vajīkaraṇa (aphrodisiac) concepts.

Conclusion

• Rasa Śāstra stands as a unique confluence of Ayurveda and alchemy, focusing on Mercury (Pārada) and other metallic-mineral substances.
• The classical definitions emphasize Mercury’s unparalleled chemical properties (liquid state, ability to form amalgams) and its transformative power (engulfing other metals).
• By adhering to precise purification and incineration methods, Rasa Śāstra aims to enhance potency, minimize toxicity, and contribute significantly to Ayurveda’s therapeutic and rejuvenative objectives.

In essence, Rasa Śāstra’s definitions guide us to understand:

• What Rasa is (Mercury’s special property), and
• What Rasa Śāstra does (integrates metals, minerals, and other substances into potent remedies).

Quick Recap Mnemonic

• R.A.S.A.
  • R – Rare property of mercury (liquid metal)
  • A – Amalgamation with all metals
  • S – Specialized branch of Ayurveda
  • A – Alchemical & Ayurvedic therapy