A Critical Review of Rasaratna Samucchaya

A Critical Review of Rasaratna Samucchaya

Author Name : Dr. Shagufta Yasmeen, Dr. B.L. Saini, Dr. Yashwant Kumar Parmar

ABSTRACT

Rasaratna Samuccaya (RRS) was authored by RasVagbhaṭa in 13^th century. It is an useful compilation of formulations of metal and mineral origin. This text describes about alchemy regarding extraction, purification, and conversion of metallic compounds into forms, suitable for absorption and assimilation in human body. RRS also describes about various instruments and procedures for dealing of herbo-mineral preparations. The importance and contribution of RRS in Indian alchemy is summarized hereby. Deepika Teeka by Pandit Hazari Lal Shukla founds in two parts first part is from chapter 1st to 11th. and Second part is from 12th to 30th chapter. In present study only 11 chapters described. 1st part which mainly comprises classical aspects of Rasashastra and 2^ndpart of the Samucchaya is mainly focused on clinical aspects of Rasayoga. It comprises of all eight branches of Ayurveda, although it mainly deals with therapeutic aspects of Rasashastra and emphasizes the use of metals and minerals in treating nearly 68 types of ailments. It contains 30 chapters, 3871 verses and detailed description of 960 formulations. Classification of metals and minerals; description of some new instruments, formulations and averting use of metals and minerals in pregnancy are the key features of RRS.

Key Words: Herbo‑mineral formulations, Rasaratna Samucchaya, Rasashastra,