Abstract

MALLA SINDURA – A CRITICAL REVIEW

Dr. V. Shreeshananda Sharma and Dr. Kashyap*

ABSTRACT

Kupipakva process described for the first time in Rasa Prakasha Sudhakara as “Udaya Bhaskara Rasa” in 12th century. In 15th century, Acharya Anantadeva Suri mentions “Rasaparthiva Rasa” in his Rasachintamani book. Acharya Yashodharaji has also described Rasakarpura as “Ghanasara Rasa” in his book. He uses „Kachaghati‟ word for Kupi. Rasakaumudi, Rasakalpa Yoga (16th century) and Ayurveda Prakash (17th century) mention “Sinduranam Rasa” for Rasasindura. In 20th century, Rasa Tarangini describes plenty of drugs prepared by Kupipakva process. Some authors mention that final product which is sublimed in Kupi is a byproduct of Gandhaka Jarana. Malla Sindoora is one of the Kupipakwa Rasayanas prepared by a unique pharmaceutical process in Valuka Yantra, a specialized graduated heating system. Malla-Sindoora is a mineral formulation of Ayurveda and contains Malla. Malla is Arsenic Trioxide(As2O3). It is also known by many other names viz. Sankhiya, Gauripashana and Fenashma. Arsenic is a strong poison and in Ayurvedic medicines it is used only after proper detoxification.

Keywords: Malla Sindoora, Kupipakva Rasayana, Valuka Yantra, Arsenic.