Abstract

PHARMACEUTICAL AND ANALYTICAL EVALUATION OF KRITRIMA HARATALA W.S.R TO RASA TARANGINI

Dr. Sumant Dayanand Gunaga*, Dr. Ravi R. Chavan MD (ayu), Dr. Lalitha MD (ayu)

ABSTRACT

Rasashastra is a specialized branch of Ayurveda that deals with the transformation and processing of metals, minerals, and other natural substances for therapeutic and alchemical purposes. Among these, Haratala (Orpiment) is an important mineral drug widely mentioned in classical texts for its medicinal value. It is classically employed in the treatment of Śleṣmaroga, Raktapitta, Vatarakta, and Kuṣṭha. The present study focuses on the artificial preparation (Kṛtrima Nirmaṇa) of Haratala using Shuddha Gauripaṣhaṇa[2] and Shuddha Gandhaka[3] by using Damaru Yantra[4], as described in Rasatarangini. The process was carried out under controlled conditions to replicate the traditional synthesis. The prepared Kṛtrima Haratala[1] was subjected to various analytical evaluations to determine its crystalline structure, particle size, elemental composition, and functional groups. The analytical results confirmed the formation of Kṛtrima Haratala with properties comparable to natural orpiment. This study validates the traditional method of Rasashastra through modern analytical techniques, emphasizing its reproducibility, standardization, and potential for safe therapeutic application.

Keywords: Kritrima Haratala; Gauripashana; Gandhaka; Rasa Tarangini; Artificial preparation of orpiment.