Ayurvedic Minerals Gems and Animal Products for Longevity and Rejuvenation (Indian Medical Science Series No. 160)

Product Details

• Publisher: Sri Satguru Publications

• Author: Dr. H. S. Puri

• Language: English

• Pages: 224 (7 B/W Illustrations)

• Cover: Paperback

• Dimensions: 21.5 cm x 14 cm

• Weight: 260 gm

• Edition: 2007

• ISBN: 9788170308508

Book Description

Foreword
Nagarjuna, the father of Rasashastra, famously asserted that he would free the world from poverty and diseases. His mastery of converting low metals into precious ones like gold and his development of numerous mercurial therapeutic preparations for disease elimination have left a lasting legacy.

In essence, Rasashastra focuses on Ayurvedic metallo-mineral pharmaceuticals and therapeutics. It primarily concerns itself with drugs of mineral origin, their varieties, characteristics, processing techniques, properties, and therapeutic uses. The term "Rasashastra" is derived from two words: "Rasa" (which can mean either "an absorbable form of drugs" or "mercury") and "Sastra" (meaning science or knowledge). Rasayana, in this context, refers to the science of converting drugs, whether herbal, mineral, or animal-based, into absorbable forms for therapeutic use. The main objectives of Rasashastra include:

• Dhatuvedah: Converting low metals into precious ones.

• Dehavedah: Enhancing bodily strength and disease resistance using mercurial preparations.

Rasashastra became a fully developed field of study around the 6th century A.D., though earlier references to it are found in the Caraka and Sushruta Samhitas.

Preface
Recent research has revealed that many items used in rejuvenation and longevity (Rasayana) possess antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and adaptogenic properties. These qualities help combat stress, aging, and even sexual inadequacies. The term Rasayana combines "Rasa" (extract) and "Ayana" (path), referring to substances that improve the quality of Rasadhatu (bodily tissues formed from nutrient extracts).

According to the Caraka Samhita, the use of Rasayana can confer longevity, restored youth, sharp memory, enhanced intelligence, freedom from diseases, and even a strong, horse-like sexual vitality. These effects are believed to stem from their ability to modulate the body’s systems, possibly through psycho-neuro-immunology. Research supports this, showing that Rasayana preparations enhance immune function, protect against infections, and even reduce mortality when used alongside conventional treatments.

Rasayana can consist of single herbs or compound formulations derived from a wide range of substances, including minerals, gems, and animal products. The importance of animal products such as coral, shells, pearls, and musk in Ayurvedic medicine, particularly in Rasayana formulations, is highlighted. These components, rich in minerals, support various bodily functions, while the fragrance of some—like musk—affects the nervous system.

This book is a compilation of information on Ayurvedic rejuvenation, focusing on minerals, gems, and animal products that have Rasayana-like effects. It includes details on the preparation, processing, and therapeutic use of these materials, including Shilajit, which has gained prominence for its therapeutic properties.

Back of the Book
Recent surveys show that the therapeutic efficacy of minerals, gems, and animal products, particularly mercury, is not yet fully understood. Many of these substances fortify the effects of herbs, and research may soon shed light on this lesser-known aspect of traditional Indian medicine. The potential of these ancient treatments, which have been used for centuries to address diseases and promote rejuvenation, remains largely untapped and offers promising avenues for discovering new, safe therapeutic agents.