History of Technology in India, Vol. I: From Antiquity to c. 1200 A.D. v1.c18.s1.t4.2

v1.c18.s1.t4.2

1. In Caraka Saṃhitā (CS. Ci. 1/3/48-65) a detailed description of Śilājatu (a famous mineral Bituman) obtained from Himalayan mountains as an exudate is found mentioned which consists of its origin, varieties and properties. It is also mentioned in the same context that the varieties of Śilājatu are based on its metallic contents i.e. suvarṇa, raupya, tāmra and loha śilājatu.