History of Technology in India, Vol. I: From Antiquity to c. 1200 A.D. v1.c18.s3.t1: Mercury Compounds

History of Technology in India, Vol. I: From Antiquity to c. 1200 A.D. v1.c18.s3.t1

Language: English

Mercury Compounds

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It is evident from the study of Aṣṭāṅga Hṛdaya that in this period (7th century A.D.) the mercurial compounds have found place in the therapeutics for both internal and external uses.

1. Śilājatvadi rasāyana (Ast Hr. Utt. 39/161) is a compound of mercury, iron and a few other minerals indicated for internal use for obtaining rasāyana effect and to provide nourishment to the weak body tissues.

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2. Mañjiṣṭhādi taila (Aṣṭ. Hṛ. Utt. 32/31) is again a mercury compound advised for internal use in cases of Nīlaka and Vyanga of the diseases of face. In addition to mercury it contains Red Ochre, Realgar, Orpiment and a few herbal drugs.

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Mercurial Compounds for External Use

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1. Kālīyākādi lepa (Aṣṭ. Hṛ. Utt. 25/61) is a compound of mercury used as paste for applying externally on skin. It is also known as Savarnakara lepa and recommended for making color of the skin of affected part similar to the healthy skin. In this compound the term ‘Rasottam’ is used for denoting mercury.

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2. Nayanāmṛtāñjana (Aṣṭ. Hṛ. Utt. 13/36) is also a compound of mercury and lead and recommended for using as Añjana (Collyrium) in the Timira roga of eyes.

Linked texts (1)

Aṣṭāṅgahṛdayasaṃhitā — Vāgbhaṭa, Sanskrit