History of Chemistry in Ancient and Medieval India, Incorporating the History of Hindu Chemistry by Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray c15.100
History of Chemistry in Ancient and Medieval India, Incorporating the History of Hindu Chemistry by Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray c15.100
- Language
- English
c15.100
According to Charaka medicines are classified under two main heads : one increases the strength and vitality of people, already healthy (*vital elixir*), the other cures diseases (cf. *ayushyani* and *bhaishajyani* of Atharvaveda). The former, which promotes longevity, retentive memory, health, vitality, etc., is called *Rasayana*, and may, therefore, be regarded as a part of alchemy.