The Positive Sciences of the Ancient Hindus c4.s2.12

c4.s2.12

Of these Earth substances some were known to be compounds, *e.g.* the chemical salts of the metals, collyrium, etc. Susruta describes the preparation of the metallic salts. The leaves of the metals were pasted over with the salts, and then roasted (अयस्कृति, Chikitsásthána, Chap. X.). These metallic salts are therefore mono-Bhautic Earth compounds. Susruta also gives the preparation of mild and caustic alkalis (Sútrasthána, Chap. XI.).