A Bird’s Eye View on Rasaoushadhis in Panchakarma

Abstract

Panchakarma, an inevitable part of Ayurveda, is a combination of 5 Shodhana procedures, namely Vamana,  Virechana, Vasthi, Nasya, and Rakthamoksha. In addition to the above-mentioned Pradhana Karmas, Poorva Karmas  such as Snehana and Swedana and Upakarmas such as Kavala, Pratisarana, and Dhoomapana are also a part of  Panchakarma. These Shodhana procedures eliminate toxins in the body and make three doshas in equilibrium.  Usually, Sthavara and Jangama Dravyas are utilized for Panchakarma procedures. In the current scenario, the  utility and application of Panchakarma therapies are getting importance around the globe. There is a wide range of  formulations explained in Ayurvedic classics for conducting Panchakarma therapies, but it is observable and evident  that few formulations for Panchakarma contain Rasaoushadhis. These are not much explained in Brihathtrayees.  However, the Ayurveda classics having focus to Rasa Shastra such as Rasaratnasamucchaya, Rasatarangini,  Rasendrachoodamani, and Ayurveda Prakasha explain the inclusion of Rasoushadhis in Panchakarma formulations.  Rasoushadhis are a group of medicines having metals and minerals, which are considered to be highly potent and  fast acting. Sphatika, Anjana, Parada, Gandhaka, Thutta, Shilajathu, Loha, Kasisa, and Tankanaetcare are some of  the examples having classical references in Panchakarma procedures. So here, an attempt is made to compile and  evaluate some of the formulations with Rasoushadhis that are used in various Panchakarma procedures. Mode of  action can also be explained in terms of their Rasapanchaka, Veerya, Dosha Karma, and other Karmas.