Geriatrics & Rejuvenation
Question #5639
135 days ago
83

Mercury In Ayurveda - #5639

Anonymously

I’ve recently started reading about Rasashastra, and I was surprised to learn how mercury in Ayurveda is used in some formulations. Isn’t mercury toxic? How is it safe to include mercury in Ayurveda without causing harm? I’ve read about preparations like Kajjali, where mercury is purified and combined with other substances. What are the benefits of using mercury in Ayurveda, and are these treatments still common today? Is there a risk of side effects, or is the purification process enough to make it safe? I’d appreciate it if someone could share details on how mercury in Ayurveda is used for treatments and whether it’s something to be cautious about.

Mercury in ayurveda
Rasashastra
Ayurvedic metals
Detoxified mercury
Traditional medicine safety.
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Doctors’ responses

Mercury, used in Ayurveda through the practice of Rasashastra, is indeed toxic in its raw form. However, in Ayurvedic treatments, mercury is carefully purified through a multi-step process, such as shodhana, to eliminate harmful properties and make it safe for therapeutic use. One common preparation is Kajjali, where mercury is combined with sulfur and other substances to create a medicinal compound believed to enhance potency and effectiveness. These mercury-based formulations are used for a variety of conditions, including detoxification, rejuvenation, and even chronic illnesses. The purification process is crucial in making mercury safe, but there are still risks if not prepared properly, and it's important to consult an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner when using such treatments. While these remedies are still practiced, they are less common today, and caution should be exercised due to the potential for side effects if not administered correctly. Always seek professional guidance before using any mercury-based Ayurvedic treatments.
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Dr. Harsha Joy
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135 days ago
4.82
Mercury, or parada, has been used in Ayurvedic Rasashastra (the science of alchemy) for centuries, particularly in the preparation of certain medicinal formulations like Kajjali and Rasa Kalpana. These formulations involve the purification of mercury through a meticulous process called shodhana, which involves heating, grinding, and combining it with specific herbs, minerals, and other substances. This process is believed to render the mercury non-toxic, transforming it into a substance that is considered beneficial in certain therapeutic contexts. The use of mercury in Ayurveda is primarily to enhance the potency of medicines and target specific health conditions, such as detoxification, rejuvenation, and improving vitality. Mercury, when properly purified and processed, is thought to help balance the doshas, particularly Pitta, and is believed to have powerful healing effects on a cellular level. In formulations like Kajjali, the mercury is combined with sulfur and other elements to create a compound that is considered safe and effective for therapeutic use. However, this practice is not without its risks. If improperly prepared or used in excessive amounts, mercury can be toxic and cause serious health issues, such as mercury poisoning. This is why it’s critical that mercury-based Ayurvedic treatments be administered by trained practitioners who are well-versed in the ancient alchemical methods of purification and preparation. When used correctly, side effects are rare, but there is always an inherent risk if the treatment is not tailored to an individual’s needs. Today, while Rasashastra is still practiced, the use of mercury in Ayurveda is generally approached with caution, and many practitioners may choose to focus on safer herbal and mineral-based treatments. Modern Ayurvedic medicine has evolved, and some formulations now emphasize herbal remedies and safer alternatives, with fewer mercury-based preparations being used. If you’re considering such treatments, it’s essential to consult with an experienced Ayurvedic doctor who is familiar with the intricacies of Rasashastra and who can guide you on whether this form of treatment is suitable for you.

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