An Overview of Rasa Chandamshu / Rasa Ratna Sangraha: A 20th Century Contribution in Rasashastra

Abstract

Rasa Chandamshu 20th century C.E. alchemical treatise authored by Shri Datta Vaidya is a useful compilation book related to preparation of medicines of mineral and metallic origin. The present work is an attempt to study and summarize the important comprehensive and specific points mentioned in Rasa Chandamshu and to elaborate the contribution of Rasa Chandamshu.This text throws light on the state of Indian expertise in the field of alchemy regarding the extraction purification conversion of metals minerals into therapeutically suitable forms various instruments developed for alchemical purposes and treatment of numerous diseases by using herbo-mineral preparations. The uses of metals and minerals in treating nearly about 87 diseases are explained in this text with their pathophysiology symptomatology and therapeutics. This book gives detailed description of about 700 formulations.Practical aspect dealt regarding the processing of various Rasaushadhi makes the text unique in its presentation and utility. Classifications of minerals and metals description of some new instruments are the key features of Rasa Chandamshu.