CONCEPT OF SHODHANA IN AYURVEDIC PHARMACEUTICS: A REVIEW

Abstract

Rasaushadhis (herbomineral preparations) are a treasure in Ayurveda. They assure fast recovery of diseases as compared with plant-based medicine. These medicines require lengthy processing before conversion into admissible forms. The processes like Shodhana (purification), Marana (incineration), Amrutikarana (nectarization), Bhasmikarana, Satwapatana etc., are adopted to achieve this. Before the metals and minerals are used for therapeutic benefit, it is necessary to eliminate all the physical, chemical, and toxic impurities. Shodhana is the first and most crucial procedure adopted to achieve this. References from Rasashastra textbooks like Rasa Ratna Samuchaya (RRS), Rasa Tarangini (RT), and Ayurveda prakasha (AP) are reviewed and incorporated in this article. Various methods like Nirvapa, Swedana, Pachana, Bhavana, Dhalana, Nimajjana, etc., are adopted for shodhana. These methods are done with the help of instruments like Dolayantra, Swedani Yantra, Lohadarvi (iron spoon), Vanka Nala etc. Various media like Kanji, Takra, Aranala, Gomutra etc., are used depending on the nature of the materials. Shodhana removes the physical and chemical impurities and potentiates the drug's efficacy, which, in turn, reduces the side effect of the drug. Shodhana also impregnates organic materials and their properties into inorganic drugs to facilitate their utilization by the body.