Raspaddhati Tatha Loh Sarvasvam

This document is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Rasapaddhati Tatha Loh Sarvasvam," authored by Bindu Vaidya, Shreesureshwar, and Yadav Sharma, and published by Jawaji Trikamji Acharya. The text is presented in Sanskrit and covers various aspects of Ayurvedic medicine, particularly focusing on the processing of mercury (rasa) and metals (loha).

Key Features and Content:

• Two Major Works Combined: The book comprises two distinct but related Ayurvedic texts:

  • Rasapaddhati (रसपद्धति) by Bindu Vaidya, with a commentary by Mahadeva.
  • Lohasarasvam (लोहसर्वस्वम्) by Shreesureshwar.

• Publisher and Editor: The compilation, correction, and publication were done by Acharya Yadav Sharma, son of Jivaji Trikamji Acharya. The publication year is V.S. 1981 (1925 AD).

• Content of Rasapaddhati:

  • Mercury Processing (Rasapaddhati): The text details various methods for purifying and processing mercury, including "Samskaras" (transformations/purifications) like Swedana (steaming), Mardana (grinding), Murchhana (incapacitation), Pátana (distillation), Bodhana (awakening), Niyamana (regulation), and Deepana (kindling).
  • Minerals and Metals: It provides information on the identification, purification, incineration (Bhasma), and application of various minerals and metals like cinnabar (Hingula), iron (Loha), copper (Tamra), lead (Naga), tin (Vanga), zinc (Vanga), mica (Abhraka), and gemstones (Ratna).
  • Formulations: A significant portion is dedicated to specific medicinal formulations (Yogas) for various ailments, including fevers (Jvara), cough (Kasa), respiratory issues (Shvasa), abdominal disorders (Udara), skin diseases (Kushtha), and other conditions.
  • Gemology: The text delves into the properties, identification, and use of various gemstones and their medicinal applications, particularly in jewelry and astrological remedies.
  • Commentary: The inclusion of Mahadeva's commentary enhances the understanding of the original text by providing explanations, elaborations, and sometimes additional information from other sources.

• Content of Lohasarasvam:

  • Focus on Metals: This part of the book specifically focuses on iron (Loha) and its various types and preparations.
  • Purification and Incineration: It details the methods for purifying and creating incinerated preparations (Bhasma) of different metals like gold (Suvarna), iron (Loha), copper (Tamra), and mica (Abhraka).
  • Metal Formulations: Numerous formulations utilizing metals are described, with their specific applications for various diseases.
  • Detailed Classification: The text provides a detailed classification of iron based on its properties and origin, along with their respective medicinal uses.

• Editorial Efforts: The introduction (Nivedanam) highlights that the text was compiled and researched using three rare manuscripts, acknowledging their imperfections and inviting correction from scholars. The Lohasarasvam was also found and incorporated during the research.

• Structure: The book includes detailed indices (Vishayanukramanika) for both Rasapaddhati and Lohasarasvam, listing the topics covered and their corresponding page numbers. This facilitates easy navigation through the extensive content.

• Printing and Publishing: The book was printed at the "Nirnaya-Sagar" Press and published by Vaidya Jadavji Trikamji Acharya in Bombay.

Overall Significance:

"Rasapaddhati Tatha Loh Sarvasvam" is a valuable compilation for scholars and practitioners of Ayurveda. It offers a deep dive into the sophisticated alchemical and medicinal practices prevalent in traditional Indian medicine, particularly concerning the potent use of mercury and metals. The combination of the original texts with extensive indices and a commentary makes it a rich resource for understanding these complex therapeutic approaches.