Swarna makshika (chalcopyrite) bhasma (SMB) has been used for different therapeutic purposes since long in Ayurveda. The present study is conducted to evaluate the effect of conventionally prepared SMB on different bio-chemical parameters in experimental animals, for providing scientific data base for its logical use in clinical practice. The genuine SMB was prepared by following classical techniques of shodhana and marana most commonly used by different Ayurvedic drug manufacturers. Shodhana was done by roasting raw swarna makshika with lemon juice for three days and marana was performed by 11 putas. The experimental animals (rats) were divided into two groups. SMB mixed with diluted honey was administered orally in therapeutic dose to Group SMB and diluted honey only was administered to vehicle control Group, for 30 days. The blood samples were collected twice, after 15 days and after 30 days of drug administration and different biochemical investigations were done. Biochemical parameters were chosen based on references from Ayurvedic classics and contemporary medicine. It was observed that Hb% was found significantly increased and LDL and VLDL were found significantly decreased in Group SMB when compared with vehicle control group. This experimental data will help the clinician for the logical use of SMB in different disease conditions with findings like low Hb% and high LDL, VLDL levels.

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Gandhak has been used as a potent medicine in Ayurvedic system of treatment for various kinds of skin manifestations of different fungal as well as bacterial origin. This miraculous medicines is used both internally or/and tropically, in different dosage form as suitable for the patient as well as diseases. In the current scientific work, effect of Gandhak in taila form is assessed for antimicrobial effect on Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans, in, in-vitro study. In the culture medium, growth of strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans such as Staphylococcus aureus [ATCC6538], and Escherichia coli [ATCC8739] and Candida albicans [ATCC1023] as well as in broth nutrient are found negative when inoculated with Gandhak taila.

Historical studies of Rasa shastra reveal the use of metals and minerals, both for alchemical and therapeutical purposes in ancient past. But, gradually the alchemical use of the subject, declines and the therapeutical use takes over. Rasamritam is the latest doctrine in the field of Rasa shastra which compiles the extract of the older books and adopted some new and contemporary concepts. The practical aspects of this text influence both the academicians as well as physicians in large extent. Keeping the wealthier, timely concept of this text in mind, we are trying to review and analyze it critically for the benefit of researchers and practitioners and hope the idea will be fruitful.

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