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Article ID: CBB217517057

Indigenous knowledge on ancient Indian alchemical alloying (2021)

N. Anantha Krishna (Author)
Mishra, Debi Prasad (Author)
Reddy, Y. V. Mohan (Author)
Reddy, B. Chandra Mohan (Author)

Indian Journal of History of Science
Volume: 56
Issue: 3
Pages: 195-203
Publication date: 2021
Language: English

URI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s43539-021-00020-2

DOI: 10.1007/s43539-021-00020-2

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In recent times, the metallic drugs synthesized through traditional Indian alchemy processes are gathering much attention owing to their therapeutic nature and physico-chemical properties. The extractive metallurgy and alloy formulation of this tradition have hardly been explored as it involves sturdy pyro-technological treatments to extract the essential medicinal properties of hard substances like minerals, metals and stones. However, through modern characterization tools, it is possible to investigate the submerged sensible patterns, and tap their new dimensions of applicability. In the present work, a critical analysis is attempted to study the materials and pyro-technological treatments followed in alloying process of Indian Alchemy. The inner crucible coatings incorporated in the ancient Indian alchemical systems are studied by Thermo Gravimetric Analysis (TGA). It is found that the tradition of using materials like Borax, ghee etc., traces back to Indian philosophies of 600 BCE. Also, it is believed that they used to extract active principles from ores, minimizing their metallic dosages and without alteration in their potency for treatment. The alloys synthesized and characterized involve Au, Ag, Cu, Zn and other minerals like śilājit and svarṇamākṣika (Chalcopyrites).

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