A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW ON GANDAK

Gandak (Sulphur) is one of the most important mineral drugs used in Rasa Shastra and Ayurveda. It is widely employed in various formulations such as Rasayana, Vajikarana, and Kushtaghna preparations due to its antimicrobial, rejuvenating, and detoxifying properties. The process of Shodhana (purification) of Gandak is crucial as it eliminates physical and chemical impurities and enhances its therapeutic efficacy. Classical texts describe several methods for Gandak Shodhana using media such as cow’s ghee, milk, and decoctions of herbal drugs. This paper reviews the classical references, modern chemical understanding, pharmaceutical significance, and therapeutic applications of Gandak.