A REVIEW ON RASADRAVYA MENTIONED IN CHARAKA SAMHITA AND THEIR THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS

The science of Rasa Shastra holds a significant place in Ayurveda, focusing on the use of metals, minerals, and allied substances for therapeutic purposes. Though systematically developed in later medieval texts, its roots are evident even in the Charaka Samhita, one of the earliest Ayurvedic compendia. This review aims to identify, compile, and analyze the references of Rasadravya described in Charaka Samhita and evaluate their role in different formulations (Kalpas). The textual study reveals the use of Dravyas such as Swarna, Rajata, Tamra, Loha, Manahshila, Haratala, Gairika, Kasis, Gandhaka, Shilajatu, Swarnamakshika etc., across contexts including Kushtha, Pandu, Gulma, Jwara, Vishachikitsa, Netra Roga, and Rasayana. Their therapeutic roles-Krimighna, Kushthaghna, Kandughna, Vishaghna, Rasayana, Chakshushya - are explained in both preventive and curative domains. The present review highlights the foundational role of Charaka Samhita in linking Rasa Dravya to Ayurveda pharmaceutics and its relevance to contemporary integrative medicine.