Critical Analysis of Rasachandamshu: A Compilation of Rasa Drugs for Diverse Disease Conditions

A bstract Sārtha Rasachandamśu or Rasaratnasaṅgraha is a compilation of Rasa texts (textbooks related to the science of metals and minerals) authored by Vaidya Datto Ballal Borkar. This book is listed among the Ayurvedic texts included in the first schedule of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. Unlike earlier Rasa texts, which primarily focused on metallurgy and the theoretical aspects of Rasa medicine, the author has skillfully addressed the need for a balanced presentation of both theoretical concepts and practical applications of Rasa drugs in Rasachandamśu . A critical analysis of this text reveals that it is divided into two key sections. The Pūrvakhaṇḍa (first section) elaborates on various Rasa medicines (single drugs or formulations containing processed metals and minerals) in detail, whereas the Uttarakhaṇḍa (second section) focuses on Rasa formulations for specific disease conditions. The text is structured as a continuous narrative without formal chapter divisions. It highlights several significant medicinal formulations containing Rasa drugs as primary ingredients and also includes references to drugs used in Pañcakarma therapy (five major treatment procedures of Ayurveda). This comprehensive compilation by Vaidya Datto Ballal Borkar serves as a valuable resource for students and practitioners of Rasaśāstra (a branch of Ayurveda dealing with the use of processed metals and minerals in Ayurveda), providing insights into both the theory and practical applications of Rasa medicines.