Introduction to Ayurvedic Formulations: Exploring the Classical Concepts with Modern Science

Abstract

In Ayurveda, any substance is regarded as a potential source of medicine. Ayurvedic compound formulations are mainly originated from plants (Kasthausadhi) and metals and minerals (Rasausadhi). In Ayurveda, impurified states of mercury, gold, silver, copper, iron, and sulfur are used to convert to Bhasma form. However, the use of metals is regarded as toxic in modern medicine. Interestingly, an ancient knowledge system has utilized the herbal qualities of metals by developing various formulations via chemical and physical modifications. Different manufacturing processes have been employed to ascertain different herbal constituents. In Ayurveda, to assess the quality of the final drugs, subjective parameters are used, while in modern medicine, multiple analytical and advanced biotechniques are employed. The Ayurveda system poses different scales and parameters and can compare those with present scientific scales rapidly. In-depth scientific studies may be required to ascertain the essence of Ayurveda concepts to make them more applicable to modern medicine.