Abstract

Dr. Shikha Sharma*, Dr. Anjali and Dr. Tanika

ABSTRACT

Ayurveda, the first medical science of the world emphasizes on maintaining equilibrium of physical, physiological, psychological, spiritual, and social health in a comprehensive way. The concepts and approaches of Ayurveda are unique and provide a health promotive, disease preventive and curative guidelines. The science utilizes naturally occurring animal sources, plants, metals and minerals in a systematic way to maintain the health. Use of metals and minerals in Ayurvedic drugs remains an unique identity for Ayurveda and at the same time became controversial issue for the followers of western medicine. However since time immemorial metals and minerals are being used in Ayurvedic medicine without causing any harm to the human body. The art of use of metals and minerals in different formulations is familiar as 'Rasashastra'. Though, in the medieval period, methods of preparation of metal and mineral drugs were refined to such an extent that it became an independent science; roots of this science were deeply buried in treatises like 'Caraka Samhita' and 'Susruta Samhita'.