Rasashastra: Classical Foundations, Pharmaceutical Processing, Standardization and Contemporary Scientific Perspectives — A Review

Abstract

Rasashastra is a specialized branch of Ayurveda concerned with the pharmaceutical processing and therapeutic utilization of metals, minerals, gemstones and other inorganic substances. Classical Rasashastra developed systematic procedures such as Shodhana, Bhavana, Mardana, Jarana, Marana, Amritikarana and Satvapatana to transform raw materials into therapeutically suitable preparations. Bhasma, Kupipakwa Rasayana, Parpati, Pottali and various mineral-herbal formulations represent important dosage forms described in this discipline. In the contemporary era, the quality, reproducibility and safety of Rasashastra preparations require integration of classical pharmaceutical principles with modern analytical science. Techniques such as X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, particle-size analysis, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and thermal analysis can provide valuable information regarding phase composition, elemental profile, morphology, particle characteristics and thermal behaviour. Recent research indicates that pharmaceutical processing can produce substantial physicochemical changes in metallic and mineral materials. However, variations in raw materials, processing conditions and analytical methodology may lead to differences between batches and studies. Therefore, standardization should incorporate classical quality-control tests, validated physicochemical parameters, elemental characterization, process control, stability testing and appropriate safety evaluation. This review summarizes the classical foundations of Rasashastra, major pharmaceutical procedures, important dosage forms, modern approaches to standardization, safety considerations and future research opportunities.