Pharmaceutical Standardization and Comparative Analysis of Gandhaka Shodhana Methods as Per Rasatarangini

Abstract

Gandhaka (Sulphur) is a significant mineral drug extensively used in Rasashastra for its therapeutic applications. However, raw Gandhaka (Ashuddha Gandhaka) often contains impurities such as clay, sand, visha (Haratala, and Manahshila), necessitating purification (Shodhana) prior to medicinal use. Classical Ayurvedic texts, including Rasatarangini, recommend different media for the Shodhana process. This study aims to compare three traditional media—Godugdha (cow’s milk), Bhringraja Swarasa (Eclipta alba juice), and Churnodaka (lime water)—to determine their efficacy in purifying Gandhaka. Materials and Methods: Pharmaceutical processing was carried out using the traditional seven-stage Shodhana procedure. Each medium was evaluated for its ability to remove physical and chemical impurities, and comparative weight loss was documented. Organoleptic properties and physico-chemical analyses, including sulphur content (gravimetric method) and heavy metal analysis (with a focus on arsenic), were performed as per standards outlined in the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API). Results: Godugdha Shodhana resulted in highest sulphur content (99.47% w/w) and lowest arsenic content (2.03 ppm) among the three. Bhringraja Swarasa Shodhana achieved 98.66% w/w sulphur purity and 2.10 ppm arsenic. Churnodaka Shodhana was least effective, yielding 96.20% w/w sulphur and 2.24 ppm arsenic, though it showed practical feasibility due to easy preparation. Conclusion: The study concludes that Godugdha is the most effective and reliable medium for Gandhaka Shodhana, offering superior purification outcomes with significant reduction in arsenic content. Bhringraja Swarasa is effective but limited by seasonal availability, while Churnodaka, although accessible and cost-effective, shows lower purification efficacy. These findings support the classical view that the choice of media in Rasa Shastra profoundly influences drug quality and safety. Further clinical evaluation is recommended to substantiate these in vitro results.