Shat Kriya Kala (Six Stages Of Disease Formation)

Abstract

The concept of kriya kala has been widely described in two separate entities as ritu kriya kala (seasonal) and vyadhi kriya kala (disease). Under ritu kriya kala normal physiological variations of dosha in each season has been discussed and accordingly certain measures are described in ritucharya to overcome the adverse effects. Vyadhi kriya kala described by Sushruta gives an idea about the consecutive stages of the disease and accordingly preventive measures were described to overcome complications. If accumulated dosha has been eliminated it won't manifest successive stages of kriya kala. If not eliminated, it passes to the next stage. As the disease advances to later stages it becomes stronger and stronger for management. So today we will read about shat kriya kala in brief in this article.

Introduction

It is the process of understanding the pathogenesis of disease in consecutive stages. Mainly six stages were described for the successive manifestation of the disease that is:

1. Accumulation:- Sanchaya
2. Aggravation:- Prakopa
3. Dissemination:- Prasara
4. Relocation:- Sthana samsraya
5. Manifestation:- Vyaktavastha
6. Disruption:- Bhedavastha

Sanchaya (Accumulation)

संहतिरूपा वृद्धिश्चय:।

Reference - (S.Su 21/18)

According to the above shloka:- Gradual accumulation of dosha in respective seats. It is the first stage of kriya kala. Accumulated dosha manifests certain symptoms are as follows:-

Vata Sanchaya Lakshana

• Stiffness and fullness in abdomen

Pitta Sanchaya Lakshana

• Yellowishness of body parts
• Mild increase in body temperature

Kapha Sanchaya Lakshana

• Heaviness in whole body
• Lassitude

Person develops aversion towards the causative factors which are responsible for accumulation of dosha.

Prakopa (Aggravation)

विलयन रूपा वृद्धि: प्रकोप:।

Reference - (S.Su 21/18)

According to the above shloka:- Accumulated dosha moving to other sites other than its main site. It is the second stage of kriya kala and also the second stage for preventive measures.

Difference Between The Prakopa & Prasara

After heating thick ghee (solid) it melts, it is the Prakopa stage. On further heating of melted ghee produces frothing and reaches the top of the heating utensil or comes out of the utensil is called prasara stage.

The following symptomatology manifest in Prakopa stage as per the involvement of dosha are as follows:-

Vata Prakopa Lakshana

Pain and movement of vata in maha srotas (large channels)

Pitta Prakopa Lakshana

• Sour eructations
• Burning sensation all over the body
• Excessive thirst

Kapha Prakopa Lakshana

• A version of food
• Excessive salivation in mouth

Prasara (Dissemination)

Overflow of dosha from their respective seats to other places takes place like fermented materials come out after keeping a mixture of yeast, water and flour in a vessel overnight. Main factor for movement is vayu (air) because of being mobile even though capricious. It is predominant in rajas which is the initiator of all happenings. As a large accumulation of water in excess breaks the barrier and mixes other pools of water and moves haphazardly in various directions. In the same way dosha also moves to different places with the help of vayu (air) either alone or in combinations are as follows and it is of 15 types.

1. Vata prasara
2. Pitta prasara
3. Kapha prasara
4. Rakta prasara
5. Vata pitta prasara
6. Vata kapha prasara
7. Pitta kapha prasara
8. Vata rakta prasara
9. Pitta rakta prasara
10. Kapha rakta prasara
11. Vata pitta rakta prasara
12. Vata kapha rakta prasara
13. Pitta kapha rakta prasara
14. Vata pitta kapha prasara
15. Vata pitta kapha rakta prasara

Aggravated dosha moves all over the body and manifests diseases whatever they strike. that is the whole body, half portion of the body, part of the body like clouds raining in the sky. If the aggravation of dosha is mild it may not produce diseases because it stays in hidden channels and produces diseases if preventive measures are not undertaken and after consuming causative factors in excess. Aggravated dosha spreads to different places and produces following symptomatology are as follows:-

Vata Prasara Lakshana

• Vata moves to different places other than its own seats
• Painful sensation in maha srotas (large channels)

Pitta Prasara Lakshana

• Localized burning sensation
• Sucking type of pain
• Burning sensation all over the body
• Emitting smoke from mouth

Kapha Prasara Lakshana

• Anorexia
• Indigestion
• Lassitude
• Vomiting

Sthana Samsraya (Relocation)

Agitated dosha spreads to different places and gets stuck somewhere because of obstruction in srotas due to abnormality in srotas is called sthana samsaraya. Agitated and disturbed dosha moves all over the body and produces diseases when a favorable environment was developed for dosha-dushya sammurchana due to unhealthiness of srotas in a particular site resulting in manifestation of diseases.

Udara

Dosha-dushya sammurchana in udara manifests following diseases:-

• Gulma (Tumor)
• Vidradhi (Abscess)
• Udara roga (Abdominal diseases)
• Agni vikara (Digestive fire related disorder)
• Vibandha (Constipation)
• Anaha (Flatulence)
• Visuchika (Cholera)
• Atisara (Diarrhea)
• Pravahika (Dysentery)
• Vilambika (Indigestion) etc.

Bastigata

When there is a dosha-dushya sammurchana in basti region produces following diseases:-

• Prameha (Diabetes)
• Ashmari (Renal stone)
• Mutraghata (Retention of urine)
• Mutra dosha (Urine related diseases) etc.

Medhragata

Dosha-dushya sammurchana in medhra pradesa manifests following diseases:-

• Niruddha Prakasa (Phimosis)
• Upadamsa (Sexually transmitted diseases)

Gudagata

Dosha-dushya sammurchana in guda region manifests following diseases:-

• Bhagandara (Fistula-in-ano)
• Arsa (Haemorrhoids)

Vrsanagata

Vriddhi manifests

Urdhvajatrugata

Manifest urdhvajatru gata vikara

Tvak, Mamsa And Sonitagata

त्वक शब्देनात्र रसो विवक्षित:। (Dalhana)

According to the above sholaka:- Rasa is considered in place of tvak (skin) because any changes happening in rasa are expressed in skin. Diseases are:- Ksudraroga (minor diseases), Kustha (skin diseases), Visarpa (Herpes zoster) etc.

Medagata:- Disease are:- Granthi (Cyst), Apachi (Glandular swelling), Arbuda (Tumor), Galaganda (Goiter), Alaji (Eye disorder) etc.

Asthigata:- Diseases are:- Asthi vidradi (overgrowth of bones and extra teeth)

Padagata:- Disease are:- Shlipada (Elephantiasis), Vatasonita (Gout), Vatakantaka (Plantar fasciitis) etc.

Sarvangagata:- Diseases are:- Jvara (Fever), Vatavyadhi (vata related disorders), Prameha (Diabetes), Pandu roga (Anemia), Sosha (Tissue depletion) etc.

In this particular stage of kriya kala premonitory signs and symptoms of the diseases are seen. It is the fourth stage of kriya kala and treatment must be employed to correct dosha, dushya or both.

Vyaktavastha (Manifestation)

व्यधि: प्रव्यक्तं रूपं व्यक्ति:।

Reference - (S.Su 21/34)

According to the above shloka:- Appearance of clear cut symptoms of the disease.

Cardinal signs and symptoms of the diseases are expressed in this stage. For example:-

• Increased temperature is observed in jvara (fever)
• Excessive passing of watery stools is seen in atisara (diarrhea)
• Abnormal enlargement of abdomen is observed in udara roga (abdominal diseases)

Bhedavastha (Disruption)

In case of varnas (wound/ulcer) they burst and become ulcers. Certain diseases attain chronicity like jirna jvara (chronic fever), pravrddha amavata (rheumatoid arthritis) etc. In this stage specific signs and symptoms of the diseases manifests like vataja jvara lakshana, pittaja jvara lakshana etc. and also it refers to chronicity of the diseases. This particular stage of manifestation is very difficult to cure and if not treated at the earliest disease may become incurable.

Ritu Kriya Kala

Seasonal variation of dosha occurs in respective seasons like accumulation of dosha, agitation of dosha and alleviation of dosha takes place in subsequent ritus (seasons).

Chaya (Accumulation Of Doshas)

Increase of dosha in its own place and manifest dislike for things which are responsible for accumulation and like the opposite qualities of substances.

Kopa (Agitation Of Dosha)

Spreading of dosha to different places manifests symptoms of aggravated dosha like vata prakopa lakshana, pitta prakopa lakshana and kapha prakopa lakshana. Patients may feel ill health and disease may manifest if not managed properly with preventive measures. In this particular stage initially dosha variation symptoms arise, if not taken care at this stage it manifests premonitory signs and symptoms of the disease or even attain chronicity.

Prasama Or Sama (Alleviation Of Dosha)

स्वस्थानस्तस्य समता विकारासम्भव: शम:।

Reference - (A.Hr.Su 12/23)

Dosha attains normalcy in their respective seats and disease will not manifest.

Chaya, prakopa and prashama of vata dosha occurs in three seasons commencing with grisma (summer):-

• Chaya - grisma (summer)
• Prakopa - varsa (rainy)
• Prasama - sarad (autumn)

In case of pitta it commences with varsa (rainy):-

• Chaya - varsa (rainy)
• Prakopa - sarad (autumn)
• Prasama - hemant (pre winter)

For kapha it starts with sisira (winter):-

• Chaya - sisira (winter)
• Prakopa - vasant (spring)
• Prasama - grisma (summer)

Vata increases during grisma (summer) ritu due to usage of things possessing qualities such as laghu (light), ruksa (dry) etc. in the bodies of persons possessing such qualities but it does not undergo prakopa due to the presence of heat in abundance. Pitta undergo chaya in varsa (rainy) ritu due to production of amla vipaka (sour metabolic property) of water and foods but do not undergo prakopa due to coldness. Kapha dosha accumulates in excess in sisira (winter) ritu due to the consumption of foods and drinks which are snigdha (oily) and sita (cold) in nature and body of person of similar nature and it does not become prakopa due to solidification.

Conclusion

In this article we read about the six stages of disease formation that tells about the consecutive stages of disease and preventive measures for other complications. Early detection of disease helps to manage the disease successfully without much discomfort in planning the treatment. Chaya, prakopa, and prasama are the normal physiological effects on the dosha due to seasons, foods, nature etc. and there may not be chaya, prakopa and prasama may not occur in respective seasons. In case of any query kindly visit

Asbestos And Its Harmful Effects On Health, How It Causes Cancer?

ABSTRACT

Cancer is a condition in which there is an uncontrolled growth of body cells that spreads to the various body parts. It can start anywhere in the body and form trillions of cells. Generally the human cells multiply and grow, forming new cells that are much needed for the growth of the body. And in the normal process when the cells are damaged they die and new cells accumulate their place. Sometimes this order breaks down and the cells start growing in abnormal and uncontrolled ways. These abnormally growing cells start making tumors that can be cancerous as well as non-cancerous. The cancerous one has the ability to spread all over the body by the process of Metastasis. The benign or non-cancerous ones do not spread or invade into the nearby tissues. Sometimes these benign tumors can also cause serious complications especially when situated into such sites like in the brain. In the following article we are going to discuss one such particle that causes cancer which is asbestos, and also we will discuss the management of asbestos causing cancer in Ayurveda.

WHAT IS ASBESTOS?

Asbestos refers to a group of fibrous minerals which is resistant to any kind of corrosion or heat. These properties make it useful for various purposes in a commercial department. On the other hand this material is highly toxic and once it gets ingested, will remain stuck in the body permanently. Although this material is used in making various substances to make them stronger which includes cloths, cement, paper, plastic and some other materials. Now let us discuss what are diseases related to Asbestos exposure, how it leads to Cancer and how to protect yourself from cancer. So let us discuss below about this cancer causing dangerous material.

SOME FACTS ABOUT ASBESTOS

Following are some of the facts about Asbestos that one must know: 

• The Asbestos Exposure must occur in occupational settings as well as in homes. 
• The primary cause of Mesothelioma is considered as Asbestos Exposure, this is the cancer of the lungs and abdominal lining.
• There are other various kinds of Cancer that may occur due to Asbestos Exposure which includes ovarian, lung and laryngeal cancer. 
• Until the 1980s, thousands of products in the US contained Asbestos.

DISEASES RELATED TO ASBESTOS

Scientific research shows that Asbestos exposure can be linked to various diseases along with Cancer. Following are some of the diseases that can be caused by Asbestos:

• Mesothelioma 
• Lung Cancer
• Ovarian Cancer
• Laryngeal Cancer
• Asbestosis
• Pleural effusion
• Pleuritis
• Pleural plaques
• Diffuse pleural thickening
• COPD

HOW DOES ASBESTOS LEAD TO CANCER?

When a person inhales the fibers of Asbestos he  or she is unable to excrete it outside or to digest it. These fibers remain stuck around the sensitive lung tissues or abdomen tissues. Years and years pass these stuck fibers start causing inflammation and irritation which further damage the DNA and cells. This causes genetic changes, abnormal cell growth and at last cancer. It includes lung cancer and Mesothelioma and leads to half of the cancer deaths due to Occupations.

SYMPTOMS OF ASBESTOS CANCER

If a person experiences these symptoms they should pay attention to it and must have regular screenings. These symptoms include various symptoms.

• Symptoms related to Respiratory System - Coughing, Shortness of breath, chest pain. If a person experienced these symptoms then it might be the symptoms of lung Cancer, pericardial mesothelioma and pleural mesothelioma.
• Symptoms related to Digestive System - Digestion issues, swelling and pain in abdomen, nauseous, altered bowel habits, etc. if a person is facing these symptoms then there must be a chance of stomach cancer, peritoneal mesothelioma, ovarian cancer or colon cancer.
• Symptoms related to Throat - Persistent hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, chronic sore throat, always a feel to clean throat, etc. so if anyone notices these symptoms they will definitely get them diagnosis for pleural mesothelioma and laryngeal cancer.

ASBESTOS EXPOSURE RELATED RISKS

Asbestos exposure even in small amounts is not safe but the worst impact is seen when the concentration is very high. Whenever the exposure occurs more and more Asbestos gets accumulated in the body and by no way we can reverse it back. Once the Asbestos fibers become airborne they get easily inhaled. So it is important not to disturb the product containing asbestos. Especially people who are living by the side where the soil contains Asbestos must have to avoid contact with the soil. Most of the population having Asbestos related diseases are Men in 60s or more than 60s. It happens in old age as Asbestos causes disease by living in the body for decades.

TIPS FOR HANDLING ASBESTOS SAFELY

Following are some of the tips for handling asbestos safely:

• It is necessary to seal off the working area by covering it with plastic sheets.
• Turn off the Air Conditioner and wear a respirator with HEPA filter (High Efficiency Particulate Air).
• Usage of Pump sprayer is necessary to keep the Asbestos material wet by which we can suppress the dust containing Asbestos all the time.
• With wet wipers clean the work area or also you can use a HEPA filter for it.
• Place Asbestos in  labeled bags at a landfill which can accept asbestos.

DIAGNOSIS OF ASBESTOS CANCER

The first step to diagnose Asbestos is to go and talk to your Doctor which is available at Primary Health Care Centre, tell him about Asbestos exposure, your symptoms and the health history. If a Doctor feels you are having symptoms of mesothelioma then he will conduct a proper physical examination and check the unusual signs. For clear diagnosis of this condition following steps can be offered by your Doctor:

• Imaging Tests: These techniques involve X-ray, CT Scan and MRI. 
• Blood tests and Biomarkers: Mesomark, Somamer and Human MPF can be done under this category. 
• Biopsy Procedures: Thoracoscopy, Cytology tests, Mediastinoscopy and laparoscopy is to be done under Biopsy procedures.

Till here we discussed all about Asbestos, how it can accuse Cancer and how that cancer can be diagnosed. Now we will discuss how this cancer can be managed by Ayurvedic remedies. So let’s have a look!!!

AYURVEDIC OVERVIEW OF CANCER

Classical Ayurvedic Texts provide reference to cancer and describe this as a tridoshaj vyadhi. Cancer as per Ayurveda is regarded as Arbuda (Malignant neoplasm)  and Granthi (Benign Neoplasm).  Acharya Sushruta explains 6 types of tumors among which first four are considered as benign tumours and other two are considered as malignant tumors. The six types of tumors are Vataj Granthi, Pittaj Granthi, Kaphaja Granthi, Medas Granthi (affected adipose tissue), Rakta Arbuda (affected blood) and Mamsa Arbuda (affected muscle tissue).

• Vataj Granthi - It is charecterised by sharp pain, large, black and mobile, hard bulge with aggravated vata  dosha.
• Pittaj Granthi - Yellow and red in colour, cause burning sensation, grows quickly and has aggravated pitta dosha.
• Kaphaja Granthi - It has no pain, cold, big hard lump, produces itching and has skin colour due to aggravated kapha dosha.
• Rakta Granthi - In this type of granthi the aggravated vata, pitta and kapha dosha circulates throughout the bloodstream but predominantly the pitta dosha.
• Mamsa Granthi - This type of Granthi is caused by consumption of excessive meat.
• Asthi Granthi - Injuries and fractures in the bones lead to aggravation of vata dosha which further causes Asthi Granthi.
• Sira Granthi - The excessive accumulation of vata dosha causes vitiation in the bodily tissues channels and causes Sira Granthi.
• Vrana Granthi - Excessive intake of vitiated food prevents ulcer from healing and leads to granthi, known as Vrana Granthi.

ANTI-CANCEROUS HERBS

• Garlic - Along with various herbs Garlic also assists in preventing Cancer, especially stomach Cancer. It has wonderful anti-carcinogenic and immune strengthening properties that assist in managing cancer.
• Ginger - There is one another kitchen ingredient that acts as a Cancer weapon. Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, thus fighting against cancer.
• Black Pepper - Black Pepper contains a great substance that is piperine, includes miraculous antioxidant properties, along with other herbs it boosts the anti-cancerous effect.
• Turmeric - Turmeric (Curcuma longa) contains curcumin which is one of the most effective antiinflammatory agents. Cancer cells get nourishment from newly formed blood vessels. Curcumin works against these newly formed blood vessels and prevents the nourishment of the cancer cells, thus preventing cancer.

For alleviating these types of Granthi, Planet Ayurveda provides you with a Crab Care Pack. It includes several herbal remedies that effectively assist in the management of cancer with their effectiveness. Let’s have a look on the remedies by Planet Ayurveda!!

HERBAL REMEDIES FOR CANCER BY PLANET AYURVEDA

Ayurveda is a holistic science which has been serving a population since more than 3000 years. It is one of the oldest Holistic Science in the healing systems. This holistic science is based on a great belief, health and wellness turn on a fine balance between body, mind and spirit. The main goal of Ayurveda is to promote good health and a treatment is there toward various specific health issues. Planet Ayurveda is a company that is working for 20 years on the aim of this holistic science. They formulates their own herbal remedies by strict adherence to Ayurvedic classical texts. There are various supplements produced by Planet Ayurveda that can be used by a healthy person to maintain their health. For the purpose of managing various diseases Planet Ayurveda provides you with a wide range of products. For managing Cancer they provide a Crab Care pack for advance stages, below we are going to discuss this pack and how it is beneficial in the management of Cancer. So let’s have a look!!!!

PRODUCTS LIST

1. Curcumin Capsules
2. Ashwagandha Capsules
3. Chandraprabha Vati
4. Tulsi Capsules
5. Kanchnaar Guggul
6. Guggul Capsules

Crab Care Pack

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

1. Curcumin Capsules

Curcumin Capsules is a single herbal capsule formulation prepared by planet Ayurveda. These capsules consist of standardized extract of herb haridra (Curcuma longa). This herb consists of immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties. It prevents cancer, slows down its spread and also protects the healthy cells from being damaged. It controls the cell's proliferation with the blockage of cell cycle and reduces kapha dosha. Curcumin Capsules also prevent the neovascularization (formation of new blood vessels) that are responsible for initiating the growth of abnormal cells.

Dosage - 2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meals.

2. Ashwagandha Capsules

Ashwagandha Capsules consist of standardized extract of single herb Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). This is one of the capsule formulations prepared by Planet Ayurveda which can be used as a health supplement as well as for managing various kinds of disorders. Ashwagandha herb consists of adaptogenic properties which means it regulates the normal functioning of the body. These capsules also consist of immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties that prevent cancerous growth with its free radicals eliminating properties.

Dosage - 2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meals.

3. Chandraprabha Vati

Chandraprabha Vati is one of the classical Ayurvedic formulations used since ancient times for various disorders. These tablets are prepared by Planet Ayurveda as per strict adherence to classical Ayurvedic texts. These tablets consist of various ingredients like Guggul (Commiphora mukul), haridra (Curcuma longa), giloy (Tinospora cordifolia), etc. These herbs provide immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and adaptogenic properties. It will reduce the size of abnormal cancerous growth as well as prevent further growth of cancerous growths.

Dosage - 2 tablets twice daily with plain water after meals.

4. Tulsi Capsules

Tulsi Capsules are a single herbal capsule formulation that is formulated by Planet Ayurveda with standardized extract of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum). This herb consists of antiviral, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic and various other properties. Tulsi along with kapha pacifying properties and anti-carcinogenic properties assists in reducing cancerous growth size as well as preventing the further growth of cancer cells.

Dosage - 2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meals.

5. Kanchnaar Guggul

Kanchnaar Guggul is one of the classical Ayurvedic formulations used since ancient times for reducing abnormal growths in the body. These tablets consist of various ingredients such as kachnaar (Bauhinia variegata), Guggul (Commiphora mukul), amalaki (Emblica officinalis), haritaki (Terminalia chebula) and various others. It contains properties such as  This remedy is useful in the management of tumors, PCOS, cystic swelling and ulcers. It assists in reducing the size of these growths by drying the excessive kapha dosha in the body.

Dosage - 2 tablets twice daily with plain water after meals.

6. Guggul Capsules

Guggul Capsules is a single ingredient capsule formulation that is prepared by Planet Ayurveda with the standardized extract of Guggul (Commiphora mukul).  These capsules consist of best anti-inflammatory properties and kapha pacifying properties. Thus these capsules are considered as effective in case of eczema, acne, arthritis, psoriasis and abnormal growths. Especially its kapha pacifying properties are best which assists in management of the cancerous growths, thus these capsules are given in case of cancer caused by Asbestos.

Dosage - 2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meals.

CONCLUSION

Asbestos refers to a group of fibrous minerals which is resistant to any kind of corrosion or heat. On the other hand this material is highly toxic and once it gets ingested, will remain stuck in the body permanently. The Asbestos Exposure must occur in occupational settings as well as in homes. The primary cause of Mesothelioma is considered as Asbestos Exposure, this is the cancer of the lungs and abdominal lining. There must be special methods of handling asbestos at occupational working places. For preventing and managing Asbestos Cancer various remedies are provided by Planet Ayurveda. So people working in areas having Asbestos can use these remedies to prevent as well as manage cancer.

Gandhak Rasayan - An Ayurvedic Preparation of Purified Sulfur

WHAT IS SULPHUR

Sulfur is 10th most abundant mineral in the universe and 5th Most common on Earth !!

Plants need fertilizers made from Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium ( NPK) but Sulfuric acid made from Sulfur is the key ingredient in industrial production of these fertilizers. Sulfur is also used up by various agricultural plants and crops.

It is very important essential element for life.

Many Plants consume up to 25 kg of sulfur per hectare of land. Sulfur gets depleted and the soil gets barren due to sulfur depletion in the soil.

Sulfur also facilitates the absorption and uptake of essential fertilizers Nitrogen, Phosphates and Potassium by the plants.

So it's important mineral for growth of plants and natural utilization of essential fertilizers.

Sulfur is a non-metallic chemical element identified by alphabet S. In the periodic table it's 16 and Atomic mass is 32, with 2,8 and 6 electrons in each orbit. It makes H2S ( Hydrogen Sulphide) - Poisonous and inflammable gas. Sulphur makes sulphide compounds with Antimony and Bismuth and is found in Earth as these compounds.

COMMERCIAL USE OF SULFUR IN TODAY'S WORLD!!

Today almost all elemental sulfur is produced from sulfur containing contaminants from natural gas and petroleum.

The greatest commercial use of Sulfur now a days is making up of Sulfuric acid ( H2SO4 ) to make sulfate and phosphate fertilizers.

Sulfur is mainly produced in petroleum rich countries Saudi arabia, Russia, Canada and exported to USA, China, Western Europe and East Asia which are using Sulfur to prepare Sulfuric acid and using it to prepare fertilizers for the crops.

SULPHUR OR SULFUR IN HUMAN BODY

Sulfur is most ignored mineral in our diet. Although many vegetables like Potatoes, beets, Carrots absorb sulfur from the soil but the soil is so depleted that these vegetables are not rich enough in Sulfur.

Many cereal foods which are enriched with Vitamin D, Vitamin C, Vitamin B and Vitamin A, Iron and other minerals, but still they lack sulfur as it's ignored. Moreover as an Ayurvedic doctor, I believe in eating fresh food and vegetables from soil rather than packed in factory as cereals.

Sulphur is main constituent of the Amino Acids Methionine, Cysteine and Cystine and important constitent of vitamins like Biotic and Thiamine. Free radical scavenger Glutathione also contains Sulfur. Glutathione is used as shots to prevent side effects of chemotherapy in cancer. Glutathione is used in many complicated diseases like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis ( Lung failure), AIDS and many others to boost immunity. It's also given to Kidney failure patients to treat anemia by injections. it's also given in male infertility. Above uses are of Glutathione are of modern medical system, but Ayurveda- the ancient health care system uses purified and medicinal Sulfur tablets directly in the above mentioned conditions are s rejuvenator. It is called "Gandhak Rasayan" - Gandhak is sulfur and Rasayan means the one which rejuvenates the body.

ANCIENT ALCHEMY AND SULFUR

Ayurveda is an age old healhcare system of India. Alchemy of Ayurveda is called "Rasa Shastra". It deals in using various metals, minerals, Animal parts and organs to treat various health conditions. The metals used are properly purified, titrated and used in trace dosages to boost immunity, modify immunity, eradicate cancers and clear the body of complicated diseases.

Many people especially modern educated doctors are quiet scared of using metals of Ayurvedic system but they really do not know this science because they have not read about the processes involved in developing the medicines from these metals. I urge all the doctors worldwide to understand how the metals can be used to made as medicines and can be used to treat various ailments. It's highly scientific.

It's like the science has extracted various molecules from plant sources like Penicillin and Aspirin. Similarly metals have some medicinal and some properties to affect human metabolism. If you consider them poison, at least try to find out the chemical compound structure of various Ayurvedic Bhasmas and do clinical trials using them on Aplastic anemia, ITP, Myelodysplastic diseases and other complicated tumors.

It's like using Snake's venom to treat Snake venom patient. In Modern system, Snake venom is needed to prepare shots for treatment of snake bite.

In Ayurveda, Gandhak ( Sulfur) is described in ancient alchemy. It is a powerful rejuvenating substance in human body.

Ayurveda classifies metals, non-metals and minerals in various categories.

CLASSIFICATION OF MEDICINAL METALS AND MINERALS IN AYURVEDA

• Rasa = Mercury
• Kajjali = Kajjali is the base of all metal, mineral based preparations in Ayurveda.  It's black Sulphide of Mercury.

WHAT IS KAJJALI (MERCURY + SULFUR)

Kajjali is prepared by combining Mercury with Sulfur to render it harmless and make it beneficial. There are several processes involved after Kajjali formation to nullify the side effects of Bhasmas. Sulfur is important ingredient of all Ayuredic metalllic preparations.

Kajjali is totally harmless and comes out of body without damaging any organs. Here is scientific explanation about the combination of Mercury with Sulfur. However this article is only about Sulfur but here is explanation about another compound of Mercury+ Sulfur called - Kajjali in Ayurveda.

This Kajjali was evaluated by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis (EDAX). SEM images with the magnifications of 2.00KX, 1.00 KX and spatial resolution of 25 nm represented that it formed the order of agglomerates consisted of small spherical particles approximately size of 3 μm to 10 μm observed, whereas EDAX showed the presence of Hg (69.33%), S (24.44%), O (4.64%) and Ag (1.59%) in the final preparation of Kajjali.

Chemical Characterization of Samaguna... (PDF Download Available). Available from:

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/258954988_Chemical_Characterization_of_Samaguna_Balijarita_Kajjali_Black_Sulphide_of_Mercury [accessed May 20 2018].

• Eight Maha Rasa
• Eight Upa Rasa
• Eight Sadharan Rasa

Eight Maha Rasa - Abhrak, Vaikrant, Makshik, Vimal, Adrij, Sasyak, Chapal and Rasak.

Eight Uparasa - Gandhak (Sulfur), Gairik, Kaasis, Kankshi, Taal, Shila, Anjan, Kankusht.

Eight Sadharan Rasa - Kampillak, Gori Pashan, Navasadar, Karpad, Agnijaar, Giri Sindoor, Hingul, Mridar Shring.

Sulfur is the 8th Most abundant mineral in the body after oxygen, carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, calcium, phosphoorus and potassium then sulphur, chlorine and Sodium and other minerals and metals in traces are Magnesium, iron, Manganese, Copper, Iodine, cobalt, Zinc etc.

SOURCES OF SULPHUR

Nuts, Eggs, Meats, Fishes, Onion, Garlic, leafy green vegetables.

Sulphur rich soils are mainly found in Iceland, Japan, Italy, Hawaii and countries where volcanic activity is more. These countries have active volcanoes and the soil is rich in natural minerals like Sulfur. The people are not so obese, have longer life spans, less depression. Although Iceland is in northern hemisphere, lacks sun but still Icelanders are not prone to cardiac ailments, depression, obesity as compared to Canada and United States.

In Ancient Analogy, Ayurveda has compared Mercury to "Virya" of Lord Shiva and Sulfur to "Raj or Artav" of Goddess Parvati. From various volcanic eruptions, the Artav of Goddess Parvati comes out oozing from the mountains and flows down the mountains and dries up and gets absorbed in the earth to replenish it and give nutrition to plants and animals.

Even now there are many sulfur springs in various mountains, giving nourishment to the skin and people travel to these hot water sulfur springs seeking cure for their various health problems, especially skin ailments.

Sulfur also has the power to control mercury. Ayurveda explains 4 types of Sulfur. White, Red, Yellow and Black.

Yellow one is used for medicinal purpose. Red one for chemical processes. Black one is not available and so is white one. Now a days we find only Yellow one. The other colorful ones can be Sulfur ores.

Amla Saar and Danda Gandhak are 2 types of yellow sulfur found according to their appearance. Amla Saar is considered more useful for medicinal purposes and Danda Sulfur is mainly used for preparing chemicals and ammunition. It's called Amla saar because the color of it is like Amla berries.. Yellowish.

Sulfur is found in the world where the volcanic activity is high for example Sicily, Japan and other such places.

COMPOUNDS OF SULFUR IN AYURVEDA

Anand Bhairav Ras, Ichabhedi Ras, Ras Sindoor, Gandhak Rasayan, Makardwaj, Swarn Vang, Ras Parpati, Sameer Pannag Ras, Kajjali etc.

GANDHAK RASAYAN

Gandhak Rasayan is a mineral-based medicine. It involves processing of detoxified Sulfur with herbal juices as the main ingredient.

It  is an amazing and effective Ayurvedic formulation which is usually administered orally in the form of a herbal powder or tablet.  It is considered the best and safe way for administering Shuddha Gandhaka (purified sulphur).

It has anti-viral, anti -pruritic, anti-bacterial and anti- inflammatory properties.

It also has blood purifying properties (Rakta Shodhaka). It helps in treating skin disorders too. It helps to balance the Vata, Pitta and Kapha.

GANDHAK RASAYAN VATI HAS AMAZING HEALING AND ANTIBIOTIC PROPERTIES AS BELOW:

• Antimicrobial
• Antibacterial
• Antifungal
• Anti-inflammatory
• Prophylactic/preventive
• Wound healing
• Pain relieving
• Blood purifying
• Elimination of toxins.
• Antidiarrhoeal

THERE ARE MANY BENEFITS OF GANDHAK RASAYAN

• Gandhak rasayan has antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antibiotic properties. It is known for treating many skin problems. It mitigates redness, irritation, itching, swelling and inflammation. It works really well in the health conditions with the common symptoms of burning sensation. It also treats urinary infections and burning sensation of hands and feet. Recommended dosage for gandhak rasayan for psoriasis and eczema is 1 to 3 grams once or twice a day before or after meals.
• Gandhak rasayan has amazing blood purifying properties. It acts and cures the area affected by imposing its antiseptic properties. It is well known for taking care and treating dandruff. It is helpful for balancing pitta dosh by suppressing extra heat from the body. In case of baldness or sudden hair fall Gandhak Rasayan is administered orally which results due to medications, stress, genetic factors or diseases.
• It is very effective in treating bacterial and fungal infections like kandu, kushtha, leprosy / mahakusta / kustaroga, itching, pama, eczema, urticaria, pustules in skin, fungal infections, dandruff, ringworm, scabies, abscesses, boils, and pimples.
• It is very effective for treating gouty arthritis, sinusitis, Scurvy, Chronic fever, Gastrointestinal disorders and Detoxifying blood.
• It works well as a Rejuvenator.
• It helps to remove toxins and other wastes from blood.
• It improves and enhances strength, nourishment and digestion of the body.
• It helps the body to get rid of pain.
• It improves skin complexion.
• It can heal wounds.
• It promotes and improves health and vigor.
• It slows down aging process.
• It provide longevity.
• It improves immunity of body.