HARATALA (AS2S3): AN IMPORTANT ARSENIC COMPOUND USED IN AYURVEDA

Abstract

Ayurveda, the science of life is being practiced by Aryans from Vedic period. Arsenic compounds are popularly used in Ayurveda therapeutics since centuries. Haratala, Manahshila and Somala are important arsenic compounds used in Ayurveda. Haratala being important among them is commonly used in treating the diseases like Sleshmaroga, Raktapitta, Vatarakta, Kustha etc. Haratala is called orpiment of yellow arsenic with two molecules of Arsenic and three molecules of Sulphur (AS2S3). Haratala (Arsenic) is a poison which vary with the type and concentration of the poison. Haratala consumed without proper Shodhana shortens the life span, causes diseases of Kapha and Vata, Prameha, Santapa, Spotha, Snayu Sankocha. Hence Shodhana of Haratala is essential. Shodhana is the process of removal of physical, chemical impurities and potentiating of the drugs. Generally Shuddha Haratala is not given alone. It is administered along with herbal drugs or in the form of Rasamanikya or also as a main ingredient in most of the popular formulations like Samirapannaga Rasa, Vatagajankusha Rasa etc. There are different medias explained in literature for Shodhana of Haratala. According to the media of purification the quality and pharmacological properties of Haratala will vary. Depending on the change in properties the therapeutic effect may also vary. The present study includes the introduction of Haratala, origin of Haratala, types, properties, uses, Ashudha Haratala Guna, its management, modern review of Haratal and different Shodana Dravyas is explained.