Abstract

CHINCHA KSHARA: A DUAL-FORM COMPARATIVE STUDY W.S.R TO SUSHRUTA SAMHITA & SHARANGADHARA SAMHITA

Dr. Kamalapuri Partha Hari Chandan*, Dr. K. Srinivasa Kumar and Dr. J. Akshata

Abstract

The study investigates and compares the physicochemical and crystalline characteristics of Chincha Kshara—an alkaline preparation derived from tamarind bark—in both paste (kalka) and powder (churna) forms. Following classical Ayurvedic methods described by Acharya Sushruta and Sharangadhara, the Kshara was prepared and analyzed to determine its composition, stability, and potential therapeutic value. Physicochemical testing indicated significant differences in moisture content, with the paste exhibiting higher loss on drying than the powder. Both forms maintained a highly alkaline pH of 12. Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) revealed that key crystalline constituents included potassium-based compounds such as potassium chloride, potassium hydrogen carbonate, and potassium ferrate, which may contribute to the formulation’s traditional uses in treating digestive disorders and supporting electrolyte balance. The findings emphasize the relevance of classical Ayurvedic preparations in modern analytical contexts and support their continued exploration for therapeutic applications.

Keywords: Chincha Kshara, Apamarga Kshara, Chemical cauterisation, physico chemical Analysis.