Abstract

COMPREHENSIVE PHARMACEUTICAL AND THERAPEUTIC REVIEW OF TANKANA (BORAX) IN RASASHASTRA

Dr. Swapnil Dhanraj Sayankar*, Dr. Sneha Kubde

Abstract

Tankana (Borax), classified as an Uparasa Kshāra, is an important mineral used in Rasashastra and Rasaushadhi formulations for its wide pharmaceutical and therapeutic applications. It acts as a Yogavāhi (catalyst), enhances stability, and contributes to the efficacy and safety of herbo-mineral preparations. Classical texts such as Rasa Tarangini and Ras Ratna Samucchaya describe its role in alleviating Vāta-Pitta disorders, liquefying Kapha, and mitigating Pitta kruccha conditions. The Shodhana (purification) process of Tankana, typically performed through Nirvāpa (heating until efflorescence ceases), removes impurities and crystallization water, yielding an anhydrous, pharmaceutically stable form. Advanced analytical studies (XRD, SEM, EDAX) confirm that purified Tankana attains a stable orthorhombic Na₂B₄O₇·5H₂O structure with enhanced boron content, thereby improving potency and safety. Pharmacologically, Tankana exhibits Uṣṇa, Tīkṣṇa, Laghu, and Rūkṣa properties, showing carminative, expectorant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and digestant activities, beneficial in respiratory, gastrointestinal, and inflammatory disorders. Classical formulations like Kaphaketu Rasa and Tribhuvana Kirti Rasa incorporate it as a Bhāvana dravya, Anupāna, or catalyst. Notably, Tankana serves as an antidote to Vatsanabha (Aconitum ferox) poisoning when administered with ghee or honey, a property validated by traditional and modern studies indicating non-lethal and detoxifying potential. In conclusion, Tankana represents a vital mineral in Rasashastra, functioning as a detoxifier, catalyst, and therapeutic agent. Its classical relevance, coupled with modern scientific validation, underscores its importance in bridging traditional Ayurvedic pharmaceutics with contemporary pharmacological safety and efficacy.

Keywords: Tankana, Borax, Rasashastra, Shodhana, Yogavāhi, Rasaushadhi, Vatsanabha, Antidote, Ayurvedic pharmaceutics, Bhāvana dravya.