Abstract

TANKAN: A REVIEW OF CLASSICAL AYURVEDIC LITERATURE

Dr. Loveleen Kour, *Dr. Nilima Dharkar, Dr. Neha Hiralal Patil, Dr. Omkar Devgir Giri

Abstract

Background: Tankan (Borax), an important mineral drug in Ayurveda, occupies a significant place in Rasashastra due to its wide therapeutic utility and extensive description in classical Ayurvedic literature. It is included under Kshar Dravyas and has been employed in numerous formulations after proper Shodhana (purification). Classical texts describe its pharmacological attributes, methods of purification, dosage, indications, and therapeutic applications in a variety of diseases. Objective: To critically review the classical Ayurvedic literature on Tankan with emphasis on its nomenclature, classification, therapeutic properties, formulations, indications, contraindications, and traditional significance. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using major Ayurvedic classics, including Rasa Tarangini, Ayurveda Prakasha, Rasa Ratna Samucchaya, Rasendra Sara Sangraha, and Rasa Jala Nidhi. Relevant information was systematically compiled, compared, and critically analyzed. Results: The review revealed that Tankan is predominantly classified as a Kshar Dravya possessing Katu and Lavana Rasa, Ushna Veerya, Katu Vipaka, Laghu, Tikshna, and Ruksha Guna, with Kapha-Vata Shamaka action. Classical texts consistently emphasize the necessity of Shodhana before therapeutic use, commonly achieved by heating until the crystalline mass swells and loses its water content. Tankan exhibits Deepana, Pachana, Lekhana, Bhedana, Krimighna, Vishaghna, and Vrana Shodhana properties and is indicated in disorders such as Kasa, Shwasa, Ajirna, Gulma, Arsha, Mutrakrichra, skin diseases, gynecological disorders, and wound management. It is also incorporated into numerous herbo-mineral formulations owing to its catalytic, preservative, and bioavailability-enhancing properties. Classical references further describe its external applications in oral diseases, ulcers, and wound care, highlighting its multifaceted therapeutic importance. Conclusion: Classical Ayurvedic literature provides comprehensive evidence supporting the therapeutic significance of Tankan as a versatile mineral drug. Its well-defined purification procedures and broad spectrum of pharmacological actions justify its continued use in Ayurvedic therapeutics. Systematic documentation and critical appraisal of these classical references provide a valuable foundation for contemporary pharmacological, toxicological, and clinical investigations aimed at validating its traditional applications.

Keywords: Tankan, Borax, Rasashastra, Tankan Kshar, Shodhana, Tankan Ayurvedic Literature, Mineral Drug.