Abstract

RASPUSHPADYA MALHAR - A LEAST EXPLORED FORMULATION OF PARAD

*Dr. Gayatri Gaonkar

ABSTRACT

Background: Malhar kalpana is classified under Bahya kalpana(external application). Malhar word has been derived from the words ‘Malham’ or ‘Marham’ which are Unani in their origin. Malhar kalpana was described by Yogratnakar for the very first time in Ayurved. Malhar means the one which removes mala ie. debris or dead cells and dirt from the skin. They are similar to the ointments and creams in modern pharmaceutics. Rasapushpa is a nirgandha kalpana of Parad and its malhar which was firstly mentioned in Rasatarangini is indicated in eczema occurring around anus and wounds caused due to syphilis. Materials and Methods: After authentication of the raw materials, Rasapushpa a nirgandha kupipakva kalpana of parad was prepared in 2 batches followed by the malhar preparation using sikta tail by Rasatarangini reference. The malhar too was prepared in 2 batches. These batches of both Rasapushpa and Rasapushpadya malhar were then analysed. Results: The mercury percentage of both Rasapushpa batches was in the range of 40-45 which is lesser than the standard limits. Chloride values were in par with their standard limits. Rasapushpadya malhar prepared was a lemon yellow coloured soft malhar. Its pH was between 6-6.5. It had nil peroxide value and its Acid value was within accepatable limits.

Keywords: Rasapushpadya Malhar, Parad, Nirgandha.