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.
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