Review on Abhrasindoora: A Sublimated Mercurial Formulation as a Herbo-Bio-Mineral Metallic Compound for Respiratory Ailments

Abhrasindoora is a unique mercurial formulation as a herbo-bio-mineral metallic compound which is mentioned under Kupipakwa Rasayana Prakarana in Rasendra Sambhava. There are four formulations are mentioned with the name of Abhrasindoora, amongst them one in Rasendra Review Article Bramhankar et al.; JPRI, 33(42B): 339-349, 2021; Article no.JPRI.73163 340 Shambhava and three in Rasayogasagara. In this review article we have focused on the specific method mentioned in Rasendra Sambhava, which is a combination of Dhanyabhraka, Shodhita Parada (Mercury), Shodhita Gandhaka (Sulphur) in equal proportion (1:1:1). Its method of preparation initiates with the Kajjali formation followed by impregnation of Latex of Calotropis procera (QS) and freshly expressed arial root juice of Ficus bengalensis (QS) and cooking into mud smeared seven layered glass bottle using sand bath heating system. Specific heating pattern consisting of mild (120 0 C-250 0 C) moderate (250 0 C-450 0 C) and intense (450 0 C-650 0 C) heat should be maintained for preparation of Abhrasindoora. Previous pharmaceutical study done by Dr. Jyoti B. (2018) had yielded approximately 28% bright red color Abhrasindoora. In Rasayogasagara, bhasmikarana process is mentioned for preparation of Abhrasindoora which is not appropriate as per current trend. Hence, Rasendra Sambhava method is appropriate to prepare Abhrasindoora. This formulation has broad spectrum activity along with suitable adjuvants. The therapeutic indications are Cough, Bronchial Asthma, Fever etc. This herbo-bio-mineral metallic compound is quick acting, low dose, highly stable, good palatability and helps to treats chronic ailments.

Shambhava and three in Rasayogasagara. In this review article we have focused on the specific method mentioned in Rasendra Sambhava, which is a combination of Dhanyabhraka, Shodhita Parada (Mercury), Shodhita Gandhaka (Sulphur) in equal proportion (1:1:1). Its method of preparation initiates with the Kajjali formation followed by impregnation of Latex of Calotropis procera (QS) and freshly expressed arial root juice of Ficus bengalensis (QS) and cooking into mud smeared seven layered glass bottle using sand bath heating system. Specific heating pattern consisting of mild (120 In Rasayogasagara, bhasmikarana process is mentioned for preparation of Abhrasindoora which is not appropriate as per current trend. Hence, Rasendra Sambhava method is appropriate to prepare Abhrasindoora. This formulation has broad spectrum activity along with suitable adjuvants. The therapeutic indications are Cough, Bronchial Asthma, Fever etc. This herbo-bio-mineral metallic compound is quick acting, low dose, highly stable, good palatability and helps to treats chronic ailments.

INTRODUCTION
Ayurveda orates that each substance found on the earth has medicinal properties including metals, minerals as well as toxic plants [1]. The synthesis of medicine could be done from metal, mineral, animal, and poisonous plants, by conducting various pharmaceutical processes like Shodhana, Marana, Jarana, Amritikarana etc which comes under Rasashastra as a Ayurvedic Pharmacal processing techniques [2]. Mercury (Parada) is considered as a highly potent and superior drug amongst all Rasadravya [3]. Mercury is commonly combined with various Rasadravya for imbibing the specific disease curing capacity, technically termed as Murcchana (Mercurial formulations) [4]. Kupipakwa Rasayana is a Murchita Parada/Jarana, which is more potent form of rasaushadhies as compare to Khalvi Rasayana and Parapati kalpa. The pharmaceutical process of Kupipakwa Rasayana is a unique method, where specially designed glass bottle, valuka yantra are used. Previously Sindoora kalpas were prepared by using different types of containers. With developing world, ancient methods changed into newer one which follows the standard manufacturing process with great practical exposure of Rasacharyas. First method linked with the preparation of Parada Bhasma by Kupipakwa Rasayana is mentioned in Rasa Hridaya Tantra, where it is prepared in Loha samputa and Valuka yantra [5]. Red color mercurial compound as an Udayabhaskara Rasa in the context of Rasabhasma and Rasakarpoora as Ghanarasa are mentioned in Rasaprakash Sudhakara. [6]. Rasavagbhata have mentioned eight types of Parada Bahsma and it has unspecified colours of final compound [7]. Ayurved Prakash have mentioned Sinduranama rasa instead of the word Rasa Sindoora [8]. Rasendra Chintamani has emphasized on Gandhaka Jarana and its importance, where it is prepared by two methods viz. Antardhuma and Bahirdhuma. The term Rasasindoora is mentioned for the first time in this text [9]. In Rasatarangini, pharmaceutical processing of Kupipakwa Rasayana is given in systematic manner. It mainly emphasized on therapeutic uses along with the safety profile of Parada Murcchana, where it is prepared with Gandhaka or without Gandhaka. It also mentions the duration and intensity of heat to be applied for that process [10]. They have mentioned the therapeutic properties of Sindoora kalpa with specific dose, specific anupana/sahapana (Adjuvant) which are useful to cure particular disease. Abhrasindoora is a herbo-mineral compound. Its method of preparation is common as that of Kupipakwa Rasayana. Purified mercury and sulphur combines with dhanyabhraka, so it has special property to treat respiratory ailments as comparative to Rasasindoora. Different methods of preparation and combined ingredients has mentioned to prepare Abhrasindoora. Amongst them, Rasendra Sambhava have given proper method of preparation of Abhrasindoora [11]. This method of preparation should be followed as a standard operative procedure. Rasayogasagara, depicted the three combinations in the name of Abhrasidndoora, which can be prepared in many steps [12]. These (Tables no: 2, 3 and 4) methods of preparations are not same as standard operative procedure of Sindoora Kalpa, therefore Rasendra Sambhava method is to be preferred, fulfil the therapeutic properties of Kupipakwa kalpa.

METHODOLOGY
An extensive literary search of different classical texts along with commentaries has been conducted to collect classical references of Abhrasindoora. Multiple databases (Science Direct, PubMed, Google Scholar, DHARA online) were also searched for the related published articles. An attempt has been made rationally to explain pharmaceutics of Abhrasindoora.
Tables showing pharmaceutical information of Abhrasindoora mentioned in various rasa text.

INGREDIENTS FOR THE PREPARATION OF Abhrasindoora (Grahya lakshanas)
Abhraka (Biotite mica): The physical properties of Abhraka (Fig. 1) are unctuous, heavy weighted, big pieces, black color like collyrium, hard and easily separable layers. The abhraka which is found in north east region of India under earth crust deep in Rajahasta pramana. (30 Angulas = 57 cm) [15]. It has four varieties on the basis of color and viz. White, Red, Yellow and Black. Also have four types depending upon heating response viz. Naga, Pinaka, Manduka and Vajra. Krishna vajrabhraka with above said properties is said to be perfect Abhraka for preparation of bhasma [16]. On the basis of mineralogical parameters, Biotite-Ferromagnesium mica is best amongst 5 varieties.   Parada (Mercury): Parada (Fig. 2) is a bright, metallic, silvery liquid metal with blue tinge after exposing to the sunlight and looks like sunrise [17]. This physical appearance of mercury is considered as acceptable quality to prepare medicine. Parada showing different color than natural color of mercury should be avoided. All these properties are found in mercury extracted from Hingula by classical method. It is highly acceptable to prepare medicament from Hingulottha Parada as it is free from all blemishes like naga-vanga-bhujanga-kanchuka dosha (impure with lead, arsenic like toxic elements) [18].
Gandhaka (Sulphur) (Fig. 3): The yellow colored, shiny, smooth, resembling ripen Indian gooseberry (Amalaki) colour are considered as good quality of Gandhaka for preparation of Rasaushadhies [19]. There are two varieties are explained viz. Amalasara Gandhaka and Khatika gandhaka which are used internally and externally respectively. Clean, bright, and lustrous like root tuber of curcuma and shiny, soft like butter are acceptable quality of Amalsara gandhaka [20].

Vatashunga swarasa (Leaf bud of Ficus benghalensis Linn.): Vatashunga
Pharmaceutical processing of Abhrasindoora involves treating metallic mercury with sulfur, Dhanyabhraka and the juice of the aerial root of Banyan tree (Ficus benghalensis Linn.) Juice of arial roots of Ficus bengalensis Linn serve as an acidic medium which helps in the formation of Mercury sulphide.
ii) Purification of ingredients: Abhrasindoora contains inorganic and some toxic metals, minerals that must be purified before preparing Kupipakwa Rasayana.  (Biotite mica) Shodhana: (Heating of metal/mineral till red hot and quenching in specified media) method to be of Abhraka. Various purification media such as Triphala kwatha, Kanji, Gomutra, are used. This process is nded for 7 times by shodhana media but is highly recommended [25].  [26].

c) Gandhaka
Shodhana: Dhalana (Molten state of Metal/Mineral pour into liquid shodhana media) process is commonly adopted to purify Gandhaka. Molten state of gandhaka in ghrita smeared Darvika yantra poured into godugdha containing vessel through cotton cloth tied over vessel [27]. The dhalita gandhaka collected back and washed with warm water to remove viscous ghee. After drying, it is pounded to fine powder. The dhalana process should be repeated for seven times to get shodhita gandhaka [28].

iii) Preparation of Dhanyabhraka: Dhanyabharaka
is process of preparation of purified mica into uniform particle size and fine powder. The shodhita Abhraka and husk rice form a pottali in jute bag and soaking into kanji (Sour fermented liquid) for three days. Then rubbing process to be carried out and fine particle of mica should be collected after proper washing in lukewarm water. The fine particles of mica obtained through above said process is known as Dhanyabhraka [29]. iv) Method of Kajjali preparation: Shodhita mercury and Sulphur are to be taken in khalva yantra and triturated to obtained collyrium like consistency with jet black color. After that Dhanyabhraka should be added and trituration process to be done till appearance of the test of perfectness [30].

vi)
Preparation of Kachakupi (Fig. 9): Amber colored elongated glass bottle, narrowing at the neck is generally used to prepare kupipkwa rasayana. It is prepared by wrapping seven mud smeared cloth layer followed by drying, which is resistant to high temperature and helps to collect final product at the neck or bottom of kachakupi [32].

vii) Arrangement of Valuka Yantra:
Valuka yantra (Fig. 8) is an instrument where sand is filled in a container. The kachakupi should be occupied properly in that container, which is placed over to hearth for heating process [33]. viii) Vertical electric muffle furnace: It is an electrical muffle furnace, where controlled temperature can be given from mild to intense heat. It is more convenient than valuka yantra but Rasacharya advised to use valuka yantra. So, it is a research topic to prove the efficacy amongst two yantra [34].

ix) Corking material (Mukha mudrana):
Sudha churna, Jaggary, and soil are advised for preparing crocking to close Kachakupi in Atardhooma and Bahirdhooma vidhi [35]. Gradual increase in pattern of heat and duration of cooking is depends on symptoms appearing while preparation [37]. ii) Use of sheeta shalaka and Tapta shalaka: Sheeta shalaka is used to know the consistency of kajjali while cooking in kachakupi and tapta shalaka is needed to insert in kachakupi where blockage is seen due to the deposition of sulphur [38]. iii) Corking of kachakupi (Mukha mudrana): Kupi mudrana is to be done when complete disappearance of flame fumes and red bottom of kachakupi is seen [39]. iv) Swangasheeta (Shelf cooling): After corking and cooking, one should wait till cooling of kachakupi upto room temperature. After that, remove the kupi and product should be collected [39].

c) Post preparation i) Collection of finished product:
The final product which is obtained in kachakupi is removed from valuka yantra (Sand bath) and after self-cooling product should be collected from neck of kachakupi. For collection of sindoora kalpa, it should be braked by igniting kerosene-soaked thread wrapped in upper middle part of glass bottle, and allowed to burn it. After complete burning of thread, glass bottle is horizontally rolled in wet cloth to facilitate its breaking due to change in temperature [40]. ii) Storage: Crystals of Sindoora should be pounded and triturated in khalava yantra to obtain superfine powder (More than 120-200 mesh size) in bright red color, which is called as sindoora [41].

Analytical test of Sindoora Kalpa: a) Classical analytical parameters
Various organoleptic and physicochemical tests such as color, odor, consistency, and appearance etc are to be done to test the perfectness of kupipakwa rasayana. The final product should be smooth, glazy, crystalline (Finished product) amorphous and bright red color (After trituration) [42] Instrumental parameters: Various analytical tests are developed and should be done by using several instruments, where particle size by scanning electron microscope/energy dispersive x-ray sprectroscopy, elemental percentage by WD-XRF, concentration of ingredients by Inductively coupled plasma atomic emission sprectoscopy and structure with the help of XRD etc can be identified [42].

DISCUSSION
Abhrasindoora is a Herbo-Bio-Mineral metallic compound which is prepared by using various methods [11]. On the name of Abhrasindoora, there are four pharmaceutical processes are mentioned in Rasashastra. Amongst them, one method is explained in Rasendra Sambhava and three methods in Rasayogasagara. Methods of preparation and the ingredients mentioned in each method are not uniform to prepare Abhrasindoora. Use of Kachakupi is must in preparation of Sindoora kalpa and obtained product can be collected either from neck or bottom of the Kachakupi. In Rasendra Sambhava, Abhrasindoora is prepared in proper sequence from bio-purification of Mercury, Sulphur and Black mica followed by preparation of jet-black colored (Kajjali) powder, impregnation (Bhavana) process and cooking process in Kachakupi. Rasayoga Sagara mentioned that incineration (Marana) process for preparation of Abhrasindoora and it is indicated in Rajayakshma (Tuberculosis), Vajikarana (Aphrodisiac) etc. There was not followed preparation method of Sindoora kalpa; therefore, these methods cannot use to standardize the manufacturing process of Abhrasindoora. (12) In previous pharmaceutical study of Abhrasindoora shows that, Hingulotha parada, Sodhita gandhaka and Shodhita Abhraka which is taken in dhanyabhraka form for preparation of Abhrasindoora kajjali. Bhavana was given with latex of Calotropis procera and Arial root juice of Ficus bengalensis. It was prepared in kachakupi, the heating pattern ranging from mild (120 0 C-250 0 C), moderate (250 0 C-450 0 C), and intense (450 0 C-650 0 C). The total yield of Abhrasindoora was 28 % obtained. The particle size of Abhrasindoora was 14.87 nm which will be facilitates the absorption in GIT. Presence of Ce, OO, Si, S, Al and HgM by SEM EDX test. FTIR confirms the presence of organic compound form, shodhana media and bhavana media was used. In XRD analytical test hexagonal crystal system was observed. XRF-ED test shows that presence of S, Br, Hg and trace elements like K, Ca, Ti, Mn, and Fe in ABS [37].
Purification of metal and minerals using organic shodhana media is primary and important samskara to remove the physical and chemical impurities. It makes Rasadravya brittle and in certain extent help to convert it into small particles. Shodhana process helps to make it in organo mineral-Metallic form. Dhanyabharakikarana helps to provide very fine particles of shodhita Abhraka which can be directly used to prepare Abhrasindoora kajjali. Preparation of kajjali is important intermediate stage of Abhrasindoora where shodhita material gets converted into very fine powder which will be devoid from any lustrous free particles and obtained in jet black color. Very smooth and black colored powder of Abhrasindoora impregnated with organic latex of Arka and Vatankura juice. The presence of organic matter on the surface of the drug suggest that these organic matter as the coating material on the surface of metallic compound present in the drug and metal compound acts a carrier of the organic matter derived from herbs used while preparation [43]. Then black sulphide of mercury-Abhraka is converted into sublimated product with the help of very high temperature in particular duration it sublimated at neck of kachakupi and forms into new compound which will be red suphide of mercury -with trace elements of mica [38].
Analysis of Abhrasindopora will be done by taking reference of Rasasindoora. Following analytical test will be carried out to evaluate its purity, quality and strength.
Nischandra: The final formulation should be lusterless. Rekhapurnata: When fine powder of sindoora rub between thumb and index finger it should enter into the furrows of the finger, and should not easily removed from the cleavage of the lines. Varitara: When small amount of Abhrasindoora placed over the stable water in a beaker, it should float over the surface of the water [44].
Following Analytical tests should be done to assess quality of finished product: This compound is potent form of combination of Abhraka, Parada and Gandhaka which is indicated in respiratory system diseases. Kajjali and Abhraka bhasma is act on respiratory system ailments mentioned in text. In this combination it provides quick action with synergistic effect of Abhraka bhasma, useful in acute and chronic ailments of body along with various adjuvants. The following significance are depicted over various dosage forms of mercury.
2) It has quick action.

CONCLUSION
Abhrasindoora is a sagandha murchita kupipakva rasayana of mercurial preparation. Method of preparation explained in Rasendra sambhava is more appropriate, so it can be followed to prepare Kupipakwa rasayana. The temperature pattern followed by Rasa tarangini is suitable pattern of kramagni paka. The final product is obtained at neck of kachakupi with appreciating colour of Abhrasindoora. Abhraka as an ingredient of Abhrasindura, a specially acts on respiratory system and act synergistically, where Rasasindoora act on respiratory system is proved. While preparation of Abhrasindoora, there is no need to prepare Abhraka Bhasma separately.
Hence, it is beneficial pharmaceutically as well as therapeutically. Dhanyabharaka sublimation at neck of kachakupi is a topic for further pharmaceutical research.

CONSENT
It is not applicable.

ETHICAL APPROVAL
As per international standard or university standard written ethical approval has been collected and preserved by the author(s).

NOTE:
The study highlights the efficacy of Ayurveda which is an ancient tradition, used in some parts of India. This ancient concept should be carefully evaluated in the light of modern medical science and can be utilized partially if found suitable.

DISCLAIMER
The products used for this research are commonly and predominantly use products in our area of research and country. There is absolutely no conflict of interest between the authors and producers of the products because we do not intend to use these products as an avenue for any litigation but for the advancement of knowledge. Also, the research was not funded by the producing company rather it was funded by personal efforts of the authors.