Comparative Analytical Study of Ashuddha Bhallataka and Shuddha Bhallataka

Abstract

Introduction: Bhallataka (Semecarpus Anacardium Linn.) is reported under Upavisha Dravya in classical Ayurvedic pharmacopeias. It is observed that Shodhana (purification procedures) of the fruits should be carried out before its internal administration. There are different Shodhana methods mentioned in Ayurveda. In this study brick powder was used as media. Objective: To evaluate the impact of Shodhana on Ashuddha Bhallataka and to compare the physico analytical parameters of Ashuddha Bhallataka and Shuddha Bhallataka. Materials & Methods: Ashuddha Bhallataka was taken. Cap was removed and they dumped in Pottali with brick powder. Pottali was tied. Then they were rubbed intermittent with changing brick powder till the oily content secretion from them stopped. Then they are washed with leuk warm water and dried. Discussion: Ashuddha Bhallataka containes oil in it which is removed after Shodhana process. so that foreign matter, loss on drying was less in Shuddha Bhallataka and due to Shodhana process with brick powder total ash, acid insoluble ash, was more than that of Ashuddha Bhallataka.