Ras Parpati – Ayurvedic Benefits, Ingredients, Indications & Dosage

Abstract

Digestive and gastrointestinal disorders are among the most prevalent health concerns today, often arising from faulty dietary habits, stress, and compromised metabolic strength. These issues are particularly challenging when linked with chronic diarrhea (Atisara), malabsorption (Grahani), indigestion, and fever-related complications. Ayurveda offers potent formulations to restore digestive fire and strengthen the gut. Ras Parpati, a classical herbo-metallic Ayurvedic medicine, plays a crucial role in managing these disorders. By combining Shuddha Parada (purified mercury) and Shuddha Gandhaka (purified sulphur) in a specific ratio and preparing them through the Parpati Kalpana method, Ras Parpati acts as a deepana-pachana (digestive and carminative), Grahi (absorbent), and Rasayana (rejuvenator). Let us now delve deeper into the formulation and its therapeutic importance.

Introduction

Ras Parpati is a highly revered mercurial preparation in Ayurvedic medicine, prepared using the unique Parpati Kalpana technique. The word “Parpati” refers to a flaky or leaf-like form, which aids in better absorption and bioavailability. It is considered a milestone in Rasashastra (Ayurvedic subject dealing with mercurial, herbomineral, and mineral preparations) as it effectively removes the toxicity of mercury when properly prepared and enhances its therapeutic action. This formulation is mainly used to treat Atisara (diarrhea), Grahani (malabsorption syndrome), chronic fever (Jirna Jwara), and various gastrointestinal disorders. It also balances aggravated doshas and strengthens Agni (digestive fire). This thin, brittle form enhances absorption, bioavailability, and stability, making Ras Parpati a potent and fast-acting Ayurvedic medicine.

Classical Indications – Grahani (Malabsorption syndrome)

Ingredients

1. Shuddha Parada (Purified Mercury) – 1 part
2. Shuddha Gandhaka (Purified Sulphur) – 1 part

Description of Ingredients

1. Shuddha Parada (Purified Mercury) possesses Yogavahi (catalytic) and Rasayana (rejuvenating) qualities. Parada acts as a powerful bio-enhancer. It supports metabolic fire, eliminates Ama (toxins), and restores dhatu balance. It primarily acts on Majja (bone marrow) and Rakta (blood), making it ideal for chronic digestive and metabolic disorders.
2. Shuddha Gandhaka (Purified Sulphur) is known for its Vata-Pitta pacifying action; it supports Agni (digestive fire), eliminates toxins, and promotes healing. It is antibacterial and acts as a Rasayana (rejuvenating medicine) in digestive tract or skin-related disorders.

Method of Preparation

Take equal quantities of Shuddha Parada (purified mercury) and Shuddha Gandhaka (purified sulphur) are taken typically 5 tolas each (approx. 60 grams). These are mixed thoroughly and subjected to mardana (intense grinding) in a Khalwa Yantra (stone mortar and pestle). Once the mixture becomes a uniform Kajjali (black, lustrous paste), it is placed into an iron pan (Loha Khalwa) or an iron ladle (Kalai ki kadhai) greased with ghee. This paste is melted over a mild fire until it attains a semi-liquid consistency. The hot molten mixture is then poured carefully over a flat, clean banana leaf, which is placed over the evenly spread cow dung, then covered with another layer of banana leaf and spread the cow dung on it, allowing it to spread thin and cool. As it solidifies, the Parpati forms thin flakes, which are scraped off, powdered, and stored in airtight containers.

Indications

1. Malabsorption syndrome (Grahani)
2. Fever (Jwara)
3. Hyperacidity (Amlapitta)
4. Intestinal parasites (Krimi)
5. Pediatric digestive ailments (Balrog)
6. Diarrhea (Atisara)
   

Medicinal Properties

1. In Jirna Atisara (chronic diarrhea), administer with Rasaunt, Jatiphaladi churna, and Laghu Gangadhar churna.
2. In Ama Atisara, it is used with Laghu Gangadhar churna, Hingvashtaka churna, and Kuda chaal churna (bark of Holarrhena).
3. In Jwara (fever with loose stools), combine with Chandraprabha vati or Amritarishta.
4. In Agnimandya (low digestive fire), administer with Ghrita (ghee) or Ajwain ark.
5. In Grahani (Mal absorption syndrome), use buttermilk or Jeera jala (cumin water) to enhance Grahi property.
6. For children (Balrog), combine with Bilva Churna or Balchaturbhadra Churna.

Mode of Action (Pharmacodynamic Insight)

1. Ras Parpati helps arrest frequent loose stools by strengthening Grahani dhatu (absorptive power of intestines).
2. It detoxifies the gut and pacifies Samana Vayu and Pachaka Pitta (the components of Vata and Pitta responsible for digestion), harmonizing gut function.
3. By restoring Agni (Digestive fire), it prevents the formation of Ama and supports better assimilation.
4. The form (Parpati Kalpana) allows better absorption, especially beneficial in weakened patients.

Dosage

• 2–3 Ratti (250–375 mg) taken 2–3 times daily depending on strength and age.
• To be taken with an appropriate anupaan (adjuvant) like honey, ghrita, cumin, or decoctions.

Contraindications

1. Not recommended in acute constipation
2. Avoid in pregnancy unless advised by a physician
3. Caution in high Pitta or aggravated bleeding disorder.

Conclusion

Ras Parpati stands as a classical example of how Ayurvedic Rasashastra provides potent, bioavailable, and effective solutions to modern digestive and metabolic issues. It is especially effective in Grahani (malabsorption syndrome), Atisara (diarrhea), and Jwara (fever), and supports the restoration of Agni (digestive fire), the core of Ayurvedic healing. When used correctly under supervision and following proper dietary regimens, Ras Parpati (a mercurial Ayurvedic formulation) can offer deep and lasting healing. Its unique Parpati Kalpana (leaf-like flaky pharmaceutical form), Rasayana (rejuvenative) properties, and compatibility with various Anupaanas (adjuvants or vehicle substances) make it a versatile remedy in Ayurvedic practice.