“ANALYTICAL EVALUATION OF MAKARADHWAJA: CORRELATING TRADITIONAL PARAMETERS WITH MODERN SCIENTIFIC APPROACHES”
Introduction: Makaradhwaja, one of the most renowned Rasaushadhi formulations of Ayurveda, is prepared from mercury (Parada), gold (Swarna), and sulfur (Gandhaka). It is acclaimed for its rejuvenative, aphrodisiac, and immunomodulatory properties. Traditionally, its quality is assessed using organoleptic and classical tests, but modern analytical tools are increasingly applied to ensure safety, efficacy, and standardization. Methods: A comprehensive review was conducted using Ayurvedic texts (Rasaratna Samuccaya, Rasa Tarangini, Ayurveda Prakasha) and scientific databases (PubMed, Scopus, AYUSH Research Portal, and Google Scholar). The search strategy included keywords “Makaradhwaja,” “analytical evaluation,” “Ayurvedic formulations,” “Bhasma standardization,” and “nanoparticles.” Studies published between 1990–2025 were included. Both classical quality assessment criteria and modern analytical validations were compared. Results: Traditional parameters for Makaradhwaja include Varitaratva (floatability), Rekhapurnatva (fineness), and Nischandratva (lustrelessness), along with organoleptic assessments such as taste, color, and odor. Modern analytical evaluations using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) have revealed nanoscale structures and the presence of elemental mercury, sulfur, and gold in stable sulfide forms. Toxicological studies suggest that properly prepared Makaradhwaja, when subjected to classical Shodhana and Marana procedures, is safe for therapeutic use. Discussion: A critical correlation between classical and modern parameters suggests that traditional tests emphasize physical characteristics indicative of particle fineness and assimilation, while modern tools confirm these through structural and elemental analysis. However, significant gaps exist in clinical validation, standardization of preparation protocols, and global regulatory acceptance.
KEYWORDS: Ayurveda, Gold preparation, Makaradhwaja, Nanomedicine, Rasaushadhi