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Introduction: Rasashastra, the specialized branch of Ayurveda dealing with herbo-mineral formulations, assigns a central role to Parada (mercury). The classical texts describe Ashtasamskara—eight specific purification and processing steps—as essential for detoxifying and potentiating mercury before therapeutic use. This process reflects Ayurveda’s scientific approach toward transforming toxic metals into biocompatible and therapeutic agents.Methods: A systematic review of classical texts (Rasa Ratna Samuccaya, Rasatarangini, Ayurveda Prakasha) was undertaken along with modern research studies retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Search terms included “Ashtasamskara,” “Parada purification,” “mercury Ayurveda,” and “Rasashastra pharmaceutics.” Inclusion criteria were classical descriptions, pharmaceutical studies, toxicological assessments, and modern analytical validations of the process.Results: The eight Samskaras of Parada—Svedana, Mardana, Murchana, Utthapana, Patana, Rodhana, Niyamana, and Deepana—were thematically analyzed. Classical descriptions highlight their role in removing impurities, stabilizing mercury, and enhancing its therapeutic potency. Modern studies demonstrate that these processes reduce free mercury, alter its physicochemical properties, and render it safer for therapeutic use. Analytical methods such as XRD, SEM, ICP-MS, and FTIR have confirmed structural transformations and stabilization of mercury particles. Pharmacological studies suggest improved bioavailability and reduced toxicity of Parada subjected to Ashtasamskara.Discussion: The Ashtasamskara process aligns with contemporary principles of nanoscience, detoxification, and stabilization. While classical texts emphasize therapeutic enhancement, modern science validates detoxification and particle modification as the probable mechanisms. However, limitations in standardization and paucity of large-scale toxicological and clinical studies remain major challenges.Conclusion: Ashtasamskara of Parada demonstrates Ayurveda’s advanced pharmaceutics, ensuring safety, efficacy, and stability of mercury-based formulations. Integrating classical wisdom with modern validation is essential for developing standardized, globally acceptable protocols.

KEYWORDS: Ashtasamskara, Ayurveda, Mercury, Parada, Rasashastra