ASSESSMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE OF SAMSKARA IN THE PREPARATION OF SUKUMARA GHRITA BY PHYSICO-CHEMICAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

Ghrita (ghee) preparations are used internally for Shamana (alleviating treatment), Shodhana (purification treatment) and Netratarpana (eye rejuvenation method) type of treatments. There is a misconception among the masses that Ghrita (ghee) need to be used carefully as it increases the lipid profile. Many Samskara (process) are mentioned in the Ayurvedic classics for drugs to modify or reduce the undesired effects. Murchana Samskara (processing of ghee) is one among these Samskara (process) mentioned by Bhaishajya Ratnavali for Ghrita (ghee) and Taila (oil) to reduce the undesired effects and add beneficial effects. As this method is an additional process to Ghrita (ghee) preparation, most of the Ayurvedic pharmaceutical companies do not follow this method as it adds up to the cost and is time consuming. To evaluate the significance of Murchana Samskara (processing of ghee), Sukumara Ghrita is taken as one of the examples as it is used as Shamana (alleviating treatment) Aushadhi (medicine) and in Purvakarma (preceding procedure) of Virechana (purgation therapy) or Vamana (emesis therapy) for Snehapana (oleation therapy). Sukumara Ghrita prepared with Amurchita Ghrita (unprocessed ghee) and Murchita Ghrita (processed ghee) samples were subjected for physico-chemical parameters which has shown increase in the refractive index, specific gravity, saponification value, Iodine value, Ester value, and decrease in acid value, Viscosity, Density, Total fatty acids. Murchana process (processing of ghee) imparts changes in colour, odour, minimizing rancidity and increasing stability, facilitates better dissolution of bio constituents and unsaturated fatty acids in Ghrita (ghee).