A REVIEW ON SWARNA MAKSHIKA

Abstract

Swarna Makshika (Chalcopyrite) is one such drug, which has been used since olden days. The references about Swarna Makshika are found in ancient Ayurvedic texts like Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Sangraha etc. It is evident from the Ayurvedic classics that, the therapeutic use of Swarna Makshika has been in practice since Samhita kala itself. Swarna Makshika had a unique place in the treatment of diseases.

Swarna Makshika is the most abundant Copper bearing mineral. It is also known as Copper pyrite. It mainly contains Copper, Iron and Sulphur. But unfortunately due to lack of genuine sample, now-a- days Roupya Makshika or Vimala is being used as Swarna Makshika. The present study aims at comprehensive literary review on Swarna Makshika.