Chapala (Bismuth ore) Types, Shodhana, Marana and Qualities

Chapala is a controversial drug of Rasashastra. Some scholars consider it as Bismuth and others Selenium. Due to its controversy, its use is not seen nowadays. However, it is considered as one of the important drugs for Dhatuvada.

Synonyms  

Shaila, Chapala

Availability

Controversial. Bismuth is available in China, California, Kashmir and Bihar.

Types

1. Prakruta (Natural) 2. Krutrima (Artificial)

Prakruta type of Chapala has four types based on colour.  –
a. Goura – has the glitter similar to gold – used in Paradabandha.  
b. Shweta – has the glitter similar to silver – used in Paradabandha
c.Aruna  – melts easily upon heating. Hence has no medicinal value.
d. Krishna. – melts easily upon heating. Hence has no medicinal value.

Krutrima has two types –
1. Nagasambhoota (originated from Naga) and
2. Vangasambhoota (originated from Vanga).

Suitable characteristics

The one with shining and complexion similar to Sphatika, having six angles, smooth and heavy and melts similar to Vanga (having melting point nearer to Vanga – 233-degree celcius) is considered as good one.

Shodhana

Chapala poweder is given Bhavana with Nimbu, Vnadyakarkoti and Ardraka swarasa for seven times each.

Marana

Chapala pweder is added with Soraka and given one Puta to get its Bhasma.

Qualities

Does
Lekhana – scraping,
Snigdha – unctuous, oily,
Tiktarasa – bitter taste,
Ushna Virya – hot potency,
Madhura Vipaka – sweet taste in the post digestion stage,
useful for Dehasiddhi and Lohasiddhi.