MERCURT* ' 31 



adhere below the neck of the bottle. It is taken out in the shape 

 of dark reel shining scales. 



The four preparations of mercury above mentioned, though 

 described in most works on metalic medicines, are not, practically 

 used in the treatment of diseases under these names. In the 

 present day the yellow preparation is not in use. The white form 

 called Rasalcarpura is now prepared, notaccordirg to the processes 

 described in Sanskrit works, but b} subliming the black sulphide 

 of mercury wi th common or rock salt. In this form it is largely 

 manufactured and sold in all the bazars. The red preparation is 

 better known as Earn sindura • and the black one as Rasa parpati. 

 hi fact, practically, prepared mercury means the red preparation 

 or Rasa sindura and this is the form in which it is largely used. 

 Besides this, the black and red sulphides of mercury are also 

 used internally. The black sulphide is prepared by rubbing 

 together equal parts of sulphur and mercury till the globules 

 disappear. It is called Kajjali A The red sulphide or cinnabar 

 is called hingula. These four preparations, namely, cinnabar, 

 the black sulphide called Kajjali, the red preparation called 

 Rasasindura, and the Rasakarpura of the bazar, are the four 

 principal forms in which mercury is used in Hindu medicine ; 

 that is, they constitute the basis of all the formulae containing 

 mercury. 



Mercury is said to be imbued with the six tastes, and capable 

 of removing derangements of all the humours. It is the first of 

 alterative tonics. Combined with other appropriate medicines it 



I 



cures all diseases, acts as a powerful tonic and improves the 

 vision and complexion. 



In fevers of all descriptions, mercury is extensively used in 

 combination with aconite, croton seed, datura, and other medi- 

 cines. The following are a few illustrations. 



Hiiigulesrara. Take of cinnabar, aconite, and long pepper, 

 equal parts, rub together in a mortar and make into pills about 



1. ^nsrftnn i m w *reT t** *ai mrfira^r i qj* * s^f* *nw 



