Examining the Many Varieties of Gold-Containing Mercury Concoctions, or Makaradhwaja

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Makaradhwaja is a mercurial concoction that contains gold. Most Ayurvedic doctors
recommend this drug for its stimulating and revitalizing effects. Kupipakwa is the preferred method of
preparation (the medicine is prepared in a special glass made container called Kupi layered seven times
over with Fuller's earth, by administering high temperature), while Kharaliya is the second most common
method (the medicine is prepared by triturating all the compounds using a mortar and pestle). Different
sources provide varying references for the preparation, which in turn produces variations in its chemical
makeup, most notably the ppm of gold, and hence its effectiveness. The purpose of this research is to examine
these variations in treatment and their clinical relevance. CONTENT & APPROACH: The study was finished
by reviewing data from a number of research publications, Ayurvedic literature, and postgraduate theses.
Because of the inclusion of heavy metals like mercury and gold, several questions have been raised about the
safety and toxicity of Makaradhwaja. Since then, several toxicity studies have shown the drug is generally
safe for consumption within recommended dosage ranges. Ayurvedic doctors continue to choose this
treatment above all others because of how well it works. When taken correctly, the research indicates that
Makaradhwaja prepared in any of the many ways is generally safe to use. Many people now self-medicate
since the pharmaceutical is so widely available, even at drugstores that don't need a doctor's prescription.
Because of this, the drug is now being used irrationally, diminishing its usefulness.