Realgar

(Realgar)
Sanskrit: मनःशिला • Botanical: Arsenic disulphide (As2S2)

Manahshila (Realgar) is a red arsenic mineral. It is used after purification in skin diseases, worm infestations, fevers, and poisoning. It is a component of many Rasa formulations. Two types are recognized — Shyama (dark) and Rakta (red). It must be carefully purified as it contains arsenic. Used externally in skin diseases and internally in very small doses. Verses: 63-65.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Pungent (Katu), Bitter (Tikta), Astringent (Kashaya)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
As2S2 (Arsenic disulphide)
Also Known As
English: Realgar, Red Arsenic
Sanskrit: मनःशिला, नागजिह्विका, कुनटी, गोलरत्नी
Hindi: मैनसिल, मनसेल

What is Realgar (Manahshila / मनःशिला)?

Manahshila (Realgar) is a red arsenic mineral. It is used after purification in skin diseases, worm infestations, fevers, and poisoning. It is a component of many Rasa formulations. Two types are recognized — Shyama (dark) and Rakta (red). It must be carefully purified as it contains arsenic. Used externally in skin diseases and internally in very small doses. Verses: 63-65.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 7

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)
  • Kushthahara (anti-skin disease)
  • Vishaghna (anti-poison)
  • Jvaraghna (antipyretic)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 7

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.