Essay name: Alchemy in India and China
Author:
Vijaya Jayant Deshpande
Affiliation: Panjab University / Department of Chemistry
The thesis "Alchemy in India and China" explores the comparative aspects of alchemy in these two countries, focusing on chemical and protochemical formulations while addressing why modern science developed in the West rather than in India or China. It briefly touches upon internal alchemy in China and the ritualistic tantra in India.
Chapter 6 - Transmission of Alchemical and Chemical ideas (Part 2)
1 (of 48)
External source: Shodhganga (Repository of Indian theses)
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CHAPTER VI TRANSMISSION OF ALCHEMICAL AND CHEMICAL IDEAS BETWEEN INDIA AND CHINA DURING MEDIEVAL PERIOD - II In earlier chapters we have examined similarities between the characteristics of Indian and Chinese alchemy, as seen in their objectives, ingredients and methods. We have discussed the close Sino-Indian contacts during the medieval period and also parallel development of alchemy, thereby suggesting the transmission of alchemical and chemical ideas between them. In the absence of direct references of the kind described in the previous chapter, it is difficult to establish conclusively the nature of scientific knowledge transmitted, its direction and period. Nevertheless, a close study of old texts, old translations and historical records help in such investigations. Also etymological and linguistic studies of the names of certain chemicals, products and processes lead to many important revelations regarding the exchange of ideas. It also contributes in our comprehension of the extent of scientific knowledge of those times. There are similarities in the names of the substances commonly used in alchemy, in Indian and Chinese 131
