Significance of Cinnabar
Cinnabar is a bright red mineral, primarily composed of mercury sulfide (HgS), recognized for its significant medicinal properties in both Rasashastra and modern science. In traditional medicine, Cinnabar is included in various formulations, serving as a key ingredient in medicinal preparations such as pills for curing ailments, showcasing its role in therapeutic applications. Additionally, it is noted as a principal ore for mercury, with its unique properties being utilized in alchemical processes and traditional remedies.
Synonyms: Mercury sulfide, Vermilion, Scarlet
In Dutch: Cinnaber; In Finnish: Sinooperi; In Spanish: Cinabrio
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Cinnabar'
Cinnabar, in Hinduism, is a bright red mineral primarily composed of mercury sulfide, crucially used in traditional medicine formulations for creating pills aimed at curing various ailments, including sannipatika fever.
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 4: Iatrochemistry
(1) A substance mentioned as part of the mixture used in the medicinal preparation.[1] (2) A mineral often used in traditional medicine, noted here as one of the ingredients necessary for making the medicine.[2] (3) A mineral ingredient that is part of the medicine formulation.[3] (4) A mineral that is used in conjunction with mercury to create the medicinal mixture.[4] (5) A mineral consisting of sixty parts, used as an ingredient in the preparation of pills.[5]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 1: Initiation, Mercury and Laboratory
(1) A bright red mineral from which mercury can be extracted.[6] (2) A mineral utilized in the alchemical processes, particularly in the transformation of metals.[7]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances
(1) A red mineral also referred to as hingula, included in the mixture used in the incineration process.[8]