Significance of Gairika
Gairika is a versatile substance referenced across various texts, including the Purana and Rasashastra. It is identified as red chalk used for plastering the shrine of Surya, offering healing benefits, as well as a mineral utilized in traditional Ayurvedic remedies. Gairika serves multiple roles, including as a key ingredient in therapeutic formulations, such as Laghu Suta Shekhara Rasa and Padadari ointments. Its healing properties and classifications further emphasize Gairika's importance in traditional medicine and wellness practices.
In Dutch: Gairika; In Finnish: Gairika; In Spanish: Gairika
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Gairika'
In Hinduism, Gairika denotes a versatile substance associated with purification processes, red chalk for Surya shrines, red ochre for color essence, and is important in mercurial operations, embodying significant spiritual and medicinal properties.
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 2: Minerals (uparasa)
(1) One of the substances that can be purified in the same manner as mentioned in the third process.[1] (2) An uparasas from Group II used in mercurial operations.[2] (3) Gairika is described as an essence, which is central to the discussion of its properties and uses.[3] (4) A substance that is purified through specific processes involving cow's milk or ghee.[4]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances
(1) Red ochre, a material used to obtain a specific essence of red color.[5]