Abstract

The first comprehensive analysis of Asian Medical Alchemy, this book describes the use of herbo-mineral-metal based medicines as used in some of the world's oldest healing traditions. It offers a detailed exploration of Âyurvedic medicinal purification practices that seek to enhance the therapeutic potential of materials, metals and gemstones, as well as offering a concise overview of traditional and modern equipment and methods used in the manufacture of these medicines.

The author's unique and fascinating account of the hidden alchemical arts also explains some of the historical background behind the on-going quest amongst Asian alchemists for immortality.

Rasa Shastra: The Hidden Art of Medical Alchemy is a great introductory book on the concepts behind this time-honoured traditional medicine from Asia. Easy-to-read, profusely illustrated and presented from the standpoint of personal experience, I think any reader would gain a great deal of knowledge from this book
Dr Tasnim Munshi, Senior Lecturer in Chemistry, University of Bradford, UK
Andrew Mason is an expert in Eastern Alchemy. He started studying holistic medicine 20 years ago, completing his training as an Ayurveda practitioner in 2006. He then undertook a unique and intensive apprenticeship in the East, learning the closely guarded processes involved in the manufacturing of these ancient remedies. Since his return to the U.K., Andrew has undertaken the task of recording and cataloguing these traditional processes, preserving these techniques which in some cases would have remained as tenuous oral traditions only.
An in-depth and informative read that tackles the complexities of Rasa Shastra (Indian Alchemy). Andrew presents the precepts of this ancient science in a very readable and concise way, helping demystify the processes conceived by the masters of this ancient science. From introductory to advanced concepts, this book aims to guide the reader through the historical aspects of the work to its modern day equivalents. Rasa Shastra: The Hidden Art of Medical Alchemy remains an illustrative, interesting and insightful journey, for those seeking knowledge into this lesser understood science of Ayurveda. Highly recommended as an essential text for students of Ayurveda, and an excellent book for those interested in the alchemy of Ayurveda, particularly the western reader.
Dr Mauroof M. Athique, MD(Ayur), PhD., Director, College of Ayurveda (UK), Milton Keynes
An extraordinary book. Andrew Mason has succeeded in documenting the knowledge from this secret oral tradition that would otherwise have been lost forever.
Philip Weeks, master herbalist, acupuncturist and author of Make Yourself Better and Painful Bladder Syndrome