Praval (Coral) in Ayurveda

Praval (Coral) in Ayurveda

Classical Purification, Bhasma & Pishti Preparation, Traditional Uses

Praval (Coral) is described in Ayurveda as a red marine substance resembling the glow of the rising sun. Classical texts describe high-quality coral as deep red in color, smooth, free from pores or cracks, and dense in structure. Coral that is pale, rough, perforated, excessively light, or blackish is considered unsuitable for medicinal processing.

Modern observations note that coral formations are created in the ocean by tiny marine organisms. Over time, these structures accumulate and form coral masses. Coral is available in two primary forms:

  • Branch form (Shakha) – commonly used for Bhasma and Pishti preparation

  • Bead form (Dana)

For medicinal processing, branch coral is traditionally preferred.

Shodhana (Purification Method)

Method 1

Coral is placed in a Dola Yantra and subjected to steaming (Swedana) in Jayanti (Arani) juice or decoction for approximately three hours.

Method 2

Coral is soaked in warm water mixed with lemon juice for one prahar (approximately three hours), then washed and dried.

Praval Bhasma Preparation (Classical Method)

After purification:

  1. Coral is powdered using a mortar.

  2. The powder is triturated thoroughly with Aloe vera (Kumari) juice.

  3. Pellets (Tikdi) are prepared and dried.

  4. These are sealed in earthen containers (Sharava Samputa).

  5. Subjected to Gajaputa heating.

Three Puta cycles with Kumari juice generally yield a fine white Bhasma.

If the Bhasma is not perfectly white after the first heating, additional Puta cycles are given.

Alternative Preparation Method

Purified red coral is powdered and triturated with:

  • Calotropis latex (Aak) or

  • Aloe vera juice

Pellets are formed, dried, sealed, and subjected to Gajaputa. After cooling, further trituration may be done with lemon juice and Chandana-based distillate before final storage.

Praval Pishti (Including Chandraputi Praval)

For Pishti preparation:

  • Finely powdered purified coral is triturated with rose water continuously for several hours daily for 14 days.

  • During nights, the mortar is kept under open moonlight.

  • The lunar exposure gives rise to Chandraputi Praval, considered more soothing in nature.

After completion, the soft Pishti is dried in shade and stored.

Classical Dosage (As Mentioned in Traditional Texts)

  • Praval Pishti: 1–6 Ratti

  • Praval Bhasma: 1–4 Ratti

Traditionally administered with honey, pomegranate juice, Amla preparations, Chyawanprash, milk, or other suitable Anupana as described in classical references.

(Dosage should only be determined by a qualified Ayurvedic physician.)

Traditional Properties (Guna & Karma)

Classical Ayurvedic descriptions attribute the following properties:

  • Pitta-shamaka (Pacifies aggravated Pitta)

  • Dahashamana (Helps reduce burning sensations)

  • Kaphahara (Balances Kapha in certain contexts)

  • Deepana & Pachana (Supports digestive fire)

  • Raktaprasadaka (Supports healthy blood function)

  • Kanti-vardhaka (Supports complexion)

  • Balya (Strength-supporting)

Pishti is described as more soothing compared to Bhasma, and Chandraputi form is considered even gentler in action.

Classical Indications Mentioned in Texts

Traditional Ayurvedic literature describes the use of Praval preparations in conditions such as:

  • Pitta-dominant fevers

  • Burning sensations and excessive heat

  • Acid-related digestive disturbances

  • Cough (especially Pitta-associated)

  • Blood-related disorders

  • General debility

  • Pediatric weakness conditions

  • Eye discomfort associated with Pitta imbalance

  • Certain chronic respiratory conditions

  • Heart-related weakness

  • Supportive role in long-standing fevers

In pediatric contexts, classical texts mention its use during teething-related digestive disturbances and weakness.

Chandraputi Praval – Classical Significance

Chandraputi preparation is specifically noted for:

  • Cooling nature

  • Support in Pitta-dominant disorders

  • Gentle digestive support

  • Use in conditions involving heat, irritability, and burning sensations

Important Note

Praval Bhasma and Pishti are classical Ayurvedic preparations that require:

  • Proper purification (Shodhana)

  • Correct incineration process (Marana / Puta)

  • Strict supervision by qualified Ayurvedic experts

Self-medication with mineral preparations is not advised.

Conclusion

Praval holds an important place in classical Ayurvedic mineral formulations. Whether prepared as Bhasma or Pishti, it is traditionally valued for its cooling, Pitta-balancing, and supportive properties. The Chandraputi method further enhances its soothing attributes according to traditional descriptions.

For authentic classical formulations prepared under expert supervision, always consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner.