Brass Bronze Vessels for Medicine Storage
Brass Bronze Vessels for Medicine Storage (Sanskrit: Pittala Patra / Kamsya Patra) is an instrument used in therapeutic vessels. Vessels made of brass (Pittala - copper + zinc alloy) or bronze (Kamsya - copper + tin alloy) used for storing, preparing, and dispensing Ayurvedic medicines. Each metal alloy has specific therapeutic properties attributed in Rasashastra.
| Sanskrit name | Pittala Patra / Kamsya Patra |
|---|---|
| Ayurvedic category | Therapeutic Vessels |
Vessels made of brass (Pittala - copper + zinc alloy) or bronze (Kamsya - copper + tin alloy) used for storing, preparing, and dispensing Ayurvedic medicines. Each metal alloy has specific therapeutic properties attributed in Rasashastra.
Where is it described in the classical texts?
Rasaratna Samuchaya and Rasa Tarangini describe properties of various metal alloys. Charaka Samhita Sutrasthana Chapter 27 discusses effects of different vessel materials on stored substances.
How is it used traditionally?
Storage of medicated oils (Taila), ghees (Ghrita), decoctions (Kashaya/Kwatha), and other liquid Ayurvedic preparations. Kamsya (bronze) is especially recommended for eating and drinking to balance Pitta and purify blood.
Traditional materials
- Brass (Pittala) - copper + zinc
- Bronze/Bell-metal (Kamsya) - copper + tin
- Copper (Tamra)
Modern variants
- Tinned brass vessels (Kalai coating inside)
- Stainless steel storage vessels
- Glass-lined metal containers
Regulatory status
- India Cdsco: Not classified as medical devices. Subject to food-grade vessel standards.
- Us Fda: Subject to food contact material regulations if used for consumables.
- Eu Mdr: Not classified as medical devices.
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