Rasa-shastra–shalya tantra interface in contemporary ayurvedic surgery: A critical evidence synthesis of pharmaceutical standardization, kshara-based parasurgical interventions, rasaushadhi and postoperative therapeutics

Rasa-Shastra and Shalya Tantra represent two specialized domains of Ayurveda with potentially complementary roles in clinical practice. Shalya Tantra encompasses surgical and parasurgical procedures, wound management and postoperative care, whereas Rasa-Shastra deals primarily with the pharmaceutical processing and therapeutic application of metals, minerals and potent herbo-mineral preparations. Their interface is particularly relevant to Kshara karma, Kshara Sutra therapy, anorectal disorders and selected aspects of wound management. This narrative review examines classical concepts and contemporary clinical evidence concerning Kshara, Kshara Sutra, Bhagandara, Arsha, Parikartika and postoperative care, together with pharmaceutical standardization and safety considerations of Rasa-Shastra preparations.