Course Title: Vedic Chemistry

Course Code: VC -001

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisites:None (basic familiarity with chemistry and/or Rasaśāstra preferred)

Course Description:

This course delves into the chemistry concepts as presented in the Vedas and related ancient Indian texts. Based on interpretations from scholars and researchers in the field, it explores theories and principles related to elements, compounds, reactions, and chemical processes as described in Vedic literature. The course aims to bridge ancient wisdom with modern scientific understanding.

Course Objectives:

• By the end of this course, students will be able to:
• Understand fundamental concepts of Vedic Chemistry
• Identify verses and passages in Vedic texts related to chemical phenomena
• Explore theories on the nature of substances, reactions, and transformations from a Vedic perspective
• Compare and contrast Vedic Chemistry with modern chemistry theories
• Discuss the relevance of Vedic Chemistry in contemporary scientific discourse

Modules & Weekly Schedule:

Module I: Introduction to Vedic Chemistry (Week 1)

• Overview of Vedic sciences and their approach to understanding the chemical world
• Key concepts: Dravya, Guna, Karma, and their relation to chemistry

Module II: Elements and Compounds in the Vedas (Weeks 2–3)

• Theories on the origin and classification of elements
• Descriptions of compounds and their properties
• Concepts of atomic structure and bonding in Vedic chemistry

Module III: Chemical Reactions and Processes (Weeks 4–5)

• Types of chemical reactions described in Vedic texts
• The role of fire (Agni) and water (Jala) in chemical transformations
• Theories on catalysis and chemical equilibrium

Module IV: Alchemy and Medicinal Chemistry (Week 6)

• The principles of alchemy (Rasayana) in Vedic tradition
• The use of herbs and minerals in medicinal chemistry
• Formulas and processes for preparing Ayurvedic medicines

Module V: Cosmochemistry and the Origin of Life (Weeks 7–8)

• The chemical composition of the universe according to Vedic cosmology
• Theories on the origin of life (Jeeva) from a chemical perspective
• The role of elements and compounds in the evolution of living beings

Reading:

Texts on Yoga and Vedanta philosophies

Module VI: Vedic Metallurgy and Material Science (Weeks 9–10)

• Techniques for extracting and processing metals in ancient India
• The properties and uses of various metals and alloys
• Theories on the structure and properties of materials

Reading:

Texts on metallurgy and material science from ancient India

Module VII: Environmental Chemistry in Vedic Texts (Weeks 11–12)

• Discussion on environmental principles in Vedic texts
• Examination of texts referencing the importance of clean air and water
• Theories about maintaining ecological balance

Module VIII: Synthesis & Modern Implications (Weeks 13–14)

• Comparative overview of Vedic Chemistry with modern chemistry
• Discussions on the limitations and potential of Vedic Chemistry
• The relevance of Vedic Chemistry in understanding the nature of substances and reactions

Required Text

Texts on Rasashastra and Ayurveda

Texts on Rasashastra and Bhaishajya Kalpana

Researchers in environmental science

Hindu Chemistry

Course Fees: 

1. All live online courses are offered free of charge. Participants are welcome to make voluntary donations at our donation page during or after the course to support its continuation and delivery.

2. All digital correspondence and pre-recorded video courses are offered for a nominal fee to support digitization efforts and associated operational costs.

Registration and Commencement of Course:

• Live online course: Registration is required to enroll. Once 60 registrations are received for a particular course, the start date will be announced on the portal. We encourage you to regularly check the portal for updates.
• Digital correspondence and Pre-recorded Video courses: Registration is required to enroll. Upon successful enrollment, the course will begin promptly.