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: 

 Course Registration Fee  is  USD 299. 

At VSVV, we support excellence by providing merit-based scholarships and fee waivers to deserving students.

VIP Variant four  individual Zoom sessions of 45 minutes to 1 hour each

Course Fee : USD 1277

We have limited seats for the VIP Variant.  To apply for VIP variant, submit your consent here with explanation as to why you consider yourself qualified for the VIP variant of the program. Selected applicants will be invited for personal   Zoom session, after which final admission decisions will be taken and and the selected applicants will be informed. 

Course Start Dates:

All digital correspondence and video courses will be offered four times a year, scheduled in alignment with the Vedic Calendar.

1. Uttarāyaṇa Period (Winter Solstice):  Dec. 21 to  20 March

2. Devayāna Period (Vernal Equinox): 21 March to 20 June

3. Dakṣiṇāyana Period (Summer Solstice): 21 June to 22 Sept.

4. Pitṛyāna period (Autumn Equinox): 23 Sept. to 20 Dec.

Note: Course access will remain open only for the specified duration. Participants are advised to complete and access all course materials within this period, as access will not be available once the course window closes.

Registration will  open soon

•  Those who want to participate in the course can register hereunder: