Rasāyana (रसायन) is a Pali and Sanskrit word literally meaning path (ayana) of essence (rasa). It is an early ayurvedic medical term referring to techniques for lengthening lifespans and invigorating the body. It is one of the eight areas of medicine in Sanskrit literature. In Vedic alchemical context, "rasa" also translates to "metal or a mineral" History The more general name for the Indian science of alchemy or proto-chemistry is Rasaśāstra (रसशास्त्र in Sanskrit), or "The Science of Mercury," in Nepali, Marathi, Hindi, Kannada and several other languages. Early Indian alchemical texts discuss the use of prepared forms of mercury or cinnabar (see samskaras). However, there is also ample mention of the preparation of medical tinctures in the early science of Indian alchemy. Significant progress in alchemy was made in ancient India. An 11th-century Persian chemist and physician named Abū Rayhān Bīrūnī reported "[the Indians] have a science similar to alchemy which is quite peculiar to them. They call it Rasâyana, a word composed with rasa, i.e., gold. It means an art which is restricted to certain operations, drugs, and compound medicines, most of which are taken from plants. Its principles restore the health of those who were ill beyond hope, and give back youth to fading old age..." Two famous examples were Nagarjunacharya and Nityanadhiya. Nagarjunacharya , was one of the most prominent chemists in the history of Indian alchemy. He ran many experiments in his laboratory known as the "Rasashala". His book, Rasaratanakaram is a famous example of ancient Indian medicine, in which he describes the procedure of transmuting base metals like mercury, into gold. Due to his great contributions and insight in chemistry, he was appointed as chancellor in the university of Nalanda. From the 14th century onwards, many materials from rasāyana and rasaśāstra were translated and integrated in the Persian texts written by Muslim scholars in South Asia (Speziale 2019). Aim and types Rasayana therapy enriches rasa with nutrients to help one attain longevity, memory, intelligence, health, youthfulness, excellence of luster, complexion and voice, optimum development of physique and sense organs, mastery over phonetics, respectability and brilliance. Goals The historical aims of rasāyana were diverse, but the effects attributed to a treatment were typically either longevity, health, intellect, sexuality or magical abilities. Lifespan and ageing Lengthen the lifespan Stay young; stop and reverse ageing and its signs, like wrinkles and greying Health Renew or retain functions