We all know about the chemistry laboratory (Rasashala) . It's present in schools, colleges and other research institutes. Chemistry laboratory is a well organised and well maintained place which is used for conducting various important experiments.
You will be surprised to know that long long ago our ancient Indian rishis also used such a well maintained and well organized laboratory known as Rasashala.
Given below is a slokha from Rasaratnasamucchaya 7 (1-5) and its translation which describes the layout of a chemical laboratory.........
A laboratory is to be established in a region where abounds in medical plants., water and free from all interferences. The building should be well protected with high boundary walls. The laboratory is to be furnished with a variety of equipments. The presiding deity, Rasabhairava made of mercury is to be installed in the east. The furnace should be arranged in the southeast. Stone implements should be kept in the south. In the southwest, apparatus for cutting, slicing, etc., should be housed. In the west, washing and cleaning should be arranged. The northwest is reserved for drying operations. Metallic investigations may be carried out in the north. The northeast is reserved for preserving and storing the preparations made in the laboratory.
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