Taming the poisonous

More about the book

The book explores the transnational expressions of toxicity and safety within the context of Tibetan medicine, specifically the use of mercury since the 13th century. It delves into the "pharmaceutical nexus" of mercury in Sowa Rigpa, where Tibetan physicians engage with toxic substances, transforming them into effective remedies rather than avoiding them. Recent global discussions, spurred by the Minamata Convention, highlight the tensions between traditional practices and modern biomedical standards, raising questions about definitions of toxicity and safety in Asian medical traditions.