Chemical analysis of clay retorts found in the ancient city of Taxila has revealed traces of complex aromatic compounds and plant extracts. The findings suggest that ancient Indian chemists were performing sophisticated steam distillation to create Ayurvedic medicines and perfumes as early as the 3rd century BCE.
The research identifies the use of sandalwood, camphor, and various Himalayan herbs, indicating a well-established trade network for medicinal precursors. This study provides concrete archaeological evidence for the advanced scientific practices described in early Sanskrit medical texts.