Abstract

LITERATURE STUDY OF TOXIC HERBS IN SUSHRUT SAMHITA

Amruta Tembhurnikar*, Namrata Chouragade, Anand Tembhurnikar and Prafulla Fadnavis

Abstract

Ayurveda states that the universe is composed of Panchmahabhutas (five Basic elements) Including whole animal kingdom, plant kingdom as well as minerals also. These dravyas are classified on the basis of their beneficial and harmful effects on human body. Agad Tantra (toxicology) is a special branch of Ashtang Ayurveda (8branches of Ayurveda) which specially deals with the study of poisonous dravyas, their toxic effects and their management in detail. This article is aimed to explore the Visha (poison) and their toxic part specially stated in Sushruta Samhita. Sushruta Samhita emphasizes on the Vishakta Anga (toxic part) of the poisonous herbs. This literature review will help the learners to identify the toxicity some of the routinely used herbs which are not included in Mahavisha and Upvisha.

Keywords: Agad Tantra, Vishakta Anga, Mahavisha, Upvisha.