The idea of mahavisha-upvisha shodhan in agadtantra: The ancient Indian knowledge system

Abstract

In contrast to other medical sciences, which only concentrate on the treatment of disorders and diseases, Ayurveda is the oldest medical science that mankind is aware of and primarily promotes good living and long life. There is proof that some Ayurvedic treatments, particularly those utilizing herbs, metals, minerals, or other substances, may carry significant hazards, such as poisoning. A component of Ashtanga Ayurveda called Agadtantra has a special place in the study of poisons and aids in shielding people from their effects. According to certain Acharyas, not all therapeutic plants are safe to use because they may contain toxic and hazardous phytoconstituents. Certain plants are poisonous, known as Visha and Upvisha. To minimize the lethal effects of visha Dravya, several purifying procedures should be carried out to lessen their harmful effects. Therefore, it is crucial to comprehend the Shodhana of Visha and Upvisha described in Ayurvedic texts. To better comprehend how to purify Vishadravya to prevent fatal effects and to boost patient confidence in Ayurveda, this page describes the ways for doing so that are referenced in Ayurvedic texts. Utilizing the purifying process, dravya, which had medical significance but was rarely utilized due to its lethal effects, began to be employed more frequently.