Abstract

Abstract

Abstract: Agadtanta is one of the significant branches of Astang Ayurveda. Aim and utility of Agadtantra is same as Ayurveda i.e. Protection of healthy individuals from poisons and management of individuals afflicted from poisons. The very sight of one that causes vishada (depression) among the living beings and after entering the body causes the vitiation of Dhatus ultimately kills the healthy person is defined as visha. Visha dravyas (poisonous drugs) are used in various Ayurvedic formulations due to their quick effectiveness in relatively smaller dose in spite of their reported side effects. While using any drug it is important that the physician should be aware of its properties and it should be administered with the treating intensions. The real difference between a medicine and a poison is the intent with which it is given. An acute poison can become an excellent drug if it is properly administered, and similarly even a drug, if not properly administered, becomes an acute poison Pharmacodynamics of vish dravyas  refers to the study of  its therapeutic benefits and toxicity. According to Ayurveda Guna (properties), Rasa, Virya, Vipaka and Prabhav is responsible factors for the specific action of a vish dravya. Visha dravya produces its effect by its action on oja which is final excellent essence of all Dhatus. In the present article, an attempt has been made to understand visha, its Pharmacodynamic Action in Ayurvedic parlance by presenting them in a single place.