Abstract

HERBAL ANTIDOTES FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF SNAKE BITE

Ashok Giri*, Swapnil Mundhe, Mileend Shimpi and Gujrathi D. S.

ABSTRACT

In India, 46900 peoples die from snake bite every year. Snake bite has been a major cause of mortality in Indian subcontinent. There are more than 3500 species globally, out of that 350 species are poisonous.[1] In India 270 species have been identified including 60 poisonous or harmful species. Poisonous species in India mainly includes Indian cobra, Indian krait, Russell’s viper, saw-scaled viper. Many cases of snake bite remains unreported in rural areas.[2] In addition to mortality, some snakebite victim survive with permanent physical damage due to tissue necrosis, spat venom-opthalmia, persistent nerve damage and sometimes, psychological consequences. Because of issues relating to treatment costs, loss of earning capacity and ongoing disability, the economic impact of snakebite can be considerable. Thus the present review deals with the study of herbal antidotes. Herbal antidotes proves to be a boon in case of snakebite as it also works by improving immune system and treating further consequences of snake bite. It can literally make a difference between life and death. From a variety of literatures the data regarding botanical name of plants, parts used, dosage forms, route of administration, geographical locations etc. has been summarized. This will accelerates futuristic approaches for the development and use of herbal antidotes.

Keywords: Snakebite, species, Herbal Antidote.