Abstract

LOOTA VISHA (SPIDER POISON):- AN AYURVEDIC REVIEW

*Dr. Chandan Bhimrao Khairkar and Dr. Asmita Mangesh Narkar

ABSTRACT

Agadtantra is a branch which deals with visha (poison) its manifestation and its treatment. Two types of visha i.e. akritrim & kritrim visha are explained in Agadtantra. Sthavar visha (plant origin) & Jangama visha (animal origin) are two types of akritrim visha. Acharya sushruta in kalpasthana of his sushruta samhita, and Acharya vagbhata in uttartantra of his work ashtangahrudaya and in other classics and regional text have narrated regarding the origin of visha & loota visha. Agadtantra has simplified approach towards lootas (spiders) and has included the classification, clinical feature (general & specific) and its treatment protocol. Acharya sushruta described loota visha under jangam visha & explained 16 types of loota in this article an attempt is made to conceptualize spider envenomation according to Ayurveda which will help not only for differential diagnosis of spider bites but also the easy availability of herbal medicine treatment.

Keywords: visha, Jangam visha, poison, spider, loota, Agadtantra.