Abstract

A REVIEW OF KUCHALA (STRYCHNOSNUX-VOMICA LINN): A POISNOUS PLANT, MEDICO- LEGAL ASPECTS AND ITS THERAPUTIC USES

Dr. Shaival Mishra*

ABSTRACT

Strychnos nux vomica (Family: Loganiaceae) is a widely distributed poisonous medicinal plant. Different parts of this plant mainly seeds have been used in traditional Indian systems of medicine. Although nux vomica is extremely poisonous, still it considered to be useful for treating many diseases such as paralytic and neuralgic affections, dyspepsia, itching, urinary disorders, joint pain, dysentery, emotional disorders, epilepsy, rheumatism and insomnia. Nux vomica is extremely toxic and this is attributed to the presence of alkaloids, mainly strychnine and brucine. Therefore, more attention should also be paid to minimize its toxic potential through advanced detoxification processes without altering the therapeutic potential. Different parts of this plant especially seeds and bark possess a wide variety of indications in traditional and folklore medicines of different countries. It has diverse clinical applications in traditional Indian (e.g., Ayurveda, Unani and Homeopathy) andChinese medicines. Presently, nux vomica is utilized in more than 60 formulations of Indian systems of medicine of which 30 formulations are used in the disorders of vata dosha.

Keywords: Strychnine, Karaskar, Kuchala.