Toll Free Helpline (India): 1800 1234 070

Rest of World: +91-9810852116

Free Publication Certificate

Vol. 6, Issue 12 (2017)

Exploring the hidden potential of Arka (Calotropis procera Linn. & Calotropis gigantea Linn.), an Upavisha in the field of toxicology

Author(s):
Dr. Rukma CK, Dr. Shanti R Nair, Dr. Divya KM and Dr. Ittoop J Ancheril
Abstract:
In Ayurveda, Upavisha are the group of drugs which are less toxic in nature and not so lethal but produces toxic symptoms on contact or on consumption. Arka is a well-known medicinal plant in Indian system of medicine and also it is one among the Upavishas. According to Charaka Acharya, Even an acute poison can become an excellent medicine if administered properly & On other hand even most useful medicine can act like a poison if handled incorrectly. Unique methodology of using semi-poisonous plants in treatment has shown good outcome in therapeutics. The drug Arka is an important ingredient of various classical vishahara yogas in clinical practice since ages. It is included under Bhedaniya (Vagbhata) Vamanopaga, Svedopaga (Charaka), Arkadi, Adhobhagahara Gana (Susruta) and also included under Guduchyadi Osadhi varga (Bhavaprakash). This review article includes overall information about plant Arka, it’s Botanical description, toxicological aspect, management, medico-legal aspect and therapeutic traditional uses and Arka containing Agada yogas mentioned in Keraleeya Visha Vaidya Granthas.
Pages: 183-187  |  1801 Views  699 Downloads


The Pharma Innovation Journal
How to cite this article:
Dr. Rukma CK, Dr. Shanti R Nair, Dr. Divya KM, Dr. Ittoop J Ancheril. Exploring the hidden potential of Arka (Calotropis procera Linn. & Calotropis gigantea Linn.), an Upavisha in the field of toxicology. Pharma Innovation 2017;6(12):183-187.

Call for book chapter