Abstract

VISHAGHNA DRAVYA SHIRISHA (ALBIZIA LEBBECK) - A REVIEW ARTICLE

Ajay Kumar* and Jai Kumar Singh

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Abstract

Ayurveda is a science focused on holistic living, where most of the medicines used are derived from plants. A specialized branch of Ayurveda, known as Agadtantra (Toxicology), examines various methods of poisoning and their treatment. Different treatment modalities are employed for different cases of poisoning. One such method is the use of Agada (Antidotes), which are prepared by combining various anti-poisonous herbs. Shirisha (Albizia lebbeck) is an important herb recognized for its wide range of therapeutic effects. In classical texts, it is noted as one of the best Vishaghna (Anti-poison) drugs. The major treatises of Ayurveda, known as Bruhattrayee, detail numerous formulations of Shirisha for managing various types of poison, presenting it in both internal and external applications such as Lepa (Paste). This review aims to compile updated data on the properties of Vishghna Dravya (Anti-poison) Shirisha on the basis of its pharmacological activities. Scientific research has demonstrated its anti-histaminic, anti-allergic, anti-ulcer, hepatoprotective, and antibacterial effects. Therefore, it concludes that the perception of Shirisha as an anti-poisonous agent by our Acharyas (Teachers) is indeed supported by factual evidence, likely derived from their experimental studies at the time.

Keywords: Shirisha, Bruhattrayee, Agadtantra, Vishghna Dravya, Anti-poison, Toxicology.