Abstract

EVALUATION OF THE ANTIDOTAL POTENTIAL OF HEM GAIRIKA (RED OCHRE) AGAINST ARKA KSHEERA (CALOTROPIS SPP. LATEX)-INDUCED TOXICITY IN ALBINO MICE

Dr. Mamata Adhao*, Dr. Abhijit Kawale

Abstract

Background: Arka (Calotropis gigantea/procera), classified as an Upavisha (moderately toxic herb), possesses toxic latex (Arka Ksheera) containing potent cardiac glycosides. Hem Gairika (Red Ochre), traditionally described in Ayurvedic texts like Rasajalanidhi, is recognized for its detoxifying properties and has been suggested as a potential antidote for Ark (Calotropis) poisoning. Objectives: To experimentally evaluate the antidotal effect of Hem Gairika in an in vivo animal model of Arka Ksheera toxicity. Materials and Methods: Latex of Calotropis spp. was collected and used to induce toxicity in Swiss albino mice. Hem Gairika was procured, purified using Goghrita (cow ghee), and administered orally in two doses (19.5 mg/kg and 39 mg/kg). Mice were divided into four groups: Control, Arka toxicity only and two treatment groups with Hem Gairika at different doses. Animals were monitored for 15 days post-dosing. Parameters such as body temperature, convulsions, pupil dilation, survival rate and other toxic symptoms were recorded and statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA, Dunn’s test, and Chi-square test. Results: Arka Ksheera produced significant toxic effects including convulsions, salivation, dilated pupils, and increased mortality. Administration of Hem Gairika, especially at the higher dose, significantly delayed the onset of convulsions (p < 0.01), pupil dilation (p < 0.0001) and improved survival rates although the latter was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Reduction in symptoms like salivation and irregular respiration was observed in the treated groups. Conclusion: The study provides preliminary evidence supporting the antidotal role of Hem Gairika in mitigating acute toxicity caused by Arka Ksheera.

Keywords: Arka Ksheera, Hem Gairika, Upavisha, Antidote, Albino mice.