Abstract

SCOPE OF AGADATANTRA IN ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO JANAPADODHWANSA

Dr. Anjum M. Shaikh*

Abstract

The escalation of global industrialization has made environmental degradation a primary driver of both acute and chronic human pathologies. Modern public health systems struggle to contain the multi-systemic impact of chemical, atmospheric, and aquatic toxins. This review examines contemporary ecological pollution through the classical Ayurvedic paradigms of Janapadodhwansa (epidemic community devastation) and Dushi Visha (latent, bioaccumulative toxicity), establishing a comprehensive therapeutic framework utilizing the specialized branch of Agadatantra. A comprehensive analysis of classical texts— predominantly the Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya —was cross-referenced with modern toxicological data on heavy metals, persistent organic pollutants (POPs), and atmospheric particulate matter. The classical four pillars of environmental corruption (Vayu, Jala, Desha, and Kala) map accurately onto modern air, water, soil, and climate crises. Furthermore, modern environmental toxicants exhibit the precise insidious, slow-acting, and tissue-binding dynamics characteristic of Dushi Visha. Agadatantra offers scalable public health methodologies that extend beyond acute envenomation management. By incorporating Vishaghna (antitoxic) formulations, systemic Panchakarma detoxification, and Ritucharya (seasonal protocols), Ayurveda provides a holistic blueprint to mitigate xenobiotic burdens and enhance community resilience against modern environmental hazards.

Keywords: Agadatantra, Environmental Toxicology, Janapadodhwansa, Dushi Visha, Xenobiotics, Public Health Ayurveda.