VISHA CHIKITSA AND APARAJITHA: A CRITICAL PERSPECTIVE ON POISON MANAGEMENT IN ANCIENT MEDICINE

Agadatantra is the sixth branch of Ayurveda, primarily focused on the study and preparation of antipoisonous medicines, known as "Agada." These medicines are formulated by combining various drugs to counteract the effects of poison. Ayurveda describes several medicinal plants that are used to treat poisoning (Visha), one of which is Aparajita. In the Bhavprakash Nighantu and Kaiyadev Nighantu, Aparajita is referred to as "Vishapaha," meaning it alleviates toxins. In the Sushruta Samhita, it is included in the Arkadi Gana, a group of plants known for their toxin-eliminating properties. Pharmacologically, Aparajita has demonstrated several beneficial activities, including nephroprotective, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and antihistaminic effects. Its roots, flowers, seeds, and leaves are used for medicinal purposes, both internally and externally. This review aims to explore the antipoisonous formulations and activities of Aparajita(clitoria ternatea). Keywords: Vishapaha, Aparajitha, Agada, Clitoria Ternatea