Exploring the Parallels between Cumulative Toxicity of Newspaper Ink and Dushi

Objectives: Acharya Sushruta classified Dushi Visha as a poison from inanimate, animate, or artificial sources, known for its chronic accumulation in the body, leading to gradual deterioration. Newspapers are commonly used for food packaging but pose a risk of ink contamination, potentially causing various health issues over time. This review explores parallels between the cumulative toxicity of newspaper ink and Dushi Visha. Data source:The review examined Dushi Visha from Bruhatrayee and Laghutrayee, while health effects of newspaper ink were reviewed using e-resources like Google Scholar and PubMed. Review Methods: This review links newspaper ink's toxicity with Ayurvedic Dushi Visha, merging classical texts and modern health research. Results: Newspaper ink, with lead, naphthylamines, aromatic hydrocarbons, and AhR agonists, leads to neurotoxicity, cardiovascular diseases, kidney diseases, cancers, liver failure or death. These mirror Dushi Visha's effects, linking newspaper ink to its cumulative toxicity. Conclusion: Dushi Visha prevention and treatment can guide efforts to reduce cumulative toxicity from newspaper ink. Awareness among food businesses, small hotels, and consumers about the risks of using newspapers for food packaging is crucial. Regulatory measures should promote safer alternatives for packaging materials.