CONCEPTUAL STUDY ON THE AYURVEDIC REVIEW ON KEETA VISHA AND ITS CHIKITSA

Vd. Ruchika Ahirrao*, Vd. Amrapali Nikam, Vd. Rachna Patil, Vd. Deepali Aher, Vd. Sagar Narode and Vd. Sachin Patil

ABSTRACT

Ayurveda, an ancient Indian medical system with eight important branches, includes Agadatantra, which focuses on identifying, preventing, diagnosing, and treating manifestations caused by various poisons: Sthavara Visha (static poisons), Jangama Visha (moving poisons), Krithrima Visha (artificial poisons), and Khanija Visha (mineral poisons). This branch draws from the teachings of Acharyas Charaka, Susrutha, Vagbhata, Madhavakara, Bhavamishra, and regional texts. These texts discuss the origins of different types of poisons, such as Sthavara Visha (e.g., plants like Vatasanbha), Jangama Visha (e.g., animals like snakes and insects), and Krithrima Visha (e.g., artificial or man-made poisons). Among Jangama Visha, Keeta Visha, related to arthropods, is a significant category, with Acharyas categorizing it into four groups and identifying 67 different types of insects. Although arthropods constitute a large part of living animals, only a small percentage of insect species are harmful to humans. Keeta Visha can lead to various symptoms, from localized effects to severe systemic issues, including swelling, lumps, rashes, itching, and even death. Diagnosing and treating Keeta Visha can be challenging due to the variety of insects and regional variations in their effects. This article aims to compile the signs and symptoms of Keeta Visha and the treatment approaches mentioned in various classical texts.

Keywords: Agadtantra, Sthavar Visha, Jangam Visha, Keeta Visha.