A Review on Vishavaidya Jyotsnika

Abstract

Agada Tantra is one among the eight branches of Ayurveda. Apart from samhitas (classical texts), there are many text books dealing with agada tantra (toxicology) written in various regional Indian languages. Some of them have been translated to English, but many are yet to see light. Kerala which is rich in its Ayurveda legacy has made much contribution to the subject. Vishavaidya Jyotsnika is one such textbook which gives immense knowledge about the practice of vishachikitsa. Dhootha lakshanas in cases of visha (poison) and the concept of amritakala and vishakala has been explained only in this book. Pashu chikitsa in cases of poisoning has also been explained here. This text contributes largely to the practice as well research in agada tantra. This article is based on the text Vishavaidya Jyotsnika an English Translation published by Department of Agada Tantra, Vaidyaratnam P.S Varier Ayurveda College, Kottakkal, Kerala.