Efficacy of Jambu (Seed) as an Antidote in Kuchala Poisoning an Experimental Study

Abstract

Kuchala (Strychnos nux-vomica) is spinal poison which is also classified as Upavisha in Ayurveda.Various poisons have been described in Ayurveda along with their antidotes. Mode of action of these antidotes is not mentioned in texts. In Ayurvedic literature According to Basavrajeeyam under the heading of Vish-Prativishani, Jambu (seed) have been described to be possessing antidote action which may act by some way to counter toxicity of Kuchala. It is necessary to verify the efficacy of these antidotes on scientific parameters so that it can be useful in emergencies. Objectives: To establish the action and mechanism of Jambu (seed) against toxic effects of Kuchala on albino wistar rats. Methods: albino wistar rats were selected as an animal model and antidote potential of Jambu (seed) against Kuchala is evaluated by measuring convulsions and histopathological reports of brain and spinal cord. Results: Jambu (seed) administration before Kuchala poisoning reduced the toxic effects of Kuchala such as convulsion and histopathological changes in brain and spinal cord. Conclusion: From this study, we can conclude that Jambu (seed) can resist the toxic effects of Kuchala up to some extent.

Concept of Prativisha: An Unmapped Area

“…In result, Jambu seeds show 64.7% efficacy against convulsion and also show regenerative changes in histopathological study of spinal cord. [23]…”