International Journal of Ayurveda and Pharmaceutical Chemistry

19

Authors: Gharde Subhash R1* and Inchulkar S R2

In classical Sanskrit literature, Ayurveda was called "the science of eight components" (Sanskrit aṣṭāṅga) a classification that became canonical for Ayurveda. In Ayurvedic literature Upavisa are the group of drugs which were less toxic in nature and not so lethal but produce certain toxic symptoms on consumption or administrations. Our ancient Acharya suggests that the poison can become a very good medicine if it is administered properly. This review is a sincere attempt to summarize the information concerning about semi poisonous drugs described in Indian system of medicine in respect to their literary, pharmacological activity,their toxicological effect, fatal period, fatal dose, treatment, postmortem appearance and medicolegal aspect.