PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTION OF VISHAGHNA DRAVYAS FROM CHARAKOKTA MAHAKASHAYA IN DRUG INDUCED HEPATOTOXICITY W.S.R. TO GARAVISHJANYA SHOTHA – A REVIEW

Abstract

Most of the metabolic processes including detoxification of various drugs and xenobiotics occur in the liver. During the detoxification process the reactive chemical intermediates damage the liver. Drug induced hepatotoxicity causes liver damage due to oxidative stress. Hepatotoxicity is an injury to the liver that is associated with impaired liver functions and is a major concern at present. In this modern era, herbal antioxidants have attracted the researches due to its potential and efficacy against drug induced liver injury. Ayurveda describe Vishaghna dravyas as they possess the property to pacify the visha (Toxin) and prevent the reoccurrence of toxic manifestations. Hepatoprotective and Antioxidant activity of Vishaghna Dravyas in Charakokta Mahakashaya has been reported. Most of the Vishaghna dravyas shows pharmacological actions like Shothaghna, Raktashodhaka, Tridoshashamaka, Pittashamaka etc. Drug induced hepatotoxicity can be correlated with the concept of Garavisha in ayurveda. Shotha is one of the manifestations found in Garavisha as well as DIH. Hence Vishaghna dravyas in Charakokta Mahakashaya can be useful in Garavishajanya Shotha and DIH. This review article is an attempt to discuss role of Vishaghna dravyas from Charakokta Mahakashaya as Antioxidant and Garavishaghna in oxidative stress induced hepatotoxicity with special reference to Garavishjanya Shotha.