Comprehensive Literary Study of Vatsanabha (Aconitum Ferox): A Toxic Dravya in Classical Ayurvedic Texts

Abstract

Vatsanabha is one of the most potent Sthavara Visha Dravyas (plant-based poisons) extensively described in classical Ayurvedic texts. Despite its toxicity, Vatsanabha has been therapeutically utilized after appropriate purification (Shodhana). This article presents a comparative literary study of Vatsanabha as described in Charaka Samhita,Sushruta Samhita, and Astanga Hridaya, focusing on its nomenclature, properties, therapeutic uses, toxicological aspects, and purification methods.