Dermatological Manifestations of Visha: Insights from Ayurvedic Toxicology

Resumen

Background: In Ayurvedic literature, Visha refers to toxic substances of natural, animal, or synthetic origin, including plant toxins, envenomation, and chemical exposures. These agents can result in a wide spectrum of systemic and cutaneous manifestations. Dermatological involvement is often one of the earliest and most visible signs of Visha, yet it remains underexplored in both classical texts and modern clinical literature. This review aims to consolidate and analyse the dermatological manifestations associated with various types of Visha, correlating classical Ayurvedic descriptions with contemporary dermatological understanding.

Methods: A comprehensive review of classical Ayurvedic texts such as Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and relevant modern medical literature was conducted to identify dermatological features attributed to different types of Visha, including Sthavara (plant-based), Jangama (animal-based), and Kritrima (artificial toxins).

Results: Dermatological manifestations of Visha range from acute conditions such as erythema, vesiculation, urticaria, and necrosis to chronic outcomes like pigmentation, scarring, and dermal atrophy. Certain toxins show specific cutaneous patterns, aiding in clinical diagnosis. The review also discusses pathophysiological mechanisms, including dosha imbalances and histopathological correlations.

Conclusion: Exposure to Visha (Poison)is a very important factor for development of acute and chronic dermatological manifestations. Awareness of physicians regarding them can help in better understanding of pathophysiology of various dermatological conditions. Which can help in treatment of patients, ultimately leading to improvement in quality of life.