THE THERAPEUTIC AND TOXICOLOGICAL EFFECT OF KUPILU (STRYCHNOS NUX-VOMICA L.)- A REVIEW

Abstract

Kupilu (Strychnos nux-vomica L., family-Loganiaceae) is a poisonous herbal plant, also known as Kuchla in Ayurvedic samhitas and has been commonly used in Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia. It is also described in Surasadi gana of Sushruta and Amradi phala varga of Bhavprakasa. It is a deciduous tree which is widely distributed in India and found throughout tropical areas of India, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia and Malaysia. In this review, an endeavor has been made to explore the therapeutic utilities of Strychnos nux vomica and its poisoning effect as mentioned in Ayurveda. It is observed that seeds of Strychnos nux-vomica are used as an ingredient of compound formulations of Ayurvedic medicine, indicated for nervous debility, paralysis and weakness of limbs, sexual weakness, dyspepsia, dysentery and chronic rheumatism. Additionally, it is employed in the treatment of anemia, asthma, bronchitis, colic, intermittent fever, hysteria, etc in a specific therapeutic dose. In higher doses, it produces tetanic convulsions ultimately resulting in death. Kupilu has been described as a toxic plant in Ayurveda so certain Shodhan process of the seeds are considered mandatory before its administration.