Importance of Upvisha Dravya in Ayurveda

Upvisha Dravya refers to a category of semi-poisonous medicinal plants in Ayurveda that hold a crucial place in therapeutic applications. The term ‘Upvisha’ is derived from ‘Upa’ (sub) and ‘Visha’ (poison), indicating that these substances possess toxic properties but can be used as medicine when purified and processed properly. These herbs have potent pharmacological actions and are often used in the treatment of chronic diseases, skin disorders, metabolic imbalances, and pain management.

Upvisha Dravyas play a significant role in Rasa-Shastra (Ayurvedic alchemy) and are often employed in the preparation of Rasayana (rejuvenative) and Rasoushadhis (herbomineral formulations). Due to their sharp potency (Teekshna Virya), detoxifying (Shodhana) properties, and ability to balance doshas, they serve as crucial remedies in Ayurvedic medicine.

Dosha-Dhatu Physiology of Upvisha Dravya

The physiological action of Upvisha Dravyas is deeply linked with the balance of Tridosha (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and the regulation of Sapta Dhatus (seven body tissues). These herbs exhibit strong biological activity and must be carefully purified to ensure their safe usage.

1. Effect on Doshas:

• Vata Dosha: Certain Upvisha Dravyas help regulate excessive Vata, particularly in conditions related to pain, nerve disorders, and joint stiffness.

• Pitta Dosha: Many Upvisha herbs have a cooling and detoxifying effect, reducing inflammatory conditions and excessive heat in the body.

• Kapha Dosha: These herbs help in breaking down excessive mucus, fat accumulation, and sluggish metabolism.

2. Impact on Dhatus (Tissues):

• Rasa Dhatu (Plasma): Detoxifies and removes accumulated toxins.

• Rakta Dhatu (Blood): Purifies the blood and helps in treating skin and circulatory disorders.

• Mamsa Dhatu (Muscle Tissue): Some Upvisha herbs help relieve muscle stiffness and enhance flexibility.

• Meda Dhatu (Fat Tissue): Helps in reducing excess fat accumulation and improving metabolic rate.

• Asthi Dhatu (Bone Tissue): Strengthens bone structure and supports joint health.

• Majja Dhatu (Nervous & Bone Marrow Tissue): Supports nervous system function and reduces nerve-related disorders.

• Shukra Dhatu (Reproductive Tissue): Certain Upvisha herbs are aphrodisiac and support reproductive health when used in proper formulations.

Pharmacological Aspects of Upvisha Dravya

Upvisha herbs exhibit diverse pharmacological properties that make them highly effective in treating various ailments. These properties include:

1. Vishaghna (Anti-toxic): Helps in neutralizing and eliminating toxins from the body.

2. Deepana (Digestive Stimulant): Aids in improving digestion and metabolism.

3. Shodhana (Purification): Used in detoxification therapies, particularly in blood disorders.

4. Krimighna (Anti-parasitic): Helps in eliminating harmful parasites from the digestive system.

5. Vedanasthapana (Analgesic): Reduces pain and inflammation in joint and muscular disorders.

6. Lekhana (Scraping Effect): Useful in reducing fat accumulation and treating obesity.

7. Balya (Strengthening): Supports immunity and enhances tissue strength when used appropriately.

Medicinal Herbs in Upvisha Dravya & Their Mode of Action

Several Upvisha herbs are well-documented in Ayurveda, particularly in Rasa-Shastra, for their potent therapeutic applications. Below are some of the most important ones, along with their specific actions:

1. Vatsanabha (Aconitum ferox)

• Rasa: Tikta, Katu

• Guna: Laghu, Teekshna

• Virya: Ushna

• Vipaka: Katu

• Actions:

  • Used in chronic pain and inflammatory conditions.

  • Works as an analgesic and nerve stimulant.

  • Must be purified properly before use due to its potent toxicity.

2. Dhatura (Datura metel)

• Rasa: Tikta, Kashaya

• Guna: Laghu, Ruksha

• Virya: Ushna

• Vipaka: Katu

• Actions:

  • Acts as a sedative and muscle relaxant.

  • Used in treating respiratory disorders like asthma.

  • Has psychoactive properties and must be administered carefully.

3. Karveer (Nerium indicum)

• Rasa: Tikta, Katu

• Guna: Laghu, Teekshna

• Virya: Ushna

• Vipaka: Katu

• Actions:

  • Useful in treating skin diseases and ulcers.

  • Possesses strong cardiotonic properties.

  • Requires proper detoxification before medicinal use.

4. Gunja (Abrus precatorius)

• Rasa: Tikta, Kashaya

• Guna: Guru, Teekshna

• Virya: Ushna

• Vipaka: Katu

• Actions:

  • Used in skin disorders and wound healing.

  • Helps in alleviating nerve-related pain.

  • Must undergo purification to remove toxic effects.

5. Arka (Calotropis gigantea)

• Rasa: Katu, Tikta

• Guna: Laghu, Teekshna

• Virya: Ushna

• Vipaka: Katu

• Actions:

  • Effective in treating respiratory conditions and digestive disorders.

  • Used externally for pain relief and skin ailments.

Diseases Treated by Upvisha Dravya

Due to their potent detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties, Upvisha herbs are used in managing several chronic and acute conditions:

1. Arthritis & Joint Disorders – Treated with Vatsanabha and Gunja.

2. Skin Diseases & Chronic Ulcers – Managed using Karveer and Arka.

3. Parasitic Infections – Treated with Dhatura and Gunja.

4. Respiratory Disorders (Asthma & Bronchitis) – Alleviated by Dhatura and Arka.

5. Pain Management & Neural Disorders – Benefited by Vatsanabha and Gunja.

Analysis of Upvisha Dravya as per Rasa-Shastra Principles

1. Rasa (Taste) Consideration:

• Predominantly Tikta (Bitter) & Katu (Pungent) – Indicating their strong detoxifying and metabolic-enhancing properties.

2. Guna (Properties) Analysis:

• Laghu (Light) & Teekshna (Sharp): Ensuring fast action in the body.

• Ruksha (Dry) & Snigdha (Oily): Depending on specific herbs, used in different conditions.

3. Virya (Potency) Consideration:

• Predominantly Ushna (Hot): Enhancing digestion, circulation, and detoxification.

4. Vipaka (Post-Digestive Effect):

• Katu Vipaka: Stimulating metabolic function and digestion.

Conclusion

Upvisha Dravya holds immense significance in Ayurveda for its ability to treat chronic conditions, eliminate toxins, and balance Tridosha. Despite their toxicity, these herbs provide powerful medicinal effects when properly purified and administered. Their role in Rasa-Shastra formulations and therapeutic applications highlights their value in Ayurvedic medicine, ensuring safe and effective healing.