Shodhana of vishadravya W.S.R.T. vatsanabha shodhana and bhallataka shodhana

A substance which causes sadness to the world is also called as Visha (Poison). Plants are the prime source of medicine in Ayurveda. Several compounds have been isolated from medicinal plants and introduced for the service of mankind; however most of these medicines have been withdrawn due to their toxicity or side-effects. In Ayurveda, the very first stage of purification is called Shodhana. Chemical purification is different from this purification. In chemical purification, there is only elimination of foreign matter, however, Shodhana eliminates harmful matter, modifies or converts undesirable properties to desirable, enhanced therapeutic actions. Current study shows the changes in vishdravya after shodhana. Toxic content of Vatsanabha (Aconite, monks hood) is alkaloids which varies from 0.63 – 4.7%. The total Alkaloid in Ashuddha Vatsanabha was 0.45% w/w and after Shodhana in Gomutra, it was reduced to 0.08% w/w. Mild oil remained in Bhallataka (Semicarpus Anacardium, marking nut) after shodhana and phonolic constituents positive in ashuddha Bhallataka which turns to negative after shodhana done by Ishtikachurna (brick powder), gomutra (cow urine), godugdha (cow milk) and narikeljala (coconut water). So the Shodhanais an important procedure for vishadravya to get desired effects from them.