A compiled review on the concept of Keeta Visha and its Chikitsa

Abstract

Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine having eight important branches. Agadatantra is one amongst the eight-fold branches of Ayurveda that deals with identification, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of various manifestations caused by Sthavara Visha, Jangama Visha, Krithrima Visha and Khanija Visha. Acharya’s Charaka, Susrutha, Vagbhata, Madhavakara, Bhavamishra, other classics and regional texts have recited concerning the origin of Visha, Sthavara Visha (Vatasanbha, Kupeelu, Ahiphena etc.) Jangama Visha (Sarpa, Vruschika, Keeta, Loota, Alaraka etc.) and Krithrima Visha (Gara Visha and Dushi Visha). Acharya’s have described Keeta Visha under Jangama Visha and classified under four groups and elucidated 67 different types of Keeta. These are the largest groups of arthropods, which constitute 80% of all living animals, only 3% of the insect species are harmful to humans. Keeta Visha causes local symptoms to severe systemic manifestations like Shopha, Granthi, Visrapa, Karnika, Kitibha in the human beings, even death. Depending on its variety, diagnosis and treatment of Keeta Visha is found to be very difficult because these varieties are not yet properly identified and besides, regional variations of these Keetas expresses very differently. Here an attempt is made to collect signs and symptoms of Keeta Visha and their treatment modalities mentioned in different classical texts.