An experiemental study to evaluate the principle Trini Dravyani Nati Upayunjita w.s.r. to Kshara (Alkali)

Abstract

Background: In Charaka Samhita it has been mentioned that three medicinal substances viz. Pippali (Piper longum), Kshara (alkali) and Lavana (salt) can be used as emergency medicine, but they should not be consumed in excess (Ati Upayunjita). If they are consumed in excess quantity they will cause several adverse effects in the body. Hence in the present study Kshara has been evaluated in experimental animals in two different phases viz. acute administration at graded doses as part of acute toxicity study and sub-acute administration at fixed dose level, as part of sub-acute toxicity study, to assess the possible adverse effects if any. Objectives: To evaluate the acute and sub-acute toxic effect of Kshara in albino rats to establish the principle of Trini Dravyani Nati Upayunjita. Materials and Methods: Wister strain albino rats of either sex weighing between 150 - 200g body weights were used for experimental study. The experiment was carried out as per ‘Ayush Guidelines’ after the IAEC clearance. For Acute Toxicity - 9 Albino rats were used and for Sub-Acute Toxicity - 12 Albino rats were used. The dose calculation was done on the basis of body surface area ratio using the table of ‘Paget and Barnes rule’. Results: In Acute toxicity study no mortality and behavioral changes were observed when the drug Kshara was studied after two dose level i.e. TED X 5 and TED X 10. In Sub-acute study some behavioral changes (including cage side behavior) were observed. No mortality was observed in any of the groups. Discussion: Acute toxicity study of Kshara showed no immediate and evident toxic signs and mortality within 24 hours of observation. In Sub-acute toxicity study in all four groups, no mortality or evident toxic effects were observed, however some mild histopathological changes were observed in sub-acute study.