* Dr. Sukriti Sharma, P.G. Scholar, Department of Agada Tantra, RGGPGAC, Paprola, H.P.
* Porf. (Dr). Jaram Singh, HOD, Dept. of Agada Tantra, RGGPGAC, Paprola, H.P.
Dr. Rajveer Singh, Asst. Professor, Dept. of Agada Tantra, RGGPGAC, Paprola, H.P.
*Corresponding author: [email protected]
Received on: 28-05-2022 Accepted: 11-05-2022 Corrected: 29-06-2022
Abstract: Background: Snake bites are common problem of India. 60 species are venomous but, maximum deaths happen after bites from big four including russell’s viper, saw-scaled viper, cobra and common krait. Lack of specific antivenom, inter- and intraspecific differences are major causes of deaths. So, does it mean other options are available? Agada tantra in Ayurveda deals with numbers of formulations including Mahagada to treat various poisons. Screening of literatures suggest their effectiveness in specific problems separately. Yet, guidelines of World health organization and Government of India emphasize on antivenom only. So, whether Mahagada is relevant at present time?
Materials and Methods: The systematic review was from various databases, books and websites of concerned departments.
Result: Snake classification was done. Common chemicals of Big four’s venom, common chemicals of Viperidae venom and common chemicals of Elapidae venom were noted. Reference of Mahagada with methods to make formulation and route of administration were noted. Mechanism of action of venoms of big four were screened with their clinical relevance. Compound-based pharmacological actions against specific clinical representations and chemicals of venoms were recorded.
Discussion and Conclusion: Complete efficacy of component drugs of Mahagada poses the questions as dose-dependent proofs of compounds were found and the percentage of compounds is important. Still, Mahagada is relevant in in snake bite of big four after giving antivenom for restoring the normal physiology.
Key words: Mahagada, Big four, Venom, Venomous snake, Snake bite, Viper, Cobra, Krait………