Sub-Poisons — Classification

(Sub-poisons)
Sanskrit: उपविष • Botanical: Various sub-poisons

The Upavisha (sub-poisons) are classified separately from the Mahavisha (great poisons). Seven Upavisha are listed: (1) Madara (Calotropis) milk, (2) Dhoora (Datura) seeds, (3) Kalihari (Gloriosa) tuber, (4) Kaner (Nerium oleander), (5) Chunchi (Abrus precatorius), (6) Akoshtha/Bhallataka (Semecarpus), and (7) Khattar (a mineral). These sub-poisons are less toxic than Mahavisha but still require purification. Their properties, symptoms of poisoning, and treatments are described. The chapter concludes with the note that proper knowledge of both Visha and Upavisha is essential for a Rasavaidya (Rasa Shastra practitioner). Verses: 206.

Ayurvedic Properties

Also Known As
English: Sub-poisons
Sanskrit: उपविष
Hindi: उपविष

What is Sub-Poisons — Classification (Upavisha Varga / उपविष वर्ग)?

The Upavisha (sub-poisons) are classified separately from the Mahavisha (great poisons). Seven Upavisha are listed: (1) Madara (Calotropis) milk, (2) Dhoora (Datura) seeds, (3) Kalihari (Gloriosa) tuber, (4) Kaner (Nerium oleander), (5) Chunchi (Abrus precatorius), (6) Akoshtha/Bhallataka (Semecarpus), and (7) Khattar (a mineral). These sub-poisons are less toxic than Mahavisha but still require purification. Their properties, symptoms of poisoning, and treatments are described. The chapter concludes with the note that proper knowledge of both Visha and Upavisha is essential for a Rasavaidya (Rasa Shastra practitioner). Verses: 206.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 7

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