“Strychnos Nux-Vomica Linn.: An Incredible Medicinal Plant – An Ayurvedic And Pharmacological Review”

Authors

  • Dabas Ravi
  • Sweety
  • Kar A. C

Keywords:

Ayurveda, homeopathy, strychnos nuxvomica Linn, (SN), toxic, medicinal, purification, Piscicide

Abstract


 In Ayurveda, Strychnos nux-vomica Linn. (SN) is known as Kuchla and is classified under Upavisha (semi-poisonous drugs). Despite its toxic nature, Kuchla occupies an important place in Ayurvedic therapeutics due to its potent medicinal properties when administered after proper purification. Classical Ayurvedic texts describe its judicious use in various disease conditions, highlighting the fundamental Ayurvedic principle that even poisonous substances can act as potent medicines when processed and used appropriately.In the system of homeopathy, Nux vomica is regarded as a highly versatile remedy, often quoted with the saying, “If you do not know what should be prescribed, give Nux vomica,” reflecting its wide range of clinical applications. Commonly known as Poison Nut, Strychnos nux-vomica simultaneously exhibits significant therapeutic potential alongside its toxicity. The plant contains important alkaloids such as strychnine and brucine, which are responsible for both its pharmacological actions and toxic effects. These alkaloids are known to possess stimulant, neuroactive, digestive, and immunomodulatory properties and are incorporated into several traditional formulations.Various parts of the plant, including seeds, leaves, fruits, and roots, contain medically useful alkaloids. Among these, the seeds are of prime therapeutic importance and are extensively described in Ayurvedic classics as well as official pharmacopoeias. Ayurveda emphasizes specific pharmaceutical processes such as Śodhana (purification) and Māraṇa, which are essential to detoxify the seeds and reduce their toxic potential before therapeutic use. After proper processing, Kuchla is used in the preparation of several important formulations such as Ekāṅgavīra Rasa, Krimimudgara Rasa, and other Rasashastra preparations.The therapeutic utility of Strychnos nux-vomica is not confined to Ayurveda alone; it has been traditionally employed in other AYUSH systems, including Unani and Homeopathy, for centuries. Clinically, it is indicated in conditions such as chronic rheumatism, malarial fever, loss of libido, neurological disorders (including weakness of limbs), dysentery, and digestive disturbances. Outside medicinal use, it has also been employed as a piscicide and rodenticide, emphasizing its potent bioactivity.The present paper aims to comprehensively review Strychnos nux-vomica Linn. with respect to its therapeutic efficacy, pharmacological actions, toxicity profile, dosage considerations, and safety aspects, based on classical Ayurvedic literature and contemporary scientific evidence..

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2025-02-28

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Ravi D, Sweety S, A. C K. “Strychnos Nux-Vomica Linn.: An Incredible Medicinal Plant – An Ayurvedic And Pharmacological Review”. J Neonatal Surg [Internet]. 2025 Feb. 28 [cited 2026 Feb. 4];14(5S):1051-62. Available from: https://jneonatalsurg.com/index.php/jns/article/view/9851

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Vol. 14 No. 5S (2025): Journal of Neonatal Surgery

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