A REVIEW ON GUNJA ABRUS PRECATORIUS

Abstract

The Visha Dravya Gunja is mentioned in ancient Sanskrit texts like Samhitas. In Samhita, it is categorized under Sthavara Visha, while in Rasashastra texts, it is classified as an Upavisha. The history of poisons and poisoning can be traced back thousands of years. Abrus precatorius, a highly invasive plant found in warm temperate to tropical regions, has spread widely and is now distributed across the globe. It is estimated that poison, in some form or another, is responsible for over one million illnesses worldwide every year. Many cases of poisoning, particularly in developing countries, go unreported. India has the highest incidence of poisoning globally. The most common causes of poisoning in India are plant toxins, pesticides, chemicals, and household poisons. Ayurvedic texts also mention the purification process (Shodhana) of Gunja. This article provides a comprehensive and critical analysis of Gunja based on Ayurvedic and contemporary texts.