Panchashirisha

Modern description

A classical formulation used to counteract poisons, often administered as a decoction or paste. Possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and wound-healing properties.

Purpose

Conquering poisons

Indications

• Poisoning (Visha)
• Skin diseases (Kushta)
• Itching (Kandu)
• Wounds (Vrana)
• Allergic conditions
• Insect bites
• Scorpion stings

Classical indications

• Poisons

Karma

• Vishaghna (anti-toxic)
• Kaphahara (reduces Kapha)
• Pittahara (reduces Pitta)
• Raktashodhaka (blood purifier)
• Vranaropana (wound healing)

Key ingredients

• Equal parts of the bark of five Shirisha plants
• Rakta Shirisha
• Sweta Shirisha
• Krishna Shirisha
• and Pita Shirisha .

Adult dose

3-6 grams

Pediatric dose

As directed by the physician, typically 5-10ml of decoction

Preparation steps

• Collect the five parts of Shirisha plant (root, bark, flower, leaves, and fruit).
• Dry each part separately.
• Grind each part into a coarse powder.
• Mix all the powdered ingredients in equal proportions.
• For decoction: Boil the powder with 16 parts of water until reduced to 1/8th.
• Filter the decoction.
• For paste: Mix the powder with water or honey to form a paste.

Safety contraindications

• Pregnancy, lactation, and in children below 5 years of age without medical supervision.