Navigating Adverse Drug Reactions in Ayurvedic Pharmacology: A Comprehensive Analysis

Abstract

Ayurveda, the esteemed and venerable Indian system of medicine, encodes the very essence of existence within its sacred textual canon, the Samhitas. These revered scriptures elucidate the diagnostic nuances of disease, proffer treatment strategies, and enunciate principles for the preservation of optimal health. Although the term "Adverse Drug Reaction" (ADR) may not be explicitly enshrined in Ayurvedic literature, its philosophical substrata are nonetheless suffused with the imperatives of safety and rational drug utilization. This ancient and venerable discipline acknowledges that the improper preparation or deployment of medicinal agents can precipitate deleterious consequences, as meticulously delineated in the Charaka Samhita and other seminal texts. Ayurvedic medicines, inclusive of those incorporating metallic and mineral elements, are not immune to the potential for adverse reactions, notwithstanding their perceived natural provenance. The factors influencing these reactions encompass the quality and properties of plant material, environmental contingencies, and patient-specific characteristics, including constitution (prakriti), digestive strength (agni), and mental state.