Among venomous stings, scorpion stings are major cause of global public health issues associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. The incidence of scorpion sting envenomation is about 12lakh people per year and is responsible for about 3250 deaths yearly. Among the numerous species of scorpions, Mesobuthus tumulus and swammer dami are the important genera in India. Agad tantra is one among eight branches of Ayurveda encompasses topics of toxicology. Excruciating pain, burning sensation, swelling and erythema seen in scorpions resemble the symptoms of vrischikadamsha (scorpion sting) in Ayurveda. So there are many simple remedies mentioned in keraliya visha chikitsa and classics which can be incorporated in common clinical practice.
CASE STUDY:
It was a rainy day in the mid of June usually a season were visha vaidyas get plenty of bite cases. Around 11 pm when everyone was about to wind up and about to leave the clinic. Suddenly a car stood in front of the clinic with a 28-year-old female. He was having severe pain, redness and burning sensation on the heel of left foot and pain radiating towards the calf muscles.
While encountering the history, she was walking in the garden while collecting clothes at 10.45 pm night and she unknowingly stamped upon a scorpion. That time she felt some mild pain in her feet, and she saw scorpion also. For identification purpose, it was bought here.
EXAMINATION:
All the systems were examined thoroughly, and abnormalities were not detected. Vitals were checked, BP- 120/70 mm of hg, Heart rate–80/ min, Respiratory rate– 16/min.
In the area of site, there was a bite mark with reddish discolouration of surrounding area which can be clearly seen in the figure. While Palpating, some tenderness was also been observed over the sting site.
THERAPEUTIC INTERVENTION:
The patient was quickly identified with scorpion poisoning and as it is a case of the poison immediately medicines were administered. Dasanga Agada (2gm) thrice daily was advised for 2 days.
As a first-aid measure, 200 ml of ghee along with 1-2 pinch of saindhava was mixed and this was heated up to 400C. Dhara (continuously poured) was done on bite site with this mixture for 30 minutes and advised the patient to do the same thrice daily for 2 days from his home. The third day was given for observation. The patient was advised to follow all dos and don’ts during treatment and on follow up.
RESULTS:
Criteria for assessment were based on the signs and symptoms of vrischika damsha mentioned in classics. The symptoms were assessed before treatment, after treatment and after follow up. After completion of treatment, patient got complete relief of all symptoms.
DISCUSSION:
It is well known that gritha is best to treat all kinds of poison and all stages of poisoning. Ushnatwa (hot ghee) which is provided by dhara (pouring of medicated liquids) contributes to the reduction of symptoms of vrischika visha(scorpion bite). Both ghee and saindhava are muscle relaxants too and when it is heated it provides vascular contraction by which swelling and pain gets reduced.
CONCLUSION:
Among different types of poisonous bites and stings, scorpions have gained a great clinical importance as they cause both local manifestations and serious systemic reactions. In such cases, Dharayogas with reference in keraliya vishachikitsa granthas (traditional vishachikitsa books) along with internal medications are very helpful to nullify the signs and symptoms.
