Year: 2026 | Month: May | Volume: 13 | Issue: 5 | Pages: 448-461
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijrr.20260541
Documentation and Analysis of Anjanam (Medicated Eye Salve) Preparations for Vida Nilai (Toxic States) in Classical Siddha Literature: A Review
Dr. Visakh K Raj1, Dr. Sowmini Preetha K2, Dr. G Chenthamarai Selvi3, Dr. S Balamani4
1PG Scholar (III year), Department of Nanju Maruthuvam, Government Siddha Medical College & Hospital, Palayamkottai, Tamil Nadu, India.
2PG Scholar (III year), Department of Nanju Maruthuvam, Government Siddha Medical College & Hospital, Palayamkottai, Tamil Nadu, India.
3Assistant Professor, Department of Nanju Maruthuvam, Government Siddha Medical College & Hospital, Palayamkottai, Tamil Nadu, India.
4Associate Professor, Department of Nanju Maruthuvam, Government Siddha Medical College & Hospital, Palayamkottai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Corresponding Author: Dr. Visakh K Raj
ABSTRACT
The Siddha system of medicine is one of the ancient traditional medical systems of India, with Siddha Toxicology (Vida Vaidyam) constituting a specialised branch that addresses the nature of toxins, their effects on the human body, fatal dose, fatal period, and corresponding therapeutic interventions. Siddha literature describes both internal and external treatment modalities for managing toxic states caused by plant, mineral, and animal biotoxins. Anjanam (medicated eye salve), one of the 32 external therapies mentioned in classical Siddha texts, is traditionally indicated in various disease conditions, including poisoning.
The present study aimed to compile and analyse Anjanam preparations prescribed for different Vida nilaigal (toxic states) as documented in selected classical Siddha literatures. Relevant formulations were collected, tabulated, and reviewed with respect to their indications, composition, and frequency of citation. Herbal, Herbo-mineral, and Mineral preparations were identified. Repeated formulations across multiple texts were documented, and commonly used solvents, plants, metals, minerals, and frequently indicated toxic conditions such as snake bite, scorpion sting, rat bite, and dog bite were analysed.
This review provides a consolidated reference on Anjanam therapy in Siddha toxicology and may serve as a foundation for future experimental and clinical studies.
Keywords: Anjanam; Siddha Toxicology; Vida Nilai; External Therapy; Classical Siddha Literature
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