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Abstract
Nathai is the tamil name of snail, Pila globosa. Nathai Parpam is the ash prepared by the Snails and is used to treat anal bleeding, piles and rectal complications in Sidhha form of medical practice. There is dearth of knowledge about the toxicity aspects and medicinal efficacy for most of the contemporary and alternative forms of medicines. The present study is to ascertain the short and long term toxicity of this medicine on animal model. This study is all the more important since the Parpam is totally an inorganic material containing various metals and salts. It was observed that this medicine does not have any acute toxicity whereas it does indicate toxicity at chronic treatment. It is suggested that Nathai parpam can be safely used on a short term basis and chronic use should be avoided.
Key words Nathai, Parpam, Pila globosa, Toxicity, Sidhha, Acute, Chronic
INTRODUCTION
Efficacy standardization of Sidhha and other forms of contemporary and alternative medicine is the focus of attention in the light of modern day validation of medicines. It is a long way to go in this process. It is heartening that since last decade or so many reports in this direction have come, which is welcome sign. Some reports are available in this direction. [1-10] It is imperative to prove their efficacy by toxicological, pharmacological and pharmacokinetic aspects to bring them more acceptable. Although age old and time tested forms of medical practices, their acceptance at the global level is very limited due to the lack of such scientific data. Since these forms of medicines are ethno-pharmacologically used by majority of the humanity, their scientific validation is vital. Being in natural forms, these medicines are easily affordable, easily prepared and are supposed to have minimal side effects. In continuance of our endeavor in this direction, the present work encompasses the toxicological study of one Sidhha medicine, namely, "Nathai Parpam."
Nathai parpam is a sidhha preparation as per classical Sidhha literature. This medicine is taken orally with ghee and is mainly used to cure rectal bleeding and piles. This is also used for ailments like T.B. and Diadetes. The present method of preparation of Nathai parpam was taken from the book "Gunnapudham-Thathu Jeeva Vagupu" by Dr. R. Thiyagarajan,...