A Contemporary Exploration of Traditional Indian Snake Envenomation Therapies
Authors
Adwait Deshpande
Sinhgad Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 309/310, Kusgaon (BK), Lonavala 410401, India; [email protected]
K Sastry
Alliance Institute of Advanced Pharmaceutical & Health Sciences, Patel Nagar, Kukatpally, Hyderabad 500085, India; [email protected]
Satish Bhise
Sinhgad Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 309/310, Kusgaon (BK), Lonavala 410401, India; [email protected]
Keywords:
snake envenomation, neglected tropical disease, plant-based antidote, traditional therapies, Naja naja, Daboia russelii, life saver
Abstract
Snakebite being a quick progressing serious situation needs immediate and aggressive therapy. Snake venom antiserum is the only approved and effective treatment available, but for selected snake species only. The requirement of trained staff for administration and serum reactions make the therapy complicated. In tropical countries where snakebite incidence is high and healthcare facilities are limited, mortality and morbidities associated with snake envenomation are proportionately high. Traditional compilations of medical practitioners’ personal journals have wealth of plant-based snake venom antidotes. Relatively, very few plants or their extractives have been scientifically investigated for neutralization of snake venom or its components. None of these investigations presents enough evidence to initiate clinical testing of the agents. This review focuses on curating Indian traditional snake envenomation therapies, identifying plants involved and finding relevant evidence across modern literature to neutralize snake venom components. Traditional formulations, their method of preparation and dosing have been discussed along with the investigational approach in modern research and their possible outcomes. A safe and easily administrable small molecule of plant origin that would protect or limit the spread of venom and provide valuable time for the victim to reach the healthcare centre would be a great lifesaver.
Keywords: snake envenomation, neglected tropical disease, plant-based antidote, traditional therapies, Naja naja, Daboia russelii, life saver
Author Biography
Satish Bhise, Sinhgad Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 309/310, Kusgaon (BK), Lonavala 410401, India; [email protected]
Arogyalabh Foundation, Bibvewadi, Pune 411037, India
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