Canvassing the External Applications of Snuhi : A Classical Memoir

Abstract

Classical texts of Ayurveda, basing upon the presence of spines, describes two types of Snuhi i.e, one having excess of spines and the other having less number of spines. The plant having more number of spines are considered as Shrestha (superior). Various parts of Snuhi were administered either externally or internally in multi dosage forms to combat varied disease conditions. Euphorbia neriifolia has been considered as the botanical equivalent of snuhi. A single hand data is unavailable on the usage of Snuhi, externally in various anomalies. This review portrays the wide usage of Snuhi in the form of external administration from 52 different classical texts consisting of treatise and compendia. It is observed that about 253 formulations, in 20 dosage forms, have been recommended, almost 62 varied diseases. Among these disease conditions, Kustha (Skin disorders) is maximum, followed by Arsha (Haemorhoids) and Vatavyadhi (Neuro-muscular anomalies) etc. where latex part of Snuhi has been indicated in external application.