A comprehensive review on Bhallataka from classical texts of Ayurveda

Bhallataka (Semecarpus anacardium Linn.), is one of the important medicinal plant used in Ayurveda. Classical texts of Ayurveda cited its therapeutic efficacy in numerous disease conditions as a single drug and as an ingredient of compound formulations. The present review provides a single hand information collected from classical Ayurvedic literatures on the drug “Bhallataka”, being compiled from 13 Nighantus (lexicons), 16 Samhita/Chikitsa granthas (compendia of Ayurveda) and Rasa granthas (Compendia related to Rasashastra). It is observed that, more than 80 synonyms were coined for describing the morphological and pharmacological characters of Bhallataka. Different parts of Bhallataka are attributed with different pharmacological properties and actions. There is some difference of opinion regarding the properties and actions in the later nighantus. It is also used as an ingredient of different compound formulations which were used in 23 different dosage forms, where Taila (Oil), Ghrita (Ghee), Churna (Powder), Vati (Tablet) and Kashaya (Decoction) are found to be maximum number. Majority of formulations containing Bhallataka are indicated in Arsha (Haemorrhoids), Kushtha (Skin diseases), Gulma (Lump), Grahani (derangement of agni situated in grahani), Prameha (Polyuria) and Vataroga (Diseases of vata origin). Since the drug is mentioned under semipoisonous group of drugs, judicious use of Bhallataka, after proper processing is advocated. Specific collection and storage practices, antidotes and dietary habits to be followed during Bhallataka administration to prevent possible adverse effects are also documented in classical texts of Ayurveda