Isolated Case Report of Ayurvedic or Herbal Management of Wasp Sting (Kanabha Damsha)

Abstract

Wasp stings are a common occurrence, particularly among individuals residing in forested or rural areas. Wasps ( Kanabha ) are insects closely related to ants and bees, with over 20,000 identified species. In Ayurveda , Acharya Sushruta has categorized Keeta Visha (insect venom) under Jangama Visha (animal-origin poison), describing 67 varieties of insects classified into four principal types— Vayavya , Agneya , Saumya , and Sannipataja Keeta . Insect bites typically cause itching, burning, redness, and localized swelling, with the severity influenced by the number of stings and individual sensitivity. A 30-year-old female patient presented to the outpatient department with acute pain, itching, redness, and burning on the right upper back following a wasp sting. The treatment protocol included the oral administration of Bilvadi Agada and Guluchyadi Kashayam tablets. Locally, Bilvadi Agada was applied after mixing with Tulasi Swarasa and Shatadhauta Ghrita . Marked improvement in itching, burning, and redness was observed by the fourth day of treatment, with complete recovery noted by the eighth day. This case report demonstrates the efficacy of Ayurvedic Vishaghna Chikitsa (antitoxic management) in Keeta Visha (insect poison) conditions. The combined use of Bilvadi Agada , Guluchyadi Kashayam , Tulasi Swarasa , and Shatadhauta Ghrita provided rapid symptomatic relief and complete recovery, highlighting the clinical relevance of Ayurvedic interventions in managing wasp stings.