A History of Indian Medical Literature v1.c14.32

v1.c14.32

Sudhā is the most drastic (tīkṣṇatama) among the purgatives; on account of its harmful effects when improperly prescribed, it is contra-indicated in particular groups of patients (10.3–4). Its indications are discussed (10.5–7ab). Two varieties are distinguished: having a small and a large number of thorns (kaṇṭaka); the latter variety is the best one for medicinal use (10.7cd–8ab). The synonyms of sudhā are enumerated (10.8cd). The way of collecting its latex (kṣīra) is dealt with (10.9).