Concept of Dooshivisha (Latent Poison): An Ayurvedic Perspective with Modern Correlation

Dooshivisha is a unique concept described in Ayurvedic toxicology (Agadatantra), referring to a weakened or partially detoxified poison that remains dormant in the body for a prolonged period. Unlike acute poisons, Dooshivisha does not produce immediate life-threatening symptoms but manifests gradually under favorable conditions such as seasonal changes, unhealthy diet, stress, or weakened immunity. Classical Ayurvedic texts including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hridaya provide detailed descriptions of Dooshivisha, its etiopathogenesis, clinical features, and management. In the modern era, the concept of Dooshivisha can be correlated with chronic toxicity caused by environmental pollutants, pesticide residues, heavy metals, food additives, and drug accumulation. This article aims to review the classical Ayurvedic concept of Dooshivisha and establish its relevance through modern scientific understanding of chronic and cumulative toxicity.