A Review on the Evolution of Agadatantra in the Indian System of Medicine: Forensic Medicine and Toxicology

Abstract

With the progress of Indian civilization, Agadatantra emerged as one of the eight specialized branches of Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine, and has undergone significant development over time. This branch primarily focuses on the toxicological aspects of Ayurveda, as well as the ethical codes and guidelines for medical practice, including the professional duties and responsibilities of an Ayurvedic physician towards both patients and the state. Extensive references to Agadatantra are found in classical texts such as the Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Samgraha, Ashtanga Hridaya, and KautilyaArthashastra. In modern Ayurvedic education, Forensic Medicine and Toxicology are taught at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels under the subject AgadatantraVyavahara Ayurveda evumVidhivaidyaka.