The Vishahara Mantra is a class of mantras employed for the removal of poison (visha), particularly from snake bites, scorpion stings, and other venomous creatures. These mantras are deeply rooted in both classical scriptures and folk traditions. The Garuda Purana (e.g., Garuda Purana 1.1.1-2) describes Garuda as the supreme remover of poison, and mantras invoking Garuda are chanted for protection and healing. Additionally, the Atharva Veda (e.g., Atharva Veda 5.13) contains hymns for poison removal, establishing a Vedic foundation. The mantras often include the beej-akshara 'Gam' (गं) for Garuda, representing the power to neutralize toxins.
The phoneme 'Gam' is associated with the root 'gam' meaning 'to go' or 'to overcome', symbolizing the transcendence of poison. The deity primarily associated is Garuda, the divine eagle and vehicle of Vishnu, who is master of serpents. Dhanvantari, the physician of the gods, is also invoked, as per Ayurvedic texts like the Charaka Samhita (e.g., Charaka Samhita Chikitsa Sthana 23), which prescribe mantras alongside herbal remedies. In Bengal and parts of eastern India, Manasa Devi, the goddess of snakes, is worshiped with specific Vishahara mantras. Traditional purposes include neutralizing venom, preventing infection, and providing psychological calm during emergencies.
The mantras are chanted in a ritual setting, often with the application of herbal pastes (e.g., neem leaves) and water. Recommended chanting count is 108 times, preferably during sunrise or in a clean, quiet space. Cautions include that these mantras are not a substitute for medical treatment; they are used as complementary spiritual support. On Nag Panchami and Garuda Panchami, these mantras are recited extensively for protection from snakes. The iconography of Garuda holding serpents symbolizes mastery over poison.
Salutations to Garuda, the remover of poison.
The mantra includes the beej-akshara 'Gam' (गं) implicitly in 'Garuda', representing the power to neutralize toxins.