Review on Vyanga vis a vis Melasma

Abstract

Vyanga (Melasma) is a common, acquired and symmetrical hypermelanosis characterized by more or less dark brownish maculae, with irregular contour, but clear limits, on photo exposed areas, especially the face, forehead, temples, and more rarely on the nose, eyelids, chin, and upper lips. In Ayurveda, Vyanga has been elaborated as one of the Kshudra Rogas (minor ailments). Vyanga is a disease which belongs to Swalpa variety of Ksudra Roga. Vayu aggravated by Krodha and Ayasa, get associated with Pitta and suddenly produces a thin, grey colored circular patch when reaches the face. Both modern and Ayurvedic sciences have considered the use of topical as well as oral medications and their combinations for the treatment of Vyanga. In Ayurveda, Vyanga has been treated both by Antah-Parimarjan and Bahi-Parimarjana Chikitsa. Though, several Ayurvedic texts such as Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Samgraha & Hridaya, etc., have elaborated the pathophysiology and treatment of Vyanga, the available references are scattered. Thus, there is need of in-depth review and compilation of Ayurvedic texts and literatures. This review may be helpful in better understanding of comparative pathophysiology and management of Vyanga (Melasma).