An Ayurvedic management on Shushkakshipaka (dry eye syndrome) - A Case Report

Abstract

Background: Shalakya Tantra is one of the eight branches of Ayurveda, which also includes ophthalmology. Shushkakshipaka (dry eye syndrome) is one of the diseases, involving all parts of eye (Sarvagata Netra Roga) characterized by Gharsha (gritty feeling), Toda (pricking type of pain), Kunita (photophobia), Avila Darshana (blurred vision), Daha (burning sensation) and Raktaraji (congestion in the eye). All these symptoms are like the symptoms of dry eye syndrome. Aims and Objective: To evaluate the effect of Triphala Ghrita Tarpana (therapeutic procedure done on the eye) in the management of Shushkakshipaka. Materials and Methods: A 26yr male patient having symptoms of Shushkakshipaka were selected OPD of Shalakyatantra department, Government Ayurved college, Nagpur. Clinical signs and symptoms were given suitable scores according to their severity, and assessment was based on the relief in these symptoms after the treatment. Patients of dry eye syndrome were allocated for Tarpana Kriyakalp was given for 7 consecutive days in afternoon with follow up after 15 days for 2 months. Results: Marked Relief in symptoms like Gharsha (74%), Avila Darshana (65%), Upadeha (80%), Daha (72%), Kunita (78%), Toda (59%) and Raktaraji (83%) was obtained after Triphala Ghrita Tarpana. Conclusion: Remarkable result observed after Triphala Ghrita Tarpana in the form of improvement in all the chief complaints of Shushkakshipaka and provides long lasting relief to the patient.