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Case study: Nutritional optic neuropathy and Ayurvedic management.

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: An interesting case study on nutritional optic neuropathy with ayurvedic manangement
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Author(s):

Prakruthi.G*
PG Scholar, Sri Kalabyraveshwara Swami Ayurvedic Medical College and Research Centre, Vijayanagar, Bangalore, Karnataka
Visakh.M.D
PG Scholar, Sri Kalabyraveshwara Swami Ayurvedic Medical College and Research Centre, Vijayanagar, Bangalore, Karnataka
Veena Shekar
Lecturer, Sri Kalabyraveshwara Swami Ayurvedic Medical College and Research Centre, Vijayanagar, Bangalore, Karnataka
Hamsaveni.V
Professor, Sri Kalabyraveshwara Swami Ayurvedic Medical College and Research Centre, Vijayanagar, Bangalore, Karnataka


Ayushdhara:

(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)

Full text available for: An interesting case study on nutritional optic neuropathy with ayurvedic manangement

Year: 2018

Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Nutritional optic neuropathy, also referred to as toxic amblyopia, is a chronic condition characterized by damage to the optic nerve fibers, often resulting from a diet deficient in essential nutrients such as proteins and vitamin B complex. This condition typically leads to progressive bilateral vision loss, where patients experience symptoms like visual fogginess and difficulties with near work. In Ayurvedic literature, this ailment aligns with the concept of Dhumadarshi, which is associated with various dietary and environmental factors contributing to eye diseases. This case study discusses a male patient diagnosed with nutritional optic neuropathy and details his treatment through Ayurvedic management.

Nutritional Deficiency and Its Impact

One of the pivotal aspects of this case is the patient's diet, which lacked vital nutrients necessary for maintaining healthy vision and overall bodily function. Nutritional optic neuropathy often arises from deficiencies in vitamins such as B-12, thiamine, and folic acid, as well as low levels of proteins containing sulfur amino acids. The Ayurvedic perspective emphasizes the role of Ahara (diet) as a key component in sustaining Swasthya (health). The condition of Dhumadarshi highlights that dietary inadequacies—especially the intake of irritants and improper food habits—can provoke visual disturbances. The patient's profession as a goldsmith, requiring prolonged exposure to flames, likely contributed to additional eye strain and exacerbated his symptoms.

Ayurvedic Management Strategies

The treatment protocol for the patient incorporated Ayurvedic principles such as Shodhana (purification), Kriyakalpa (therapeutic processes), and Rasayana (rejuvenation). Initial treatment involved Deepana and Pachana dravyas (digestive aids), followed by a Sadhyovirechana (purging) process to enhance digestive power and remove toxins. Various local treatments, including Bidalaka (topical applications) with Triphaladi churna, Tarpana (soothing eye treatment) with Mahatriphaladhya ghrita, and Anjana (eye applications), were administered to improve ocular health. The patient exhibited both subjective and objective improvements in vision post-treatment, demonstrating the efficacy of traditional Ayurvedic therapies.

Conclusion

This case study underscores the significance of a balanced diet and the impact of nutritional deficiencies on ocular health. The Ayurvedic approach not only focuses on symptomatic relief but also on restoring the underlying physiological balance through holistic treatment strategies. The successful management of nutritional optic neuropathy highlights the potential for integrating Ayurvedic principles in contemporary treatments and invites further exploration into the therapeutic benefits of traditional wisdom in modern healthcare practices.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is nutritional optic neuropathy and its causes?

Nutritional optic neuropathy is a chronic condition characterized by visual loss due to damage to optic nerve fibers. It often results from deficiencies in protein and vitamin B complex, commonly occurring in individuals with poor dietary habits and those exposed to harmful substances.

What Ayurvedic treatments were used for the patient?

The patient received treatments such as Deepana and Pachana dravyas, Shodhana, Kriyakalpa, and Rasayana. Specific therapies included Bidalaka with Triphaladi churna, Tarpana with Mahatriphaladhya ghrita, and use of Saptamruta loha, Drakshamalakadi lehya, and Drushtipradavarti anjana.

What were the results of the Ayurvedic management?

The treatment led to both subjective and objective improvements in the patient's vision. Visual acuity increased significantly, confirming the effectiveness of Ayurvedic management in addressing nutritional optic neuropathy and enhancing overall eye health.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Case study: Nutritional optic neuropathy and Ayurvedic management.�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Drug:
In Ayurveda, a drug refers to any natural or herbal substance used for treatment. For example, Syp. Liv 52 and Avipattikarachurna were used as drugs to increase the patient's digestion power.

2) Disease:
Nutritional optic neuropathy, compared to Dhumadarshi in Ayurvedic texts, is a condition caused by a diet deficient in proteins and vitamin B complex. It leads to visual disturbances due to optic nerve damage.

3) Triphala (Tri-phala):
Triphala is a herbal compound used in various Ayurvedic treatments. It consists of three fruits: Haritaki, Vibhitaki, and Amalaki, which help in nourishing the ocular tissues and are part of different treatments like Bidalaka and Tarpana.

4) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita, or clarified butter, is used in Ayurvedic formulations for its nourishing properties. It enhances the absorption of fat-soluble substances and was part of treatments like Mahatriphaladhya Ghrita used for Tarpana and Putapaka.

5) Basti:
Basti refers to an Ayurvedic enema procedure used for detoxification and nourishment. It is said to be particularly effective in treating conditions like Timira (cataract), having a cleansing and fortifying effect on the body.

6) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana in Ayurveda is the science of rejuvenation and anti-aging treatments aimed at improving overall health and longevity. These treatments often include nourishing herbs and formulations such as the ones used in this case study to treat optic neuropathy.

7) Putapaka (Puta-paka):
Putapaka is an Ayurvedic procedure involving application of medicated substances to the eyes. It allows both water and lipid-soluble nutrients to penetrate the cornea, improving the bioavailability of the treatment, as seen in this case study.

8) Medicine:
In the context of this case, various Ayurvedic medicines were used, such as Neurobion forte (a vitamin supplement), Syp. Liv 52, and Avipattikara Churna, which played crucial roles in treating the patient’s nutritional optic neuropathy.

9) Amalaki:
Amalaki, also known as Indian Gooseberry, is one of the components of Triphala and is used in various Ayurvedic formulations for its nourishing and rejuvenating properties, benefiting particularly the eyes and overall health.

10) Tarpana:
Tarpana is an Ayurvedic eye treatment where medicated ghee is retained over the eyes. This enhances absorption, nourishes the ocular tissues, and was used in the treatment regimen of the patient with nutritional optic neuropathy.

11) Anjana (Amjana):
Anjana refers to an ophthalmic application in Ayurveda. In this case, Drushtipradavarti Anjana was recommended daily to strengthen vision, utilizing ingredients like Triphala and other eye-beneficial herbs.

12) Ahara:
Ahara, or diet, is critical in Ayurveda for maintaining health. The patient's poor nutrition was a primary contributing factor to his condition, emphasizing the importance of a balanced diet rich in necessary vitamins and minerals.

13) Bidalaka:
Bidalaka involves the application of medicated pastes to the eyelids. Ingredients such as Triphala and Yashti are used for their ocular benefits, helping reduce eye strain and nourish eye tissues as part of the treatment plan.

14) Yashti (Yasti):
Yashti, also known as licorice, is used in many Ayurvedic treatments for its anti-inflammatory and eye-nourishing properties. It was part of the Bidalaka treatment applied to the patient’s eyes to help improve vision.

15) Blood:
In Ayurveda, treatments focus on improving blood flow and nourishment to tissues. Various formulations and procedures in the case study aimed to enhance blood circulation and absorption of nutrients in the optic nerve and eyes.

16) Loha:
Loha, meaning iron, is used in Ayurvedic formulations like Saptamruta Loha for its benefits in treating visual impairments and anemia. It is included for its nourishing effects on the dhatus and the overall body.

17) Karnataka:
Karnataka is the state in India where the case study was conducted, specifically at the Sri Kalabyraveshwara Swami Ayurvedic Medical College and Research Centre in Bangalore.

18) Shodhana (Sodhana):
Shodhana refers to purification treatments in Ayurveda, such as Sadhyovirechana (purgation) and Basti (enema), to cleanse the body of toxins. These procedures were part of the classical treatment line followed for the patient.

19) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, representing fire and water elements. The patient's condition, Dhumadarshi, is considered a Pittaja Vyadhi, requiring treatments that balance and pacify aggravated Pitta.

20) Madhu:
Madhu, or honey, is frequently used in Ayurvedic treatments for its healing and nourishing properties. It was used in combination with ghee in the administration of medications like Saptamruta Loha.

21) Karma (Karman):
Karma in Ayurveda refers to actions or treatments administered to achieve a specific therapeutic goal. In this context, Yogabasti and various other treatments were the karmas undertaken to treat the patient's optic neuropathy.

22) Netra:
Netra means eye in Sanskrit. This case study focused on treating ocular issues, specifically nutritional optic neuropathy, using various Ayurvedic treatments to improve vision and eye health.

23) Diet:
The patient's diet was deficient in proteins and vitamin B complex, contributing to his condition. Ayurvedic treatment emphasized the importance of nutritional supplements and proper diet to address these deficiencies.

24) Burning sensation:
The patient initially reported a burning sensation in his eyes, a symptom associated with aggravated Pitta dosha in Ayurveda. Treatments aimed at Pitta balancing were employed to alleviate this symptom.

25) Triphaladi (Triphala-adi):
Triphaladi refers to formulations containing Triphala along with other herbs. It was used in treatments like Bidalaka to soothe and nourish the eyes and alleviate symptoms caused by nutritional deficiencies.

26) Goldsmith:
The patient’s occupation as a goldsmith involved exposure to flames and eye strain from detailed work, contributing to his ophthalmic issues and highlighting the need for treatment tailored to his specific occupational hazards.

27) Tridosha (Tridosa, Tri-dosha):
Tridosha is the combination of the three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, which govern physiological conditions in the body. Imbalances in these doshas are addressed in Ayurveda to treat diseases and maintain health.

28) Sthanika:
Sthanika chikitsa refers to localized treatment. Local ocular treatments such as Bidalaka, Tarpana, and Anjana were part of the therapeutic regime to address the patient's vision problems directly.

29) Draksha (Draksa):
Draksha, or raisins, are used in Ayurvedic formulations like Drakshamalakadi Lehya for their nourishing and rejuvenating properties, contributing to the improvement of the patient’s eye health and overall nutrition.

30) Samaka (Shamaka):
Shamaka refers to pacifying treatments in Ayurveda. Many herbs used in the case study have dosha-shamaka properties, specifically targeting Pitta and Kapha to alleviate symptoms and underlying conditions.

31) Dravya:
Dravya in Ayurveda refers to medicinal substances. Various dravyas such as Triphala, Yashti, and Amalaki were used for their eye health benefits in different treatments to manage the patient's nutritional optic neuropathy.

32) Family:
None of the patient’s family members had eye complaints, indicating that the patient’s condition was likely due to his occupation and nutritional deficiencies rather than genetic factors.

33) Taila (Thaila):
Taila, or medicinal oils, are used in various Ayurvedic treatments. For instance, Ksheera Bala Taila was used for Padabhyanga to nourish the ocular tissues by stimulating points on the feet.

34) Virya:
Virya refers to the potency of an herb or medicinal formulation. For example, the cooling virya of Ghrita or the heating virya of Katu dravya play roles in balancing doshas and treating conditions like Dhumadarshi.

35) Lehya:
Lehya refers to a type of Ayurvedic formulation that is often semi-solid in consistency. Drakshamalakadi Lehya was prescribed to the patient to provide nourishing nutrients and support eye health.

36) Svamin (Swami, Svami, Swamin):
Swami is a title of respect or reverence. In this context, Sri Kalabyraveshwara Swami is part of the name of the Ayurvedic medical college where the case study was undertaken.

37) Hara:
Hara means to remove or alleviate. Various Ayurvedic treatments aim to be Pitta Hara, Kapha Hara, etc., to balance doshas and alleviate symptoms as seen in the treatment plan for the patient.

38) Roga:
Roga means disease or illness in Sanskrit. Nutritional optic neuropathy was the roga being treated in this case study using Ayurvedic treatments aimed at balancing doshas and providing necessary nourishment.

39) Vasa (Vasha):
Vasa is an herb used in Ayurvedic medicine known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It was part of the Vasaguduchyadi Kashaya prescribed to the patient to help manage his eye condition.

40) Food:
Food, or Ahara, is fundamental in Ayurveda for maintaining health. Nutritional deficiencies in the patient’s diet were a significant factor in his eye condition, indicating the importance of proper nutrition.

41) Pittaprashamana (Pittaprasamana, Pitta-prashamana):
Pitta-prashamana refers to treatments that alleviate aggravated Pitta dosha. Many formulations and treatments used in this case study have Pitta-prashamana properties to treat the patient's condition, which is classified as Pitta-related.

42) Sthanasamshraya (Sthanasamsraya, Sthana-samshraya):
Sthanasamshraya refers to the localization of a doshic imbalance in a specific tissue or organ. In this case, aggravated doshas localized in the drushtimandala (eye region), causing the patient's visual disturbances.

43) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological properties of the Ayurvedic drugs used in treatment played a crucial role in improving vision. These properties include nourishing ocular tissues and combating deficiencies contributing to the patient's condition.

44) Dahaprashamana (Dahaprasamana, Daha-prashamana):
Dahaprashamana means anti-inflammatory or cooling effects. Many treatments, such as those involving Amalaki and Yashtimadhu, had Dahaprashamana properties to alleviate the patient’s burning sensation in the eyes.

45) Vatapittahara (Vatapitta-hara):
Vatapitta-hara treatments balance the Vata and Pitta doshas. Yashtimadhu is an example of a Vatapitta-hara herb used in the case study to treat optic neuropathy symptoms.

46) Tridoshahara (Tridosahara, Tridosha-hara):
Tridoshahara refers to treatments that balance all three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Amalaki and Triphala are known for their Tridoshahara properties and were used to achieve overall doshic balance in the patient.

47) Jaranashakti (Jaranasakti, Jarana-shakti):
Jaranashakti refers to digestive power. Treatments aimed to improve the patient's Jaranashakti through Deepana and Pachana therapies, enhancing his digestion and nutrient absorption.

48) Yashtimadhu (Yastimadhu, Yashti-madhu):
Yashtimadhu, or licorice, is frequently used in Ayurvedic medicine for its anti-inflammatory and nourishing properties. It was part of multiple treatments to help improve the patient’s ocular health.

49) Bastikarman (Bastikarma, Basti-karman, Basti-karma):
Basti-karma is the enema procedure used in Panchakarma treatments. It helps detoxify the body and nourish it, being particularly effective for conditions affecting the nervous system and the eyes.

50) Prashamana (Prasamana):
Prashamana treatments are pacifying therapies aimed at reducing symptoms. Many herbs and treatments used in the case study have Prashamana properties to soothe aggravated doshas and symptoms.

51) Raktapitta (Rakta-pitta):
Raktapitta refers to blood and Pitta-related conditions. Treatments aimed at balancing the blood and Pitta dosha were crucial in managing the patient’s symptoms like burning sensations and vision impairment.

52) Vatapitta (Vata-pitta):
Vatapitta overlaps with the discussions of Vata and Pitta doshas. Treatments aiming to balance these two doshas were crucial in managing the optic neuropathy in the patient.

53) Balataila (Bala-taila):
Bala Taila, such as Ksheera Bala Taila, is used for its nourishing and strengthening properties. It was used for Padabhyanga to stimulate points on the feet beneficial for eye health.

54) Discussion:
The discussion in the case study provides insights into how Ayurvedic treatments like Shodhana, Rasayana, and specific formulations positively impacted the patient's nutritional optic neuropathy.

55) Vibhitaki:
Vibhitaki is one of the three fruits in Triphala, known for its Kapha and Pitta balancing properties. It is used to enhance vision and treat eye diseases due to its nourishing qualities.

56) Dhumapana (Dhuma-pana):
Dhumapana (smoking) is mentioned as an etiological factor for eye diseases in Ayurvedic texts. Although the patient was a non-smoker, his occupational exposure to smoke was considered a contributing factor.

57) Pittahara (Pitta-hara):
Pittahara treatments focus on balancing the Pitta dosha. Given that optic neuropathy was classified as a Pitta-related disorder, many Pittahara treatments and herbs were used to manage the patient's condition.

58) Substance:
Various medicinal substances (dravyas) were used in the case, such as Triphala and Yashtimadhu, selected for their specific therapeutic actions to treat the nutritional optic neuropathy.

59) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are present in Triphala, particularly Amalaki, contributing to their antioxidant properties, which help in nourishing and protecting the ocular tissues.

60) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine, was the foundation for the treatments provided in this case study, demonstrating its effectiveness in managing nutritional optic neuropathy through holistic approaches.

61) Haritaki:
Haritaki is one of the components of Triphala, known for its Tridosha balancing properties and its role in nourishing and rejuvenating tissues, contributing to eye health in the case study.

62) Brimhana (Brmhana):
Brimhana treatments are nourishing and strengthening therapies. They were essential in rebuilding the health of the patient's optic nerve and overall eye health through a series of Ayurvedic treatments.

63) Pradhana:
Pradhana refers to primary or dominant. For instance, Pitta Pradhana Tridosha Prakopa indicates the primary aggravation of Pitta dosha leading to the patient's condition.

64) Pariksha (Pariksa):
Pariksha means examination. Netra Pariksha was conducted to assess the patient's vision and ocular health, guiding the subsequent Ayurvedic treatments provided.

65) Narayana (Nara-ayana, Nara-yana):
Narayana Netralaya is an eye hospital where the patient initially sought treatment before approaching the Ayurvedic institution for his nutritional optic neuropathy.

66) Indriya (Imdriya):
Indriyas are the senses in Ayurveda. Treatments like Thalam focused on nourishing the 'indriyas' to improve ocular health and the patient's visual acuity.

67) Bhojana:
Bhojana, or food, reflects one of the key factors affecting the patient's health. An improperly balanced bhojana (diet) deficient in essential nutrients was a primary cause of the patient's nutritional optic neuropathy.

68) Snehana:
Snehana is an oleation therapy used to prepare the body for further cleansing treatments. It was part of the patient’s treatment protocol to improve tissue lubrication and facilitate detoxification.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 112]

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Case study: Nutritional optic neuropathy and Ayurvedic management.�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Anjana, Shodhana, Ahara, Tarpana, Rasayana, Basti, Koshtashuddhi, Pachana, Chikitsa, Kriyakalpa, Talam, Deepana, Visual acuity, Padabhyanga, Ayurvedic classic, Fundoscopic examination, Drushtigatarogas.

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