Ayurvedic Treatment for Severe Dry Eye Syndrome: A Case Study
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Ayurvedic Management of Severe Dry Eye Syndrome & Complications: A Case Study
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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Preeti Pahwa
Associate Professor, Dept. of Shalakya, Patanjali Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Haridwar, Uttarakhand.
Ashu Vinaik
Professor, Shri Krishna Ayush University Kurukshetra, Haryana.
Priya Patel
PG Scholars, Dept. of Shalakya, Patanjali Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Haridwar, Uttarakhand.
Jasmine Kaur
PG Scholars, Dept. of Shalakya, Patanjali Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Haridwar, Uttarakhand.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Ayurvedic Management of Severe Dry Eye Syndrome & Complications: A Case Study
Year: 2021 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v8i5.815
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) is a prevalent condition characterized by insufficient tear production and distribution, leading to symptoms that can greatly affect the quality of life. The incidence of DES is estimated to affect 10-30% of individuals in industrialized countries. The Second International Dry Eye Workshop (DEWS II) defined dry eye as a multifactorial disorder that results in loss of tear film homeostasis and triggers ocular symptoms due to tear film instability, hyperosmolarity, and ocular surface inflammation. Ayurvedic medicine offers a holistic approach to treat DES, proposing both systemic and topical treatments, making it distinct from conventional treatments that primarily rely on lubricants. This case study reviews a patient diagnosed with severe dry eye syndrome, referred to as Shushkakshipaka in Ayurveda, and discusses the Ayurvedic management strategies employed.
Holistic Ayurvedic Treatments for Dry Eye Syndrome
Ayurveda identifies dry eye syndrome with the condition called Shushkakshipaka, characterized by symptoms such as foreign body sensation, extreme dryness, and difficulty in opening and closing the eyes. Classical Ayurvedic treatments for this condition include therapies such as Snehana (oleation), Nasyama (nasal administration of medicated oils), and Tarpana (medicated ghee applied to the eyes). The treatment strategy emphasizes balancing bodily doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and restoring the stability of the tear film. In the reported case, a variety of Ayurvedic formulations and therapies were employed, including medicated ghee and herbal concoctions, which were tailored to address the specific symptoms of the patient over multiple visits.
Improvement and Patient Response
The patient, a 24-year-old female, exhibited significant signs of improvement after undergoing a series of Ayurvedic treatments over several visits. Conventional medical treatment prior to her Ayurvedic care provided limited relief as she suffered recurrent dry eye symptoms, including burning, redness, and mucus discharge. After the Ayurvedic regimen, including procedures such as Nasya and Tarpana, assessments showed marked improvements in tear production and symptom relief. Specific tests, including the Schirmer-1 test, indicated enhanced tear secretion and improved tear film stability, ultimately resulting in better ocular comfort and visual acuity.
Conclusion
This case study underscores the efficacy of classical Ayurvedic management in treating severe dry eye syndrome and its complications. Through targeted therapies that promote tear production and alleviate discomfort symptoms, Ayurveda provides a substantial alternative to modern treatments that lack comprehensive solutions. The approach not only alleviated the patient's discomfort but also improved the aesthetic condition of her eyelids, demonstrating the holistic benefits of Ayurvedic therapy. The promising results advocate for further exploration into Ayurvedic practices as effective interventions for managing dry eye syndrome and enhancing patient quality of life.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Dry Eye Syndrome and its common symptoms?
Dry Eye Syndrome, or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, results from inadequate tear production. Common symptoms include burning sensation, redness, mucus discharge, photophobia, and a foreign body sensation in the eyes.
What Ayurvedic treatments were used for severe Dry Eye Syndrome?
The treatment included methods like Nasya, Tarpana, and Seka, along with oral medications such as Patoladi ghrita and Jeevantyadi ghrita. These treatments aimed to hydrate the eyes and alleviate symptoms effectively.
What improvements were observed after Ayurvedic treatment for Dry Eye?
Patients showed significant improvements in tear production and symptom relief, including reduced burning sensation and discomfort. Follow-up assessments indicated marked increases in Schirmer test values, demonstrating enhanced ocular health.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ayurvedic Treatment for Severe Dry Eye Syndrome: A Case Study�. 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) Disease:
In Ayurveda, the term 'disease' refers to any imbalance or disorder in the body's doshas, tissues (dhatus), or channels (srotas). For instance, dry eye syndrome, also described as Shushkakshipaka in Ayurveda, is considered a disease stemming from imbalances in Vata and Pitta doshas.
2) Patoladi (Patola-adi):
'Patoladi' refers to a type of ghrita (medicated ghee) used in Ayurvedic treatments. In the context of dry eye syndrome or Shushkakshipaka, Patoladi ghrita is used for therapeutic procedures such as Tarpana to pacify Pitta dosha and promote eye health.
3) Durvadi:
Durvadi refers to another type of ghrita utilized in Ayurvedic eye care procedures like Tarpana. Durvadi ghrita has properties that balance Vata and Pitta doshas and provide lubrication and nourishment to the ocular tissues, addressing symptoms like dryness and discomfort.
4) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine from India, which emphasizes balance among the body's doshas, or humors. This case study on dry eye syndrome showcases Ayurveda's comprehensive approach, including treatments like Nasya, Tarpana, and Sneha (medicated oils) that address imbalances in both body and mind.
5) Medicine:
In Ayurveda, 'medicine' often refers to herbal formulations and treatments designed to balance the doshas and treat specific conditions. This case study mentions various Ayurvedic medicines such as Chitrakadi Vati, Ajmodadi churn, and different medicated ghees like Patoladi ghrita.
6) Tarpana:
Tarpana is an Ayurvedic treatment procedure where medicated ghee or oils are used to bathe the eyes. This technique helps in nourishing the ocular tissues and balancing the doshas, particularly beneficial in conditions like dry eye syndrome, also known as Shushkakshipaka.
7) Nasya (Nashya):
Nasya refers to the administration of medicinal oils or powders through the nasal passages. It is used in Ayurveda to treat diseases of the head and neck. In the treatment of Shushkakshipaka (dry eye), Nasya helps expel accumulated doshas and promotes ocular health.
8) Vata:
Vata dosha in Ayurveda is associated with air and space elements, governing movement and dryness in the body. Imbalance in Vata can lead to conditions like Shushkakshipaka, where symptoms include dryness and difficulty in eye movements. Treatments aim to pacify this dosha.
9) Ghrita (Ghrta):
'Ghrita' refers to medicated ghee used in various Ayurvedic treatments. This case study on dry eye syndrome mentions the use of Patoladi ghrita and Durvadi ghrita in procedures like Tarpana to lubricate and nourish the eyes and balance the doshas.
10) Musta (Mushta):
Musta is an herb mentioned in the treatment schedule for dry eye syndrome. It is used in kwatha (decoction) preparations for procedures like Seka (eye wash) and helps in reducing inflammation and balancing the doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta.
11) Patola:
refers to an herb used in kwatha (decoction) preparations for treatments like Seka. Patola has properties that aid in balancing Pitta and Kapha doshas and is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine for its anti-inflammatory benefits.
12) Dhatu:
In Ayurveda, 'Dhatu' refers to the seven fundamental tissues that constitute the body. Rasa dhatu, for instance, contributes to the aqueous part of the tear film, while disturbances in these dhatus can lead to conditions like Shushkakshipaka, or dry eye syndrome.
13) Pain:
Pain, or 'shula' in Ayurveda, can be a symptom of various imbalances in the body. In the context of dry eye syndrome, pain manifests as ocular discomfort and irritation, which Ayurvedic treatments aim to alleviate through dosha-balancing therapies.
14) Burning_sensation:
A burning sensation in the eyes is a symptom of dry eye syndrome, which corresponds to the Ayurvedic condition Shushkakshipaka. Ayurvedic treatments like Tarpana and Nasya aim to balance the involved doshas, particularly Pitta, to reduce this discomfort.
15) Shirodhara (Sirodhara, Shiras-dhara):
Shirodhara is an Ayurvedic therapy involving the pouring of a continuous stream of medicated oil on the forehead. It helps in calming the mind and balancing the doshas, specifically Vata and Pitta, thereby aiding in conditions like Shushkakshipaka (dry eye syndrome).
16) Priyangu (Priyamgu):
Priyangu is an herb used in various Ayurvedic formulations, including those for treating dry eye syndrome. It is part of the kwatha (decoction) used in Seka procedures, helping to balance the doshas and provide relief from symptoms like dryness and irritation.
17) Lodhra:
Lodhra is another herb used in Ayurvedic treatments for eye conditions such as Shushkakshipaka (dry eye syndrome). It is included in preparations for Seka (eye wash) and has anti-inflammatory properties that help in balancing the doshas and soothing the eyes.
18) Pitta:
Pitta dosha represents the elements of fire and water in the body, governing digestion, metabolism, and temperature regulation. Imbalance in Pitta contributes to inflammatory conditions like Shushkakshipaka (dry eye), causing symptoms like burning sensation and dryness.
19) Rasa (Rasha):
In Ayurveda, Rasa refers to both taste and the first of the seven body tissues (dhatus). Rasa Dhatu contributes to the aqueous part of tears, essential for eye health. Any imbalance can result in conditions like Shushkakshipaka, where the tear film's stability is compromised.
20) Daruharidra (Daru-haridra):
Daruharidra is a herb used in Ayurvedic treatments for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is part of the kwatha (decoction) used in Seka and Kizhiswedan procedures to treat dry eye syndrome, or Shushkakshipaka, by balancing the doshas and soothing the eyes.
21) Patanjali:
Patanjali Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya in Haridwar is one of the institutions where this case study was conducted. It emphasizes the use of classical Ayurvedic treatments for managing conditions like Shushkakshipaka (dry eye syndrome), integrating ancient wisdom with modern research.
22) Manjishtha (Manjistha, Mamjishtha):
Manjistha is an herb noted for its blood-purifying and anti-inflammatory properties. It was used in the treatment regimen in the form of fine powder paste for Vidalaka, helping to treat symptoms of Shushkakshipaka (dry eye syndrome) by balancing the doshas.
23) Blindness:
Blindness can be a severe complication if dry eye syndrome is left untreated. Ayurveda stresses early intervention using treatments like Nasya (nasal administration) and Tarpana (eye bathing) to rectify the underlying dosha imbalances that lead to such conditions.
24) Madhura:
Madhura (sweet) is one of the tastes in Ayurveda known for its dosha-balancing properties. Medications like Durvadi Ghrita, which have Madhura Rasa, are used to pacify Vata and Pitta doshas in the treatment of Shushkakshipaka (dry eye syndrome).
25) Dosha (Dosa):
Doshas are the fundamental bio-energies in Ayurveda, consisting of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Balancing these doshas is key to maintaining health. In conditions like Shushkakshipaka (dry eye), treatments aim to pacify imbalanced Vata and Pitta to restore ocular health.
26) Mamsa (Mamsha):
Mamsa Dhatu in Ayurveda represents muscle tissues, contributing to the non-aqueous part of the tear film. Imbalances in Mamsa Dhatu can contribute to conditions like Shushkakshipaka (dry eye), where the stability of the tear film is compromised.
27) Netra:
[see source text or glossary: Netra]
28) Ayus (Ayush):
AYUSH stands for Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy, traditional systems of medicine in India. The journal AYUSHDHARA publishes research in these areas, like this case study on the Ayurvedic management of dry eye syndrome or Shushkakshipaka.
29) Seka (Sheka):
Seka is an Ayurvedic procedure involving eye-washing with herbal decoctions. In treating Shushkakshipaka (dry eye), Seka with herbs like Patola and Priyangu helps soothe the eyes, reduce inflammation, and balance the doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta.
30) Vati:
Vati in Ayurveda refers to tablets or pills made from herbal ingredients. For example, Chitrakadi Vati is used for Deepana (digestive stimulation) and Pachana (digestive enhancement) in the treatment schedule for Shushkakshipaka (dry eye syndrome).
31) Nasa (Nasha):
[see source text or glossary: Nasa]
32) Drug:
In the context of this case study, 'drug' refers to various Ayurvedic formulations like ghritas (medicated ghees), churnas (powders), and kwathas (decoctions) used to treat Shushkakshipaka (dry eye syndrome) by balancing the doshas and nourishing the dhatus.
33) Ashtangasamgraha (Astangasamgraha, Astangasangraha, Ashtanga-samgraha, Ashtanga-sangraha, Ashtangasangraha):
[see source text or glossary: Astanga-samgraha]
34) Shalakyatantra (Salakyatantra, Shalakya-tantra, Shalakyatamtra):
Shalakya Tantra is a branch of Ayurveda dealing with diseases of the head and neck, including eye disorders. This case study involves the Shalakya Tantra department of Patanjali Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya and focuses on the Ayurvedic treatment of Shushkakshipaka (dry eye syndrome).
35) Tridoshahara (Tridosahara, Tridosha-hara):
[see source text or glossary: Tridoshahara]
36) Madhurarasa (Madhura-rasa):
[see source text or glossary: Madhura-rasa]
37) Inflammation:
Inflammation commonly appears as redness and swelling in medical conditions. In dry eye syndrome, Ayurvedic treatment procedures involve anti-inflammatory herbs like Patola and Priyangu to reduce ocular inflammation and balance the doshas.
38) Kurukshetra (Kuruksetra, Kuru-kshetra):
Kurukshetra is the location of Shri Krishna Ayush University, where one of the authors of this study, Ashu Vinaik, is a professor. The study highlights the contributions of academic institutions in advancing Ayurvedic research and treatments for conditions like Shushkakshipaka (dry eye).
39) Rasadhatu (Rasa-dhatu):
Rasa Dhatu refers to the body's plasma, which includes the aqueous part of tears. In Ayurveda, maintaining the balance of Rasa Dhatu is crucial for treating conditions like Shushkakshipaka (dry eye), which involves procedures that nourish this dhatu.
40) Vatapitta (Vata-pitta):
Vatapitta refers to the combined effects of Vata and Pitta doshas. In Ayurveda, imbalances in Vatapitta contribute to conditions like Shushkakshipaka (dry eye), characterized by symptoms such as dryness and inflammation. Treatments aim to restore doshic balance.
41) Pittadosha (Pittadosa, Pitta-dosha):
Pittadosha represents the fire and water elements, governing transformation and metabolism in the body. Imbalances in Pitta can lead to conditions like Shushkakshipaka (dry eye syndrome), characterized by burning sensations and dryness. Ayurveda aims to balance Pitta through treatments like Tarpana and Nasya.
42) Discussion:
[see source text or glossary: Discussion]
43) Irritation:
Irritation, particularly in the eyes, is a common symptom of Shushkakshipaka (dry eye syndrome). Ayurvedic treatments aim to reduce ocular irritation through balancing the doshas, using procedures like Nasya and Tarpana to soothe and nourish the eyes.
44) Uttamanga (Uttama-anga, Uttamamga):
[see source text or glossary: Uttamanga]
45) Parisheka (Pariseka):
Pariseka, also known as netra pariseka, is an Ayurvedic eye treatment that involves pouring medicinal decoctions over the eyes. This method helps to reduce inflammation and soothe symptoms in conditions like Shushkakshipaka (dry eye syndrome).
46) Drakshadi (Draksadi):
[see source text or glossary: Drakshadi]
47) Samgraha (Sangraha):
[see source text or glossary: Samgraha]
48) Indriya (Imdriya):
[see source text or glossary: Indriya]
49) Guggulu:
[see source text or glossary: Guggulu]
50) Snehana:
[see source text or glossary: Snehana]
51) Gharsha (Gharsa):
[see source text or glossary: Gharsha]
52) Trivrit (Tri-vrit, Trivrt):
[see source text or glossary: Trivrit]
53) Shrotra (Srotra):
[see source text or glossary: Shrotra]
54) Krishna (Krsna):
[see source text or glossary: Krishna]
55) Anupana:
Anupana refers to a substance taken along with the main medicine to aid its absorption. In the treatment of Shushkakshipaka (dry eye), Drakshadi Kwath serves as an anupana for Virechana, enhancing its efficacy in balancing the doshas.
56) Ashtanga (Astanga, Ashtan-anga):
Astanga refers to the eight branches of Ayurveda, one of which is Shalakya Tantra, focusing on diseases of the head and neck. This study on dry eye syndrome uses principles from Astanga Ayurveda to treat the condition through holistic methods.
57) Haridra:
Haridra (Turmeric) is an herb with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is used in Ayurvedic treatments for conditions like Shushkakshipaka (dry eye syndrome), where it helps reduce inflammation and restore doshic balance.
58) Pittaja (Pitta-ja):
[see source text or glossary: Pittaja]
59) Nostril:
[see source text or glossary: Nostril]
60) Doorway:
[see source text or glossary: Doorway]
61) Jasmine:
Jasmine Kaur is one of the co-authors of this case study, and her work contributes to the understanding and application of Ayurvedic treatments for dry eye syndrome. The inclusion of academic perspectives strengthens the study's credibility and findings.
62) Tantra (Tamtra, Tantrism):
[see source text or glossary: Tantra]
63) Hridya (Hrdya):
[see source text or glossary: Hridya]
64) Anjana (Amjana):
[see source text or glossary: Anjana]
65) Vipaka:
[see source text or glossary: Vipaka]
66) Kantha (Kamtha):
[see source text or glossary: Kantha]
67) Vyadhin (Vyadhi):
[see source text or glossary: Vyadhi]
68) Family:
[see source text or glossary: Family]
69) Shiras (Siras, Siro, Shirash):
[see source text or glossary: Shirah]
70) Nature:
[see source text or glossary: Nature]
71) Powder:
[see source text or glossary: Powder]
72) Desire:
[see source text or glossary: Desire]
73) Murdha (Murdhan):
[see source text or glossary: Murdha]
74) Kalka:
[see source text or glossary: Kalka]
75) Matra:
[see source text or glossary: Matra]
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 90]
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Ayurvedic Treatment for Severe Dry Eye Syndrome: A Case Study�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Nasya, Shirodhara, Tarpana, Shushkakshipaka, Burning sensation, Ayurvedic treatment, Corneal blindness, Visual acuity, Blurring of vision, Dry eye syndrome, Ocular surface disorder, Tear film break-up time, Photophobia, Ocular discomfort, Eye pain, Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, Schirmer 1 Test, Eye fatigue, Medicinal ghrita, Vision problems.