A CRITICAL REVIEW OF KHALITYA AND PALITYA IN BRHATTRAYI: CLASSICAL CONCEPTS AND CONTEMPORARY PERSPECTIVES

Abstract

Hair disorders such as Khalitya (hair loss) and Palitya (premature greying of hair) have been described extensively in the classical Ayurvedic literature and continue to pose significant cosmetic and psychosocial concerns in contemporary society. The Brhattrayi, comprising Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Ashtanga Hrdaya, presents comprehensive descriptions of their etiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and management based on the fundamental principles of Dosha, Dhatu, and Srotas. Although these conditions are frequently discussed in modern dermatology, the classical Ayurvedic concepts remain scattered across different chapters, making an integrated understanding challenging. The present review critically examines the descriptions of Khalitya and Palitya in the Brhattrayi and systematically compares the viewpoints of the three major treatises. Particular emphasis is placed on the classical concepts of Nidana, Samprapti, Lakshana, Cikitsa Siddhanta, and preventive measures while highlighting the unique contributions of each text. Contemporary scientific evidence related to hair biology, androgenetic alopecia, and premature hair greying is briefly reviewed to explore their conceptual relevance with Ayurvedic principles without compromising the original textual interpretations. This review aims to provide a concise yet comprehensive synthesis of classical knowledge, facilitate better understanding among Ayurvedic scholars and clinicians, and identify potential areas for future interdisciplinary research. The article also emphasizes the continuing significance of the Brhattrayi in guiding evidence-informed Ayurvedic approaches for maintaining healthy hair and managing disorders affecting hair growth and pigmentation.