A REVIEW ON THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF TRIPHALA MASHI IN KESA VIKARA W.S.R TO INDRALUPTA

Abstract

Ayurveda has described diseases related to hair (kesa vikaras) under Sirorogas and kshudra rogas such as Khalitya, Palitya, Indralupta etc. Indralupta is a specific condition characterized by hair loss in the form of bald patches in some scalp areas by the vitiation of Tridosha and rakta dhatu. Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease mediated by T-lymphocytes directed against hair follicles. The clinical features described in the classics of Ayurveda for Indralupta and that of Alopecia areata mentioned in the modern science are almost identical. Hence Indralupta can be equated to Alopecia areata. The treatment for Alopecia areata mainly includes corticosteroids, topical immunotherapy and phototherapy. Ayurveda suggests surgical procedures like Siravyadha, Pracchanna, Lekhana and Jalaukavacharana in Indralupta. Large numbers of drugs for external application in the form of herbal, mineral and single drugs are also described. The advantage of mashi kalpana requires special attention as Hastidantamashi is mentioned in the context of Indralupta. Triphala mashi is one such preparation which has efficacy in the management of Indralupta as understood by reviewing classical literature and research works.

Key words: Kesa vikara, Indralupta, Alopecia areata, Triphala mashi