ROLE OF AYURVEDIC THERAPIES IN THE MANAGEMENT OF DRY EYE SYNDROME (SHUSHKAKSHIPAKA): A REVIEW STUDY
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22159/prl.ijayush.v15i06%20(June).2118Keywords:
Shushkakshipaka, Dry Eye Syndrome, Tarpana, Nasya, Netra Kriya Kalpa, Ocular Surface DiseaseAbstract
Background Dry Eye Syndrome is a multifactorial disorder of the ocular surface characterized by tear film instability, ocular discomfort, visual disturbances, and inflammation. The prevalence of dry eye has increased significantly due to prolonged screen exposure, environmental pollution, aging, contact lens use, and systemic diseases. In Ayurveda, Dry Eye Syndrome closely resembles Shushkakshipaka, a condition predominantly caused by aggravation of Vata and Pitta Dosha affecting the ocular tissues. Classical Ayurvedic texts describe various local and systemic therapeutic measures such as Tarpana, Putapaka, Aschyotana, Anjana, Nasya, and Rasayana Chikitsa for restoring ocular lubrication, nourishing eye structures, and improving visual function. These therapies provide a holistic approach by addressing the root cause and promoting long-term ocular health. Aim To review the role of Ayurvedic therapies in the management of Dry Eye Syndrome (Shushkakshipaka). Objectives To study the Ayurvedic concept of Shushkakshipaka. To review modern understanding of Dry Eye Syndrome. To evaluate the therapeutic role of Ayurvedic interventions. To explore integrative management strategies for dry eye disease. Materials and Methods Classical Ayurvedic texts including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, and ophthalmological literature were reviewed. Modern scientific articles related to Dry Eye Syndrome were analyzed through electronic databases. Relevant information was compiled and critically interpreted. Results and Discussion Ayurvedic therapies act by pacifying aggravated Doshas, enhancing ocular nutrition, and restoring tear film integrity. Their holistic action offers both symptomatic relief and long-term maintenance of ocular health. Conclusion Ayurvedic management provides a safe and effective approach for Dry Eye Syndrome. Integration of classical therapies with modern ocular care may improve treatment outcomes and quality of life.
References
Sushruta Samhita. Edited by Ambikadutta Shastri. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Sanskrit Sansthan; 2019. Uttara Tantra, Netra Roga Vijnaniya Adhyaya.
Kanski's Clinical Ophthalmology. Salmon JF. 9th ed. Edinburgh: Elsevier; 2020.
Craig JP, Nichols KK, Akpek EK, Caffery B, Dua HS, Joo CK, et al. TFOS DEWS II Definition and Classification Report. The Ocular Surface. 2017;15(3):276-283.
Ashtanga Hridaya. Vagbhata. Edited by Harishastri Paradkar. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Orientalia; 2018. Uttara Sthana, Netra Roga Adhyaya.
Charaka Samhita. Agnivesha. Revised by Charaka and Dridhabala. Edited by Yadavji Trikamji Acharya. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Surbharati Prakashan; 2020.
Sushruta Samhita. Edited by Ambikadutta Shastri. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Sanskrit Sansthan; 2019. Uttara Tantra, Sarvagata Netra Roga Adhyaya.
Ashtanga Sangraha. Vagbhata. Edited by Shivprasad Sharma. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Sanskrit Series Office; 2016.
Shastri AD. Sushruta Samhita of Maharshi Sushruta. Varanasi: Chaukhambha Sanskrit Sansthan; 2019. Uttara Tantra, Netra Roga Nidana Adhyaya.
Craig JP, Nichols KK, Akpek EK, Stapleton F, Caffery B, Dua HS, et al. TFOS DEWS II Pathophysiology Report. The Ocular Surface. 2017;15(3):438-510.
American Academy of Ophthalmology. Preferred Practice Pattern Guidelines: Dry Eye Syndrome. San Francisco: AAO; 2023.
Bron AJ, de Paiva CS, Chauhan SK, Bonini S, Gabison EE, Jain S, et al. TFOS DEWS II Pathophysiology Report. The Ocular Surface. 2017;15(3):438-510.
Nelson JD, Craig JP, Akpek EK, Azar DT, Belmonte C, Bron AJ, et al. TFOS DEWS II Introduction. The Ocular Surface. 2017;15(3):269-275.
Sahasrayogam. Alappuzha: Vidyarambham Publishers; 2017.
Gupta SK, Kalaiselvan V, Srivastava S, Agrawal SS, Saxena R. Clinical evaluation of Ayurvedic ocular therapies in the management of Dry Eye Syndrome: A review. AYU. 2019;40(2):125-131.
