Abstract

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF INDRALUPTA (ALOPECIA AREATA) A CASE STUDY

Dr. Ravindra Kumar* and Dr. S. M. Pasha

.

Abstract

Indralupta is one of the Urdhwajatrugata Vyadhi characterized by the patchy hair loss over hair-bearing skin that includes scalp and beard. According to Sushruta Acharya, Indralupta is due to the vitiated pitta in association with vitiated Vata[1] causing the falling of hairs from the scalp and vitiated Rakta and Kapha block the orifices of the hair follicles which restricts the growth of new hair. Indralupta is explained under Kapalgatarogas by Acharya Vagbhata. Whereas Madhavanidana, Yogaratnakara and Sushruta explained it under Kshudraroga.Alopecia areata is autoimmune disease presented as nonscarring, circumscribed, smooth patch of hair loss.[2] The main treatment for Alopecia Areata in modern medical science is steroid. Shodhana (Raktamokshana) and Shamana Chikitsa is advised for the Indralupta in ayurveda classics. In this present case study 23 years old female patient is treated with Pracchanna Karma (Raktamokshana) followed by Icchabedi rasa Lepa along with internal medicine. The therapy has shown a remarkable improvement in the signs of Indralupta. The patient obtained considerable relief from the symptoms through the therapy. The treatment proved to be easy, economical, highly effective with in short duration.

Keywords: Indralupta, Prachanna, Icchabedi rasa, shirodhara, Brungaraja tail, Alopecia areata.