Abstract

A CLINICAL STUDY ON AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF ASTIGMATISM

*Dr. Hemlata Jain and Dr. Rohit Kumar Jain

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Abstract

Astigmatism is a common refractive error caused by a meridional asymmetry in the curvature of the eye's cornea or lens, leading to a corresponding asymmetric refraction of light rays. Astigmatism affects patients' visual acuity and contrast sensitivity at all light levels. Astigmatism correction is generally achieved using spectacles, contact lenses, toric intraocular lenses, toric implantable collamer lenses, or corneal refractive surgery. Till now there is no satisfactory treatment of astigmatism in modern science.[1] Hence, there is an earnest need for a cost effective remedy of the disorder under discussion, which should be free from any untoward effect. Ayurveda is a 'Science of Life'. It deals with each and every aspect of human life. It's first aim is to maintain the health and happiness while the next is to manage and restore the status of health and productive state of mind.[2] it has a rejuvenating medicine and herbs help to neutralize effects over eyes like strengthening eye muscles, making lens material elastic, and correcting the refractive error. Eye exercise and ayurvedic treatment help supportive in correcting refractive error.[3] The Tharpana is one of the procedure described in Ayurveda for eye diseases. It is highly powerful and rejuvenates the eyes.[4] In this therapy, the unctuous substances i.e. medicated lipid (mostly Ghrita ) is kept in the eye for a specific period surrounded by a layer of wet flour of pulse (Phaseolus radiatus).[5] Symptoms of refractive errors are comparable with Timira described in Ayurveda and can be successfully alleviated by Kriyakalpa[6] (specific ocular therapeutic procedures), coupled with some oral medication.

Keywords: Refractive errors, Ayurveda, Timira, Kriyakalpa, Nasya.