Abstract

RETINITIS PIGMENTOSA: A AYURVEDIC REVIEW

Dr. Minal Rahinj*, Dr. Atri Ghosh

Abstract

Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) is a group of hereditary retinal degenerative disorders characterized by progressive photoreceptor loss, beginning with rod dysfunction followed by cone degeneration. Clinically, RP presents with night blindness, concentric visual field loss, and eventual central vision impairment. Ayurveda does not describe RP as a single disease entity, yet its features correlate strongly with Timira, Kacha, Lingānāśha, Dṛiṣhṭi-mandala gata vyādhi, and Dhatukshaya janya netraroga. The condition manifests through Vāta-Pitta vitiation, Alochaka Pitta kṣaya, Majjā dhātu kṣaya, and Srotorodha. Ayurvedic management aims at slowing disease progression, enhancing retinal nourishment, promoting optic nerve function, and improving the remaining vision. This article reviews the Ayurvedic pathophysiology of RP and highlights Panchakarma, Rasayana, and ocular therapies that may support affected individuals.

Keywords: Retinitis Pigmentosa, Timira, Kacha, Vāta-Pitta, Alochaka Pitta, Netra Tarpana, Panchakarma, Rasayana.