Abstract

CHEILOSCOPY AND CONSTITUTIONAL TYPOLOGY: A CROSS-SECTIONAL EVALUATION OF AYURVEDIC PRAKRITI USING SUZUKI AND TSUCHIHASHI CLASSIFICATION

Dr. Riya Joy*, Dr. Amal Thomas

Abstract

Introduction: Cheiloscopy, the study of lip print patterns, has emerged as a valuable tool in forensic science, anthropology, and morphology due to its non-invasive nature and the uniqueness of lip markings. Each individual possesses distinct grooves, fissures, and furrows that remain stable throughout life unless altered by trauma. Despite the recognized individuality of both cheiloscopic patterns and prakriti, limited research has attempted to establish a correlation between the two. This study was undertaken to explore the relationship between lip print types and prakriti and assess whether specific constitutional types display identifiable morphological tendencies. Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted on 300 healthy volunteers selected through convenient sampling. Participants with lip deformities, injuries, active lesions, or a history of cosmetic alteration were excluded to ensure undistorted pattern visibility. Lip impressions were recorded using a standardized method involving the application of a uniform layer of lipstick and gentle transfer onto cellophane tape. These impressions were then affixed to white bond paper for clarity. Each print was classified according to the Suzuki and Tsuchihashi system into six categories: Prakriti Assessment-Prakriti evaluation was conducted using a validated questionnaire covering physical, physiological, and psychological attributes, followed by expert assessment. Results: Type III was the most common lip print pattern across all prakriti groups. Type IV was more frequent in PK and PV, Type I and I′ in KP and KV, while Type V was occasionally seen in Vata-dominant constitutions. Discussion: Type III lip prints were predominant across all prakriti groups, indicating a common developmental pattern. Type IV patterns were more common in Pitta-dominant prakriti (PK, PV), while Kapha-dominant types (KP, KV) showed higher frequencies of Type I and I′ patterns, possibly reflecting their respective constitutional traits.

Keywords: Cheiloscopy, lip patterns, prakriti, Suzuki and Tsuchihashi system.