Abstract

ALOPECIA AREATA MANAGED SOLELY THROUGH INTERNAL AYURVEDIC INTERVENTION: A CASE REPORT

Lukesha Annadate, Ashwin Ashok Shete*, Payal Wavhal, Nilima Dharkar, Sachin Rohani

Abstract

Background: Alopecia Areata is a Chronic Autoimmune disorder charachterized by non-scarring patchy hair loss, often associated with psychological distress and recurrent episodes. In ayurveda, the condition can be correlated with Indralupta, which is attributed to the vitiation of Doṣa and Rakta, leading to hair loss and impaired regrowth. Case Presentation: A 30-year old female presented with patchy scalp hair loss of four years duration, associated with constipation and flatulence. Previous treatment with intralesional corticosteroid injections, biotin, and zinc supplementation provided only temporary relief. Based on ayurvedic assessment, the condition was diagnosed as Indralupta with predominance of Pitta-Kapha Doṣa, Rakta Duṣṭi (Vitiation of blood), and Agnimāndya (digestive impairment). Intervention: The patient was treated with Ayurvedic internal medications, namely Ārogyavardhinī Vaṭi(tablet), Kṛmikuṭhāra Rasa, and Raktapācaka Cūrṇa, along with appropriate dietary and lifestyle modifications. Results: Visible hair regrowth was observed after 45 days of treatment. Progressive improvement continued throughout the treatment period, and the alopecia patches were largely covered by four months. The baseline Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) SCORE of 63.4% (S3 grade) showed marked clinical improvement. No recurrence was observed during six months of follow-up after completion of therapy. Conclusion: This case demonstrates the potential role of Ayurvedic internal medication in the management of Indralupta (alopecia areata). A holistic approach targeting Dosha imbalance, Agnimāndya and Rakta Duṣṭi (Vitiation of blood) may contribute to sustained hair regrowth and reduced recurrence.

Keywords: Alopecia Areata, Indralupta, Ayurvedic Management, Agnimāndya, Rakta Duṣṭi, Case Report.