Abstract

RASAYANA DRUGS IN OCULAR HEALTH (NETRA ROGA): SCOPE AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE – A NARRATIVE AYURVEDIC REVIEW

*Dr. Ajay Omprakash Kadam, Dr. Sujata Deepak Kate

Abstract

Background: Ocular disorders are increasing, and Ayurveda describes Rasayana and Chaksushya measures for eye health, but the scattered literature has not been consolidated. Objectives: To collate classical Rasayana concepts relevant to Netra roga and to appraise the modern evidence. Materials and Methods: A narrative review of the classical Ayurvedic literature and relevant published sources. Results: Classical texts attribute to Rasayana the strengthening of the indriyas. Chaksushya drugs (Amalaki, Triphala, Yastimadhu, Shatavari), medicated Ghrita and Netra Kriyakalpa (Tarpana, Ashcyotana, Anjana) are the main strategies. Experimental studies of Triphala and Amalaki show antioxidant and anti-diabeticcomplication effects. Small clinical studies of Ghrita preparations in dry eye and allergic conjunctivitis report symptomatic benefit but are limited by size, blinding and follow-up. Ocular evidence for Rasausadhi is absent, and quality concerns exist. Conclusion: Rasayana offers a coherent preventive framework for ocular health, but its clinical claims remain hypotheses requiring standardised formulations and rigorous randomised trials.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Chaksushya drugs, Ocular rejuvenation, Rasayana Chikitsa, Netra Roga.