Conceptual Study of Haritaki and Shunthi Churna Bidalaka in Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis

Abstract

Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a chronic, bilateral corneal and conjunctival problem which typically presents in young individuals. VKC is characterized by itching, photophobia, white mucous discharge, lacrimation, foreign body sensation, and pain due to corneal involvement of shield ulcers. Vernal keratoconjunctivitis is categorized within ocular diseases. The diagnosis is clinical, as no sure biomarkers pathognomonic of the disease have yet been identified. The VKC therapy relies on different types of drugs, from antihistamines and topical steroids to cyclosporine or tacrolimus eye drops. In extremely rare cases, there is also the need for surgical treatment for the debridement of ulcers, as well as for advanced glaucoma and cataracts, caused by excessive prolonged use of steroid eye drops.This condition can be correlated with Kaphaja Abhishyanda in Ayurvedic texts. Owing to the symptoms and signs, the case was diagnosed as Kaphaja Abhishyanda/VKC. Hence this patient was treated with Kriyakalpa (ocular therapeutic procedures) Haritaki and Sunthi Churna Bidalaka which gave significant results and found useful in the management of Vernal keratoconjunctivitis.

According to Ayurvedic principles, the spring season is when Kapha prakopa (Kapha vitiation) occurs, which is indicated by the name of the ailment, spring catarrh. The Kapha dominant stage of life is childhood, and the disease's clinical signs resemble those of Kaphaja Abhishyanda. Kaphaja Abhishyanda and VKC share a striking clinical similarity. Thus, there is an increasing need to understand the disease in view of Ayurveda and to establish the management through Ayurvedic system of medicine