Shigru-Pallavadi Taila for Karnanaad: A Comprehensive Ayurvedic and Phytochemical Based Conceptual Review

Abstract

Shigrupallavadi Taila is a traditional Ayurvedic formulation described in Arogya Kalpadruma, renowned for its therapeutic applications in Karnanaad. Being administered through Nasya, Karnapuran and Abhyanga, this polyherbal oil combines the pharmacodynamic strengths of 8 ayurvedic ingredients. Karna Nada, one of the Karnagata Rogas described in Shalakya Tantra, is characterized by the perception of sound without external auditory stimuli and is primarily attributed to Vata vitiation in the Karna or Shabdavaha Srotas. This condition parallels tinnitus, a multifactorial auditory disorder increasingly prevalent in the modern era due to widespread exposure to noise, stress, and electromagnetic radiation. Ayurveda provides a well-defined prognosis and therapeutic framework for Karna Nada, emphasizing Vata-shamana and Srotoshodhana measures. Objective: To critically review classical, pharmacodynamic, and phytochemical aspects of Shigrupallavadi Taila and establish its therapeutic plausibility in Karnanada. Results: Shigrupallavadi Taila, contains a synergistic combination of Vata-pacifying, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, microcirculation-enhancing, and neuroprotective herbs. Modern phytochemicals such as quercetin, apigenin, sesamin, glycyrrhizin, β-sitosterol, and essential oils support its classical claims. Administration via Nasya, Karna Purana, and Shiro-abhyanga ensures targeted delivery to Urdhvajatru tissues. The formulation shows strong mechanistic relevance for alleviating cochlear inflammation, neural hyperexcitability, oxidative stress, and aberrant auditory signalling. Conclusion: Shigrupallavadi Taila emerges as a promising Ayurvedic intervention for Vata-dominant auditory disorders like Karnanada. Its classical rationale is strongly supported by modern phytochemical evidence. Structured non-clinical and clinical studies are recommended to validate its therapeutic efficacy.