Ayurvedic Intervention for Age-Related Physiological Insufficiency of Accommodation: Clinical Efficacy of Chandanadya Varti and Madhukadi Lauha Churna

Abstract

Shalakya Tantra, a branch of Ayurveda, emphasizes ocular health, with Timira classified as a progressive visual disorder. Objective: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of Chandanadya Varti (Anjana) and Madhukadi Lauha Churna (tablet) in the management of Timira, with special reference to age-related physiological insufficiency of accommodation. Materials and Methods: A prospective, single-group clinical study was conducted on 40 patients (80 eyes) aged 30–50 years with presbyopia. Patients received Chandanadya Varti applied in the lower fornices and Madhukadi Lauha Churna orally for 30 days, following pre-treatment Deepana–Pachana and Kostha Shuddhi protocols. Subjective parameters included blurred near vision (dim and daylight), eye strain, and headache, while objective parameters included near visual acuity and amplitude of accommodation. Outcomes were assessed using a standardized grading and scoring system, and statistical analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test. Results: Post-treatment, significant improvement was observed in all subjective and objective parameters: blurred near vision in dim light (22%, P<0.001), blurred near vision in daylight (23.5%, P<0.001), eye strain (35.8%, P<0.05), headache (34.9%, P=0.007), near visual acuity (35.2%, P<0.001), and amplitude of accommodation (43.9%, P<0.001). The therapeutic effects were attributed to the antioxidant, Rasayana, Chakshushya, and Tridosha-balancing properties of the formulations. No adverse effects were reported. Conclusion: Chandanadya Varti and Madhukadi Lauha Churna effectively improve near vision, reduce ocular discomfort, and enhance accommodation in patients with Timira/presbyopia. The treatment is safe, well-tolerated, and may serve as a promising Ayurvedic approach for age-related accommodative insufficiency.