A CLINICAL STUDY ON JALOUKAVACHARANA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF VATAJA ABHISHYANDA W.S.R. TO ALLERGIC CONJUNCTIVITIS

Abstract

Allergic conjunctivitis is the inflammation of conjunctiva due to allergic or hypersensitivity reactions which may be immediate or delayed. Among the 17 Sarvagata Netra Roga, Abhishyanda is one which is classified on the basis of Doshic predominance. Vataja Abhishyanda is characterized by Toda (pricking sensation), Stambha (rigidity), Romaharsha (horripulation), Sangharsha (foreign body sensation), Parushyata (roughness), Shiroabhitapa (headache), Vishushkabhava (feeling of dryness), Shishirashruta (lacrimation), Alpa Shophata (mild chemosis). Based on signs and symptoms, Vataja abhishyanda can be correlated to Allergic conjunctivitis. Acharya Vagbhata states that Syanda develops from the profound vitiation of Rakta and it should be cleared quickly through Shodhana procedure like Raktamokshana, in which Jaloukavacharana is said to be best.

A Randomised clinical study was taken up to scientifically validate the effect  Jaloukavacharana wherein 20 patients of Vataja Abhishyanda were selected. Patients were treated with 2 sittings of Jaloukavacharana with an interval of 5 days. Parameters considered for study includes Nistoda (Pricking sensation), Sangharsha (Foreign body sensation), Shishirashruta (Lacrimation), Raga (Congestion). Prakasha Asahishnuta (Photophobia), Vartma Sopha (Odema), presence of papillae. The effect of treatment was statistically analyzed using Paired student’s ‘t’–test. On comparing the t-values, better effect on all the considered parameters were noted which shows highly significant results and hence Jaloukavacharana is an effective modality of treatment which can be adopted in Vataja Abhishyanda where Shodhana is considered to be the best line of treatment.