Wet Cupping and Rasayana Chikitsa for Alopecia Areata Management
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Effect of Wet Cupping with Rasayana Chikitsa in Management of Alopecia Areata (Indralupt)
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Pooja Kalal
PG Scholar, Department of Panchkarma, PGIA, DSRRAU, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India.
Gyan P. Sharma
Associate Professor & HOD., Department of Panchkarma, PGIA, DSRRAU, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India.
Achla R. Kumavat
Assistant Professor, Department of Panchkarma, PGIA, DSRRAU, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India.
Sandeep K. Swami
PG Scholar, Department of Panchkarma, PGIA, DSRRAU, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Effect of Wet Cupping with Rasayana Chikitsa in Management of Alopecia Areata (Indralupt)
Year: 2024 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v11i2.1514
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
1) Introduction
Alopecia areata, referred to as Indralupt in Ayurveda, is a common dermatological condition characterized by localized, non-scarring hair loss in distinct patches, primarily on the scalp. The condition is thought to be influenced by autoimmune factors, though its exact cause remains uncertain. Traditional management typically involves a combination of treatments, including corticosteroids, but often fails to yield fully preventive or curative outcomes. In Ayurveda, alopecia is associated with imbalances among the Tridosha (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) and vitiated Rakta Dushya, suggesting that targeted Ayurvedic interventions could offer effective alternatives.
2) Raktamokshana: A Key Therapeutic Procedure
Raktamokshana, specifically through methods like Prachchana (wet cupping), is considered a vital treatment approach in Ayurveda for conditions like alopecia areata. This technique involves making several pricks on the affected area, allowing for the removal of vitiated blood and thereby alleviating the obstruction in hair follicles. The therapeutic use of cupping promotes enhanced blood circulation, facilitating the removal of toxins from the area and is believed to improve overall blood quality. This method aligns with principles outlined by ancient Ayurvedic texts, proposing that balanced doshas can lead to the resolution of hair loss.
3) Healing through Rasayana Chikitsa
The study examined the use of Rasayana Chikitsa alongside wet cupping therapy in treating alopecia areata, utilizing two main therapeutic agents: Amalaki Rasayana and Triphala Churna. Amalaki, known for its rejuvenating and nourishing properties, is effective in balancing the three doshas and promoting healthy hair growth. Triphala serves as a crucial formula that enhances digestion and nutrition absorption, thereby supporting overall metabolic processes. Both formulations contribute synergistically to reversing the effects of alopecia areata by addressing both local and systemic health needs.
4) Conclusion
The case study highlights the successful management of alopecia areata through a combination of wet cupping therapy and supportive Ayurvedic treatments over the course of one month. Significant improvements in hair growth were observed after each session, culminating in complete regrowth after three treatments. This approach underlines the potential of integrating traditional Ayurvedic methods with modern therapeutic perspectives for managing conditions like alopecia areata, offering an alternative pathway that emphasizes holistic healing and balance among the body's systems.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the primary treatment for alopecia areata in Ayurveda?
In Ayurveda, alopecia areata, known as Indralupt, is primarily treated with Raktamokshana, which involves blood-letting techniques such as wet cupping. This therapy aims to remove vitiated blood and restore balance among the bodily doshas.
How effective is wet cupping for treating alopecia areata?
Wet cupping has proven effective in promoting significant hair growth in patients with alopecia areata. In a case study, notable hair regrowth was observed after just one session and completely after three sessions combined with Rasayana chikitsa.
What are the internal medicines used alongside the therapy?
The internal medicines prescribed include Amalaki Rasayana and Triphla Churna. Amalaki supports nourishing hair and balancing doshas, while Triphla aids in digestion and rejuvenation, contributing to overall health and complementing the external treatment.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Wet Cupping and Rasayana Chikitsa for Alopecia Areata Management�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Hair:
Hair is the focus of the study, specifically addressing alopecia areata, a condition characterized by non-scarring hair loss. The text discusses the success of wet cupping therapy and internal Rasayan drugs in promoting hair regrowth over a series of sessions.
2) Blood:
Blood plays a vital role in the described therapy. The procedure involves wet cupping to remove 'Dushit Rakt' from beneath the skin's surface, aimed at alleviating alopecia areata symptoms. It also discusses 'Raktamokshana', or blood-letting, as a primary treatment.
3) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, which represents metabolic activity in the body. Imbalances in Pitta, along with Vata and Kapha, are considered contributing factors to alopecia areata. In Ayurvedic treatment, balancing Pitta is crucial for managing the condition.
4) Rakta:
Rakta, or blood, is identified as a crucial Dushya (impurity) involved in the manifestation of alopecia areata. The therapy 'Raktamokshana' aims to remove vitiated Rakta through techniques like wet cupping, thereby helping restore normal hair growth.
5) Dosha (Dosa):
Doshas are fundamental principles in Ayurveda representing physiological states. The text specifically discusses Vata, Pitta, and Kapha Doshas. Their imbalance contributes to alopecia areata, and Ayurvedic treatments aim to restore this balance.
6) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is the traditional Indian system of medicine discussed throughout the text. It provides the framework for understanding alopecia areata ('Indralupta') and prescribes treatments like 'Rasayana Chikitsa' and 'Raktamokshana' for managing the condition.
7) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana refers to rejuvenative treatments in Ayurveda aimed at promoting longevity and vitality. In the context of the text, internal Rasayana drugs like Amalaki Rasayan are used to enhance the treatment of alopecia areata by improving overall health.
8) Amalaki:
Amalaki is a significant herb in Ayurveda, particularly valued for its Rasayana or rejuvenative properties. The text mentions its usage in 'Amalaki Rasayan' to aid in the internal treatment of alopecia areata, helping balance Doshas and nourish hair.
9) Kapha:
Kapha is another primary Dosha in Ayurveda, associated with structure and lubrication in the body. Imbalances in Kapha, along with Vata and Pitta, are implicated in causing alopecia areata, according to the text's discussion on Ayurvedic treatments.
10) Vata:
Vata is one of the three primary Doshas in Ayurveda, responsible for movement and physiological functions. The text identifies an imbalance in Vata as one of the factors contributing to alopecia areata and stresses the importance of maintaining its balance.
11) Raktamokshana (Raktamoksana, Rakta-mokshana):
[see source text or glossary: Rakta-mokshana]
12) Disease:
Alopecia Areata, a dermatological condition characterized by patchy hair loss, is the primary disease discussed in the text. The article investigates its management through Ayurvedic treatments like wet cupping and Rasayana Chikitsa.
13) Rasa (Rasha):
[see source text or glossary: Rasa]
14) Blood letting:
[see source text or glossary: Blood letting]
15) Blood-letting:
[see source text or glossary: Blood-letting]
16) Dushya (Dusya):
[see source text or glossary: Dushya]
17) Kaphadosha (Kaphadosa, Kapha-dosha):
[see source text or glossary: Kapha-dosha]
18) Siravedha (Sira-vedha):
[see source text or glossary: Siravedha]
19) Tridosha (Tridosa, Tri-dosha):
[see source text or glossary: Tridosha]
20) Aushadhi (Ausadhi, Aushadhin, Ausadhin):
[see source text or glossary: Aushadhi]
21) Shringa (Srnga, Shrimga):
[see source text or glossary: Shringa]
22) Keshya (Kesya):
Keshya refers to substances or treatments beneficial for hair. In the text, Amalaki Rasayan is noted for its Keshya properties, making it an effective component of Rasayana Chikitsa for treating alopecia areata by nourishing and promoting hair growth.
23) Srotas (Shrotas):
Srotas in Ayurveda are channels in the body through which nutrients and waste products flow. The text discusses how treatments like Rasayana improve Srotas' efficiency, thereby aiding in the management of alopecia areata.
24) Family:
Family is mentioned in the case report section, where the patient's medical history is reviewed. It states that no family history of alopecia areata or other autoimmune conditions was observed, indicating a lack of genetic predisposition.
25) Cotton:
Cotton balls or swabs are part of the materials used in the wet cupping therapy described in the text. They are used for sterilizing the area of hair loss before and after the cupping procedure, ensuring cleanliness and preventing infection.
26) Alabu:
Alabu, or gourd wet fire cupping, is one of the methods mentioned for performing Raktamokshana in Ayurveda. The text includes Alabu Avacharan as a form of wet cupping therapy used to treat alopecia areata by removing vitiated blood.
27) Pooja:
Pooja Kalal is one of the authors of the article, a PG Scholar involved in the study that investigates the effectiveness of wet cupping and Rasayana Chikitsa in managing alopecia areata, contributing key insights and findings.
28) Inflammation:
[see source text or glossary: Inflammation]
29) Asthidhatu (Asthi-dhatu):
[see source text or glossary: Asthi-dhatu]
30) Pittadosha (Pittadosa, Pitta-dosha):
[see source text or glossary: Pitta-dosha]
31) Raktadhatu (Rakta-dhatu):
[see source text or glossary: Raktadhatu]
32) Vatapitta (Vata-pitta):
[see source text or glossary: Vata-pitta]
33) Discussion:
The discussion section elaborates on how 'Raktamokshana' procedures like 'Prachchanna' expel vitiated Doshas, promoting hair regrowth in alopecia areata. It also highlights the physiological benefits of cupping in improving blood flow and removing toxins.
34) Samprapti:
[see source text or glossary: Samprapti]
35) Rajasthan:
Rajasthan, India, is the location of the study, specifically Jodhpur. The study was conducted by the Department of Panchkarma at PGIA, DSRRAU, Jodhpur, showcasing Ayurvedic treatments' effectiveness for alopecia areata at local medical facilities.
36) Vatadosha (Vatadosa, Vata-dosha):
[see source text or glossary: Vatadosha]
37) Samjivani (Sanjivani):
Sanjivani Ayurveda Hospital in Jodhpur is where the case study took place. It provided the clinical setting for performing wet cupping therapy and administering Rasayana Chikitsa to treat the patient's alopecia areata.
38) Triphala (Tri-phala):
Triphala is an Ayurvedic formulation used in this study for its digestive and rejuvenative properties. The text mentions prescribing Triphala Churn as part of the internal medication to aid in the optimal absorption of nutrients and overall health.
39) Mokshana (Moksana):
[see source text or glossary: Mokshana]
40) Jalauka:
Jalauka, or leech therapy, is one of the methods mentioned for Ayurvedic wet cupping under 'Raktamokshana'. It involves using leeches to remove vitiated blood, suggesting another avenue for treating localized conditions like alopecia areata.
41) Ayushya (Ayusya):
Ayushya means promoting longevity. In the context of the text, Amalaki is highlighted by Acharya Charak for its Ayushya properties, making it part of the Ayurvedic approach in Rasayana Chikitsa for enhancing overall health and treating alopecia areata.
42) Kashaya (Kasaya):
[see source text or glossary: Kashaya]
43) Ruksha (Ruksa):
[see source text or glossary: Ruksha]
44) Vipaka:
[see source text or glossary: Vipaka]
45) Koshtha (Kostha):
[see source text or glossary: Kostha]
46) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Gyan P. Sharma is one of the authors, serving as Associate Professor & HOD in the Department of Panchkarma at PGIA, DSRRAU, Jodhpur. Sharma's role involves overseeing the study and contributing expert insights into Ayurvedic treatments for alopecia areata.
47) Asthi (Ashthi):
[see source text or glossary: Asthi]
48) Krura:
[see source text or glossary: Krura]
49) Dhatu:
[see source text or glossary: Dhatu]
50) India:
India is the country where the study was conducted, specifically at Sanjivani Ayurveda Hospital in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. The study highlights the effectiveness of traditional Indian Ayurvedic treatments for managing alopecia areata.
51) Ayus (Ayush):
[see source text or glossary: Ayush]
52) Pulse:
[see source text or glossary: Pulse]
53) Svamin (Swami, Svami, Swamin):
Sandeep K. Swami is one of the co-authors of the study, a PG Scholar. Swami contributes to the research on the effectiveness of wet cupping and Rasayana Chikitsa in managing alopecia areata, providing valuable data and observations.
54) Agni:
Agni refers to the digestive and metabolic fire in Ayurveda. Improving Agni is essential for the efficacy of Rasayanas like Amalaki. The text indicates that enhancing Agni aids in better digestion and assimilation, crucial for treating alopecia areata.
55) Guna:
[see source text or glossary: Guna]
56) Horn:
[see source text or glossary: Horn]
57) Fire:
[see source text or glossary: Fire]
58) Sour:
[see source text or glossary: Sour]
59) Drug:
[see source text or glossary: Drug]
60) Gyana (Gyan):
Gyan P. Sharma is cited as one of the authors, bringing expertise as an Associate Professor and HOD in the Department of Panchkarma at PGIA, DSRRAU, Jodhpur. Sharma's work contributes significantly to the study on Ayurvedic treatments for alopecia areata.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Wet Cupping and Rasayana Chikitsa for Alopecia Areata Management�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Tridosha, Shrota, Rasayana-chikitsa, Nutritional deficiencies, Amalaki Rasayana, Alopecia areata, Rasa and Rakta, Raktamokshan, Shaman Aushadhi, Wet cupping.