World Journal of
Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences

COMPREHENSIVE EFFECT OF AYURVEDIC TREATMENT IN THE MANAGEMENT OF INDRALUPTA (ALOPECIA AREATA): A SINGLE CASE STUDY

Dr. Sukritha Y. N.*, Dr. Syed Munawar Pasha

ABSTRACT

Background: Indralupta is a well-described disorder in the classical Ayurvedic texts, categorized under K?hudra Roga or Kapalagata Roga, characterized by patchy loss of hair over the scalp or other hair-bearing areas. The condition closely resembles alopecia areata and other non-scarring alopecia described in contemporary dermatology. Ayurveda explains Indralupta through the derangement of Do?has, particularly Pitta and Vata, leading to hair fall, followed by obstruction of hair follicles due to Kapha and Rakta, which prevents regrowth. Aim: To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of a comprehensive Ayurvedic treatment protocol, including Shodhana and Shamana therapies, in a patient with Indralupta. Methods: D?pana–Pachana was initiated with Chitrakadi Va?i to improve digestion and metabolism. Pracchana Karma was performed over the alopecic patches to eliminate localized do?a and rakta du?h?i, followed by topical application of Icchabhedi Rasa to clear follicular obstruction. Takradhara with medicated takra prepared using Musta, Amalaki, and Jatamamsi was administered to pacify Pitta and Kapha. For systemic management, internal medications—Arogyavardhini Va?i, Mahamanji??hadi Kashaya, Lakshadi guggulu and Narasimha rasayana—were prescribed to correct systemic do?ha imbalance, enhance metabolism, purify rakta, and nourish dhatus. Neelibh?ingadi Taila was advised for regular scalp application to support follicular nourishment and hair growth. Results: The patient demonstrated marked clinical improvement, evidenced by a significant reduction in the SALT score (patch size), increased hair density, and restoration of follicular activity over the treatment period. No adverse effects were observed, and the therapeutic response remained stable throughout the follow-up period. Conclusion: The integrative Ayurvedic regimen focusing on Agnideepana, Do?ha Shamana, Srotoshodana, local therapeutic stimulation, support proved effective in the management of Indralupta. The observed clinical improvement suggests that such treatment protocols may serve as a safe, holistic, and effective alternative in the management of Alopecia Areata.

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