Ayurvedic Management of Pakshmashata (Madarosis): A Case Report

Abstract

Madarosis is characterised by either complete or partial loss of eyebrow or eyelash hair. Hair loss occurs due to interrupted blood supply to that region. In contemporary medicine, the management of madarosis includes hair transplant surgery or the use of steroids. There is no direct correlation to madarosis in Ayurveda; however, concepts like “Pakshmashata” described by Acharya Vagbhata exhibit symptoms that closely resemble this condition. In the present case report, a 30-year-old female patient presented to the Outpatient Department (OPD) of Kayachikitsa, complaining of sudden hair loss over the past month, accompanied by itching and a burning sensation in the affected area. A physical examination was conducted, and the patient was diagnosed with Pakshmashata. The treatment included Asthi Majja Pachak Kwath (a decoction for bone and bone marrow tissues), along with Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) and Haridra (Curcuma longa), as well as a local paste (lepa). Jaloka Avcharan (leech therapy) was administered to the patient twice a month. For local application, Snehana (oil massage) with Eranda (Ricinus communis), taila was used three times a day. Significant improvement in hair growth in the affected area was observed during follow-ups on the 45th and 60th days.

Keywords

• alopecia areata
• asthi majja pachak kwath (decocotion for bone and bone marrow tissues)
• jaloka avcharan (leech therapy)
• madarosis
• rakta dushti (impure blood)