Alopecia Areata Associated with Chronic Toxic Exposure (Garavisha): A Case Report on Ayurvedic Detoxification and Hair Regrowth
Author : Dr. Bhimashankar Upase and Dr. Sunila Deo
Abstract :
Introduction: Alopecia Areata, known as Indralupta in Ayurveda, is characterized by sudden patchy hair loss. Ayurveda attributes such conditions to various aetiologies, including Garvish Hetu (toxic dietary factors), which can vitiate Doshas and obstruct Srotas, leading to dysfunction of the hair follicles.
Case Presentation: A 35-year-old male presented with a scalp patch of hair loss that had been present for over one year. The patient reported a chronic history of Viruddhahara (incompatible dietary habits) such as consuming milk with banana and hot water with honey, identified in Ayurveda as contributing to Garvish Hetu. Dashavidha Pariksha (tenfold examination) revealed features suggestive of Kapha-Pitta Dushti and Ama accumulation.
Intervention and Outcomes: The patient was managed with an integrative Ayurvedic protocol consisting of oral Haridra Churna and Triphala Churna for Garvisha Nirharana (detoxification) and Agnideepana, along with topical application of Japapushpa Gomutra Lepa as per Basavarajeeyam. Over two months, significant hair regrowth was observed, with a reduction in local inflammation and restoration of scalp health. The patient also reported an improvement in self-confidence and quality of life.
Discussion: This case underscores the importance of identifying Garvish Hetu and applying principles of Agadatantra (clinical toxicology) in Ayurvedic dermatology. The tailored approach based on Dashavidha Pariksha facilitated individualized care, emphasizing detoxification and Dosha pacification to address the underlying pathogenesis.
Conclusion: Ayurvedic management incorporating Garvisha Nirharana and Twak-Dosha Shamana demonstrated promising results in this case of Indralupta. This highlights the role of classical diagnostic and therapeutic principles in addressing dermatological disorders of toxic origin.
Keywords :
Alopecia Areata, Case Report, Curcuma longa (Haridra), Detoxification, Hibiscus Rosa-sinensis (Japapushpa), Medicine, Physiological, Toxicity Chronic (Garavisha hetu), Traditional.
