Article: THERAPEUTIC EFFICACY OF RAKTAMOKSHANA AND SHAMANA CHIKITSA IN THE AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF INDRALUPTA (ALOPECIA AREATA): A CASE REPORT

Article Category: Case Reports

DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.166209

Pages: 37-41

Author: Sapna Thakur *, Poona Nath Chouhan

Abstract: Introduction: This case report presents a unique successful management of autoimmune hair loss (Indralupta/Alopecia Areata) in a young adult using an integrated Ayurvedic approach, achieving complete resolution within 2 months. The case demonstrates the potential efficacy of traditional Ayurvedic methods combining purification and palliative therapies for managing autoimmune conditions. Patient Concerns: A 19-year-old female student presented with sudden onset patchy scalp hair loss persisting for three months, accompanied by constipation and loss of appetite. Previous treatments with various medications had provided no significant relief. Diagnosis: Based on clinical presentation and examination findings, the patient was diagnosed with Indralupta (Alopecia Areata). Ayurvedic assessment revealed Pitta-Vata vitiation with Rakta Dushti (vitiation of blood) affecting the Romakoopa (hair follicles). Interventions: Treatment consisted of five weekly sessions of Jalaukavacharana (leech therapy) as Shodhana Chikitsa (purification therapy), combined with comprehensive Shamana Chikitsa (pacification therapy) including internal medications (Krimihar Vati, Amalaki Rasayana, Triphala Guggulu, Arogyavardhini Vati, Vidangarishta, Manjishthadi Kwatha), topical application of Triphala Mashi, and structured dietary and lifestyle modifications including Surya Namaskar and Pranayama practices. Outcomes: Complete hair regrowth was achieved within 2 months of treatment initiation. Concurrent gastrointestinal symptoms also resolved completely. No adverse effects were reported during the treatment period. Follow-up assessments showed sustained improvement with no recurrence of hair loss or associated symptoms. Conclusion: This case demonstrates that an integrated Ayurvedic approach combining Raktamokshana (bloodletting) and Shamana Chikitsa offers a safe, effective, and well-tolerated alternative for managing autoimmune hair loss, warranting further investigation through larger controlled studies.

Keyword: Alopecia Areata, Chikitsa, Indralupta, Jalaukavacharana, Raktamokshana, Shamana.