Case Study: Saindhava Jala Seka and Triphala in Managing CV Syndrome
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Management of Computer Vision Syndrome with Saindhava Jala Seka and Triphala Ghritapana - A Case Study
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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Borkar Manasi R
PG Scholar, Dept. of Shalakyatantra, Sumatibhai Shah Ayurved Mahavidyalaya, Hadapsar, Pune, India.
Kotangale Sumedha Y
Assistant Professor, Dept. of Shalakyatantra, Sumatibhai Shah Ayurved Mahavidyalaya, Hadapsar, Pune, India.
Kotangale Yogesh T
Associate Professor, Dept. of Kayachikitsa, Sumatibhai Shah Ayurved Mahavidyalaya, Hadapsar, Pune, India.
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Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Management of Computer Vision Syndrome with Saindhava Jala Seka and Triphala Ghritapana - A Case Study
Year: 2021 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v8i5.779
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) is a complex of symptoms caused by prolonged screen time and poor posture during computer use. With increasing reliance on digital devices, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, the risk of developing visual disturbances has risen significantly. Ayurveda provides a framework for understanding these symptoms through the concept of Shushkakshipaka, a condition characterized by dryness and irritation of the eyes, which corresponds to imbalances of the Vata and Pitta doshas. This case study aims to investigate the efficacy of Ayurvedic treatments, specifically Saindhava Jala Seka (a type of eye wash) and Triphala Ghritapana (internal administration of a medicinal ghee), on alleviating the symptoms associated with CVS.
The Role of Saindhava Jala Seka
Saindhava Jala Seka is a therapeutic procedure designed to cleanse and nourish the eyes. In the context of this case study, the treatment involved applying a solution of Saindhava (salt) dissolved in warm water over the closed eyelids for several minutes per day. This practice aligns with Ayurvedic principles that emphasize the importance of maintaining the health of the eyes and addressing imbalances in bodily doshas. The local application of Saindhava Jala Seka is believed to alleviate dryness, reduce eye strain, and enhance the overall physiology of the eyes. The treatment was administered for seven consecutive days, with the expectation that it would provide immediate symptomatic relief from the discomfort associated with CVS.
The Benefits of Triphala Ghritapana
Triphala Ghritapana, on the other hand, involves the internal administration of a specially formulated ghee containing three key herbal ingredients known for their eye-specific benefits: Aamalaki, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki. This combination is renowned for its Chakshushya properties, meaning it supports and enhances vision health. In the study, the ghee was consumed at night, mixed with cow’s milk, for a duration of seven days. The internal use of Triphala Ghritapana not only aims to address eye dryness and irritation associated with CVS but also seeks to restore balance among the doshas and improve overall ocular health. This method complements the external treatment of Saindhava Jala Seka by providing a holistic approach to managing the symptoms of CVS.
Conclusion
The management of Computer Vision Syndrome through Ayurvedic practices like Saindhava Jala Seka and Triphala Ghritapana presents a promising approach to alleviating eye-related symptoms. By addressing both local and systemic aspects of eye health, the combined treatments provide comprehensive relief from dryness, irritation, and associated discomfort. Given the increasing screen time experienced by a large segment of the population, these Ayurvedic modalities offer a safe, effective alternative to conventional treatments. Future research and standardization of these practices could enhance their application and effectiveness for those grappling with the challenges of computerized work environments.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Computer Vision Syndrome and its symptoms?
Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) is a condition caused by prolonged screen time. Symptoms include dry and irritated eyes, blurred vision, eye strain, headaches, and neck or shoulder pain.
How does Ayurveda relate to managing Computer Vision Syndrome?
Ayurveda correlates CVS with Shushkakshipaka, emphasizing imbalances in Vata and Pitta Dosha. Treatments like Saindhava Jala Seka and Triphala Ghritapana aim to restore balance and alleviate symptoms.
What treatments were used in the case study for CVS?
The case study used Saindhava Jala Seka and Triphala Ghritapana. These treatments were aimed at reducing eye dryness and improving overall eye health, with positive results observed over seven days.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Case Study: Saindhava Jala Seka and Triphala in Managing CV Syndrome”. 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) Seka (Sheka):
Seka, also known as Parisheka, is a procedure in Ayurveda's Shalakyatantra where medicated liquid is poured over the closed eyes from a height of approximately 4 Anguli (4 inches). It helps to reduce eye strain, intraocular pressure, and maintain normal physiology of the eyeball.
2) Vata:
Vata is one of the three biological energies or Doshas in Ayurveda, representing air and space. In the context of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) and Shushkakshipaka, vitiated Vata Dosha contributes to symptoms like dryness and foreign body sensation in the eyes.
3) Saindhava (Saimdhava):
Saindhava, commonly known as rock salt, is recognized in Ayurvedic texts for its Chakshushya (eye-beneficial) properties. It is used in preparations like Saindhava Jala Seka to balance Tridosha (three vital energies) and treat symptoms like dryness and eye strain in CVS.
4) Triphala (Tri-phala):
Triphala is an Ayurvedic formulation comprising three fruits: Aamalaki, Haritaki, and Bibhitaki. It is noted for its Chakshushya (beneficial for eyes) properties and is used in treatments like Triphala Ghritapana to reduce symptoms of dryness, eye strain, and maintain eye health in CVS.
5) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha refers to the three fundamental bodily bio-elements in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. An imbalance in these Doshas is believed to cause diseases like Shushkakshipaka and CVS. The treatment aims to restore balance, particularly focusing on Vata and Pitta Dosha in this study.
6) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, representing fire and water. An imbalance of Pitta in the eyes is associated with symptoms like redness, burning sensation, and blurred vision as seen in CVS and Shushkakshipaka. The treatment aims to pacify Pitta.
7) Jala:
Jala, meaning water, is used in various Ayurvedic treatments. In the context of CVS, Saindhava Jala (salt water) is used in Seka to soothe the eyes and manage symptoms like dryness and irritation by balancing the Tridosha, especially Vata and Pitta Dosha.
8) Nighantu (Nighamtu):
Nighantu refers to traditional Ayurvedic lexicons or dictionaries, such as Dhanwantari Nighantu and Bhavaprakash Nighantu. These texts list the properties and uses of various Ayurvedic substances including Triphala, Saindhava, and others noted for their Chakshushya (eye-beneficial) properties.
9) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita, meaning clarified butter or ghee, is used in Ayurveda for its pharmacological properties. In the case study, Triphala Ghritapana involves consuming ghee infused with Triphala to treat ocular conditions like CVS by reducing dryness and balancing Vata and Pitta Doshas.
10) Burning sensation:
A burning sensation in the eyes is a common symptom of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) and is associated with Pitta Dosha vitiation. The described Ayurvedic treatments aim to pacify Pitta to relieve this symptom, alongside other discomforts like redness and eye strain.
11) Shalakyatantra (Salakyatantra, Shalakya-tantra, Shalakyatamtra):
Shalakyatantra is one of the eight branches of Ayurveda, dealing with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting those parts of the body located above the clavicle, including the eyes. This discipline is crucial in managing conditions like Shushkakshipaka and CVS with treatments like Seka.
12) Abhyantara (Abhyamtara):
Abhyantara refers to internal or systemic administration of Ayurvedic treatments. In this context, Abhyantara Triphala Ghritapana involves consuming ghee infused with Triphala to internally treat symptoms of CVS like ocular dryness and eye fatigue, balancing Vata and Pitta Doshas.
13) Vatapitta (Vata-pitta):
Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) is associated with Vata-Pitta Dosha imbalance, characterized by symptoms such as dryness, eye strain, and burning sensation. Ayurvedic treatments like Saindhava Jala Seka and Triphala Ghritapana aim to pacify these Doshas to alleviate symptoms.
14) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is the ancient Indian system of medicine that focuses on balancing the body's three Doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The case study utilizes Ayurvedic principles and treatments, such as Seka and Ghritapana, to manage Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) effectively.
15) Haritaki:
Haritaki is one of the primary fruits in the Triphala formulation, renowned in Ayurveda for its Tridoshahara (balancing all three Doshas) and eye-beneficial (Chakshushya) properties. It is used in Triphala Ghritapana to manage symptoms of CVS by improving ocular health.
16) Sushruta-samhita (Susruta-samhita):
Sushruta Samhita is one of the foundational texts of Ayurveda written by sage Sushruta. It details various medical and surgical treatments, including those for eye disorders such as Shushkakshipaka. Treatments like Saindhava Jala Seka are derived from this text to manage CVS.
17) Pittadosha (Pittadosa, Pitta-dosha):
Pitta Dosha represents fire and water in the Ayurvedic system. Imbalance of Pitta Dosha is linked to symptoms like burning sensation and redness in the eyes, commonly seen in CVS, which are managed through dosha-specific Ayurvedic treatments.
18) Netraroga (Netra-roga):
Netra-roga refers to eye diseases in Ayurvedic terminology. Shushkakshipaka is one such Netra-roga described in classical texts like Sushruta Samhita. It encompasses symptoms similar to those of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), which are treated through Ayurvedic remedies.
19) Perception:
In the context of CVS, changes in color perception may occur due to improper use of electronic screens. This is associated with Vata and Pitta Dosha imbalances, and Ayurvedic treatments endeavor to restore normal visual perception by addressing these imbalances.
20) Ashtanga (Astanga, Ashtan-anga):
Ashtanga refers to the eight branches of Ayurveda, one of which is Shalakyatantra that deals with diseases above the clavicle, including eye disorders. Treatments from this branch, like Saindhava Jala Seka and Triphala Ghritapana, are employed to manage CVS.
21) Madhura:
In Ayurveda, 'Madhura' means sweet. It describes the taste and properties of substances like Saindhava, which are used in treatments for their soothing and balancing effects, particularly in managing conditions like CVS and reducing eye strain and dryness.
22) Samhita:
Samhita refers to classical Ayurvedic texts, such as Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita, that detail medical knowledge and treatments. For instance, these texts provide guidance on therapies like Seka and Triphala Ghritapana used in managing CVS and Shushkakshipaka.
23) Snigdha:
Snigdha, meaning unctuous or oily, is a quality described in Ayurveda. Substances with Snigdha Guna, like ghee used in Triphala Ghritapana, help to balance Vata and Pitta Doshas, thus alleviating dryness and irritation in conditions like Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS).
24) Anguli (Amguli):
Anguli is a unit of measurement in Ayurveda, representing the width of a finger. It is used to describe distances for procedures, such as pouring medicated liquids 4 Anguli (4 inches) above closed eyes in the Seka treatment for managing CVS symptoms.
25) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three fundamental Doshas in Ayurveda, embodying earth and water elements. While CVS primarily involves Vata and Pitta Dosha imbalances, treatments also ensure that Kapha is not excessively increased, maintaining overall dosha equilibrium.
26) Karma (Karman):
Karma in the context of Ayurveda refers to the action or effect of a substance. For instance, Saindhava's 'Karma' includes its Kapha-vilayan (Kapha destroying) properties, making it suitable for balanced Tridosha treatment in conditions like CVS.
27) Netra:
Netra means eye in Sanskrit. Ayurvedic treatments for Netra rogas (eye diseases) like Shushkakshipaka involve approaches such as Saindhava Jala Seka and Triphala Ghritapana to alleviate discomfort and restore eye health, as explained in the case study.
28) India:
India is the country where Ayurveda originated and continues to be widely practiced. The case study on managing CVS using Ayurvedic treatments was conducted at Sumatibhai Shah Ayurved Mahavidyalaya in Pune, India, reflecting the tradition's ongoing relevance.
29) Shiras (Siras, Siro, Shirash):
Siras are channels or veins through which Doshas travel in the body. In the context of eye diseases like Shushkakshipaka, vitiated Doshas are carried by Siras to the eyes, causing symptoms such as dryness and eye strain, which are managed via Ayurvedic treatments.
30) Birth:
Birth is relevant as the development of the eyes begins from intra-uterine life. Issues such as premature birth can affect the structural and functional development of the eyes, contributing to conditions like CVS, which emphasizes the need for proper ocular care.
31) Roga:
Roga means disease in Sanskrit. In Ayurveda, conditions like Shushkakshipaka fall under Netra Roga (eye diseases). Ayurvedic treatments aim to address the imbalance of Doshas responsible for the roga, restoring health and balance.
32) Sira (Shira):
Sira, meaning vein, is where Doshas travel through to reach various parts of the body, including the eyes. In diseases like Shushkakshipaka, vitiated Doshas in the Sira can cause symptoms managed through treatments like Seka and Ghritapana.
33) Pune:
Pune is a city in India where the case study was conducted at Sumatibhai Shah Ayurved Mahavidyalaya, indicating the geographical context and the institution's involvement in Ayurvedic research and treatment applications for conditions like CVS.
34) Sah:
Shah refers to Sumatibhai Shah Ayurved Mahavidyalaya in Pune, India, where the case study on managing Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) using Ayurvedic treatments like Saindhava Jala Seka and Triphala Ghritapana was conducted.
35) Tridoshahara (Tridosahara, Tridosha-hara):
Tridoshahara means balancing all three Doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). Substances like Haritaki in Triphala are known for their Tridoshahara properties, making them effective in treating conditions like Shushkakshipaka and CVS as they address the imbalances causing symptoms.
36) Discussion:
The discussion section in the case study evaluates the effectiveness of Saindhava Jala Seka and Triphala Ghritapana in treating CVS symptoms by restoring the balance of Vata and Pitta Doshas, providing insights into the therapeutic approach and outcomes of these Ayurvedic treatments.
37) Science (Scientific):
In the context of the case study, scientific progress refers to rapid advancements in digital technology that outpace human sensory adaptation, leading to conditions like CVS. The study explores Ayurvedic treatments, integrating traditional knowledge with current scientific needs.
38) Parisheka (Pariseka):
Parisheka is another term for Seka, an Ayurvedic procedure where a medicated liquid is poured over the closed eyelids to alleviate symptoms like dryness and eye strain in conditions like Shushkakshipaka and Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS).
39) Doshaghna (Dosaghna, Dosha-ghna):
Doshaghna means destroying or balancing the Doshas. Substances like Saindhava are labeled as Doshaghna in Ayurveda for their ability to balance Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, aiding in the treatment of conditions like CVS by restoring dosha harmony.
40) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiation refers to the imbalance or disturbance of the Doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) in Ayurveda. Vitiated Doshas cause diseases like Shushkakshipaka. Treatments aim to correct this vitiation, alleviating symptoms such as dryness and burning sensation in the eyes.
41) Tridosha (Tridosa, Tri-dosha):
Tridosha encompasses the three fundamental energies in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Effective management of conditions like CVS involves restoring the balance of these Tridosha through specific treatments such as Saindhava Jala Seka and Triphala Ghritapana.
42) Prabhava:
Prabhava in Ayurveda refers to the specific, often unique effect of a substance that is not solely dependent on its basic properties or taste. For instance, Haritaki’s Prabhava is Tridoshahara, balancing all three Doshas effectively in conditions like CVS.
43) Tejomaya (Tejas-maya):
Tejomaya means composed of light or having light-related qualities. In Ayurveda, the eyes are considered Tejomaya and are vulnerable to damage due to excess Kapha. Treatments for conditions like CVS aim to balance Doshas while ensuring no excessive Kapha accumulation.
44) Anupana:
Anupana refers to the vehicle or medium through which an Ayurvedic medicine is administered. For example, Godughdha (cow’s milk) is an Anupana for Triphala Ghritapana, chosen for its Vata-Pitta Shamak (balancing) properties, enhancing the effectiveness of the treatment for CVS.
45) Dravya:
Dravya, meaning substance or material in Ayurveda, is fundamental in formulations. For instance, Triphala is a Dravya composed of Haritaki, Bibhitaki, and Aamalaki, known for its eye-beneficial properties in treatments like Triphala Ghritapana for CVS management.
46) Uttama:
Uttama, meaning superior or excellent, refers to the high efficacy of certain Ayurvedic treatments and substances. For instance, Saindhava is considered Uttama Doshaghna (excellent at balancing Doshas), making it an effective component in managing conditions like CVS.
47) Vyadhin (Vyadhi):
Vyadhi is a term for disease or ailment in Ayurveda. Conditions like Shushkakshipaka, correlated with CVS, are considered Vyadhi caused by the imbalance of Doshas, and are treated using Ayurvedic methods to restore balance and alleviate symptoms.
48) Sneha:
Sneha refers to oiliness or unctuousness in Ayurvedic treatments. Sneha-based treatments, like ghee in Triphala Ghritapana, are used to manage dry eye symptoms and reduce Vata and Pitta Dosha, providing relief from CVS symptoms.
49) Ayus (Ayush):
Ayush, an acronym for Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy, represents the spectrum of traditional Indian systems of medicine. The case study on CVS management is rooted in Ayurvedic principles, part of the broader Ayush methodologies.
50) Guna:
Guna refers to the inherent qualities or properties of a substance in Ayurveda. Substances like Saindhava and Triphala have specific Guna that make them effective in balancing Doshas and treating eye conditions like CVS by reducing dryness and eye strain.
51) Pain:
Pain in the context of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) relates to ocular discomfort, such as pricking sensation and eye strain, associated with Vata-Pitta Dosha vitiation. Ayurvedic treatments aim to alleviate this pain by rebalancing the Doshas.
52) Milk:
Milk, specifically Godughdha (cow’s milk), is used as an Anupana (vehicle) in Ayurvedic treatments. In Triphala Ghritapana, milk helps to enhance the therapeutic effects, balancing Vata and Pitta Doshas to manage CVS symptoms like dryness and fatigue.
53) Drug:
In the context of the study, 'drug' refers to Ayurvedic substances like Triphala, Saindhava, and Ghrita, used in various formulations for treating conditions like CVS by balancing Doshas without causing untoward effects compared to conventional drugs.