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Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Seka and its review
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Author:

Abhilasha, Aditi, Anuja and Deepti


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World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Seka and its review

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr202013-18947

Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The eye is a vital sense organ, essential for experiencing the world. Acknowledging its importance, ancient texts like the Sushruta Samhita provide extensive details regarding the anatomy of the eye, various eye diseases, and their treatments. Among these treatments is Kriyakalpa, a series of therapeutic procedures for eye disorders, with specific formulations applied locally. This review particularly emphasizes Seka Kriyakalpa, exploring its methods, types, and indications for acute management of inflammatory conditions.

Seka Kriyakalpa: A Focus on Procedure

Seka Kriyakalpa, also known as closed eye irrigation, is defined as the method of administering a fine stream of medicated fluid over closed eyes from a specified height for a designated period. This technique is applicable during the Aamavastha phase of eye disorders, characterized by pronounced inflammation. The procedure utilizes a precise setup, wherein a Netra seka Yantra, typically a copper vessel with a narrow opening, facilitates a controlled flow of fluid. The application height of four Angulas is crucial for maximizing the therapeutic effects through mechanical stimulation, increased blood circulation, and modulation of the underlying doshas.

Therapeutic Mechanisms of Seka Kriyakalpa

The effectiveness of Seka derives from its three primary properties: height, flow, and temperature. Pouring the medicated decoction from an elevated position stimulates nerve impulses and enhances blood circulation, thereby promoting healing. The continuous flow mechanism aids in cleansing the affected area of vitiated doshas, while the warmth of the fluid can spur metabolic processes at the application site. Collectively, these actions convert the Amaavastha (acute inflammatory phase) into Nirama Avastha (chronic stage), encouraging the regeneration of tissues by eliminating cellular debris.

Common Medicinal Formulations

Different medicated formulations are used in conjunction with Seka depending on the nature of the eye ailment. For instance, Vataj Sotha may utilize ingredients such as ghee, kerosene, and medicinal roots, whereas for Pittaj Sotha, formulations could include milk and honey. Each formulation is tailored to the present dosha imbalances affecting the eyes, allowing for targeted treatment. Monitoring specific signs can help practitioners assess the effectiveness of the treatment, ensuring optimal recovery without exacerbating conditions.

Conclusion

Seka Kriyakalpa is a safe, economical, and effective procedure that demonstrates significant potential in alleviating eye disorders, particularly acute inflammatory conditions. By facilitating new tissue development and preventing progression to chronic issues, Seka serves as an important therapeutic tool in Ayurvedic ophthalmology, underlining the value of traditional practices in modern healthcare. The insights into its mechanisms and applications contribute to both practitioners' knowledge and patients' overall eye health management.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the significance of the eye in human perception?

The eye is a crucial sense organ, as losing vision makes the world appear dark. Its proper functioning is essential for perceiving our surroundings.

What is Kriyakalpa in Ayurvedic medicine?

Kriyakalpa refers to Ayurvedic therapeutic procedures for eye disorders, incorporating various local applications using specific formulations to treat different eye conditions.

How is Seka utilized in treating eye disorders?

Seka, or closed eye irrigation, involves pouring medicated fluid over closed eyes. It's effective for managing acute inflammatory conditions, enhancing circulation, and promoting healing.

What are some common conditions Seka can treat?

Seka is indicated for conditions with burning sensation, pain, itching, and swelling of the eyes, particularly in the acute inflammatory phase.

What instruments are used for the Seka procedure?

The primary instrument for Seka is a Netra Seka Yantra, usually a copper vessel with a narrow opening, designed to deliver a fine stream of medicated solution.

What are the benefits of performing Seka?

Seka enhances blood flow, removes toxins, and promotes tissue regeneration in the eye, helping prevent conditions from progressing to chronic stages.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Seka and its review”. 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 refers to the Ayurvedic practice of closed-eye irrigation using medicated fluids poured in a fine stream over the eyes. It is particularly effective for treating acute inflammatory conditions of the eyes. This method helps stimulate blood circulation, promote healing, and alleviate symptoms such as pain and burning sensation.

2) Matra:
Matra indicates the dosage or quantity of a substance used in treatment. In the context of Seka, the Matra refers to the amount of medicated fluid poured during the procedure, which is essential for ensuring effectiveness without causing discomfort or adverse effects to the patient.

3) Abhilasa (Abhilasha):
Abhilasha is the name of one of the authors of the article who contributed to the research on Seka and Kriyakalpa. Her contributions help compile knowledge on Ayurvedic practices related to eye treatments and increase awareness about traditional methods among practitioners and scholars.

4) Netra:
Netra translates to 'eyes' in Sanskrit. In Ayurvedic texts, it is often the focus of treatment concerning visual disorders and is fundamental to understanding various eye diseases and their management through therapies like Seka, which directly target eye health.

5) Disease:
Diseases encompass a broad range of conditions affecting individuals, extending from mild issues to severe health challenges. In Ayurveda, particularly related to eye health, recognizing specific diseases guiding targeted treatment approaches such as Seka is critical.

6) Samhita:
Samhita refers to classical texts or collections in Ayurveda that compile knowledge, methodologies, and practices. The Sushruta Samhita is particularly significant as it encompasses teachings about various medical procedures, including eye treatments and Kriyakalpa techniques.

7) Anjana (Amjana):
Anjana is an Ayurvedic practice involving the application of medicated substances as eye ointments or collyrium. It is used in various conditions affecting the eyes, complementing therapies like Seka by addressing symptoms or underlying issues such as inflammation or infection.

8) Guna:
Guna refers to the inherent qualities or attributes of substances in Ayurveda. Understanding the Guna of each medicinal ingredient is crucial in devising effective treatments. For example, the Usna (hot) and Sara (fluid) Gunas enhance the therapeutic effects in Seka procedures.

9) Shalakyatantra (Salakyatantra, Shalakya-tantra, Shalakyatamtra):
Shalakya-tantra is a specialized branch of Ayurveda that focuses on the treatment of diseases affecting the head and neck, including the eyes (Netra). It encompasses the knowledge and techniques necessary for dealing with conditions like conjunctivitis, cataracts, and others.

10) Lakshana (Laksana):
Lakshana pertains to the signs or symptoms of a disease. In Ayurveda, identifying Lakshana is crucial for diagnosis and deciding the appropriate treatment strategy. This includes observing physical symptoms and understanding the patient's overall state to guide effective intervention.

11) Tarpana:
Tarpana is a therapeutic procedure in Ayurveda meant to nourish the eyes. It involves placing medicated oils or substances over closed eyes to regenerate tissue and improve vision, particularly beneficial in chronic eye conditions, complementing Seka for comprehensive treatment.

12) Itching:
Itching, referred to as Kandu in Ayurveda, is a common symptom associated with various eye disorders. Addressing this sensation is essential in eye treatments, as it can lead to discomfort and further complications if not managed effectively through therapies like Seka.

13) Tantra (Tantrism, Tamtra):
Tantra in this context refers to the systematic techniques and methodologies outlined in Ayurvedic texts, particularly those pertaining to eye treatments. It emphasizes the structured approach in management, such as Seka, to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

14) Angula (Amgula):
Angulas is a unit of measure traditionally used in Ayurveda, particularly when discussing the height for Seka application. Accurate Angulas ensure effectiveness in the treatment while preventing any form of discomfort to the patient during therapeutic procedures.

15) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha denotes the three biological energies (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) in Ayurveda that govern the physiological and psychological functions of the body. Understanding which dosha is imbalanced is crucial for tailored treatments such as Seka, ensuring the right approach is taken to restore balance.

16) Karma (Karman):
Karma refers to the actions or procedures performed as part of therapeutic practices in Ayurveda. In the context of Kriyakalpa, various Karmas like Seka play a vital role in addressing specific health issues, particularly those related to the eyes.

17) Dhara:
Dhara is the technique of pouring a continuous stream of medicated liquid, often used in conjunction with Seka. It emphasizes the significance of flow and pressure in therapy, enhancing the medicinal egress and promoting quick recovery of the affected area.

18) Kandu (Kamdu):
Kandu symbolizes itching or irritation, a symptom commonly associated with eye disorders. In Ayurvedic diagnosis, recognizing Kandu is important as it guides the formulation of treatment protocols such as Seka to alleviate discomfort and promote healing.

19) Campu:
Campu refers to a style of writing or textual format used in traditional texts, possibly relating to how Ayurvedic information is documented. Understanding this helps scholars navigate Ayurvedic literature effectively.

20) Pindi (Pimdi):
Pindi is another form of application in Ayurvedic treatment methods, typically involving poultice applications. While Seka focuses on liquid irrigation, Pindi emphasizes solid forms to treat specific conditions, showcasing the varied approaches within Ayurveda.

21) Shotha (Sotha):
Shotha indicates swelling often resulting from inflammation. It is critical in the assessment of eye health, guiding the selection of therapies such as Seka to alleviate swelling and promote healing within affected tissues.

22) Yoga:
Yoga refers to the combination or blend of methods and practices aimed at addressing specific health concerns. In the context of Seka, understanding the appropriate Yoga is essential for addressing eye disorders holistically, using multiple modalities to achieve healing.

23) Burning sensation:
Burning sensation, or Daha, is a common complaint in acute eye disorders. Recognizing this symptom is critical for practitioners to offer immediate relief using therapeutic measures like Seka, which can alleviate discomfort effectively.

24) Sushruta-samhita (Susruta-samhita):
Sushruta-samhita is a foundational text in Ayurveda, authored by Acharya Sushruta, focusing on surgical techniques and treatments for various diseases, including those of the eye. It establishes protocols that form the basis for contemporary Ayurvedic practices related to eye health.

25) Netraroga (Netra-roga):
Netraroga relates specifically to diseases of the eye. Understanding its manifestations is vital for practitioners to formulate effective treatment strategies such as Seka, focusing on alleviating symptoms and promoting eye health.

26) Parisheka (Pariseka):
Parisheka is synonymous with Seka, desiring the technique of pouring medicated fluid over closed eyes. As a therapeutic method, it serves to effectively administer holistic eye care, particularly in treating various ocular conditions.

27) Swelling:
Swelling, or Sotha, is a symptom observed in various diseases, indicating inflammation or excess fluid accumulation. Recognizing the presence of swelling assists Ayurvedic practitioners in diagnosing and applying appropriate therapeutic measures like Seka for relief.

28) Avastha:
Avastha indicates the state or condition of a disease or individual. In Ayurded terms, understanding the Avastha of the Netra-roga determines the urgency and type of treatment required, guiding practitioners in selecting optimal practices like Seka or Tarpana.

29) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Burning sensation (Daha) is a crucial symptom indicating discomfort in eye diseases. Its identification is essential for an effective diagnosis and treatment plan, particularly using calming therapies such as Seka to alleviate this distressing symptom.

30) Yantra (Yamtra):
Yantra refers to the instrument or device used in Seka for pouring medicated fluids, ensuring precision and effectiveness. Utilizing a proper Yantra is integral for successful application and the overall therapeutic impact of the procedure.

31) Ghrita (Ghrta):
Ghrita is a form of medicated clarified butter used in Ayurveda, often incorporated into treatments like Seka for its nourishing and soothing properties. It aids in reducing inflammation and promoting healing in various eye conditions.

32) Ruksha (Ruksa):
Ruksha signifies dryness in Ayurveda. Recognizing Ruksha is essential in diagnosing and tailoring treatment, ensuring practices like Seka use appropriate medicated fluids that counteract dryness effectively and restore moisture to the affected area.

33) Nirama:
Nirama denotes a state free from impurities or disease. In the context of eye disorders, transitioning from Aamavastha (contaminated state) to Nirama is essential and targeted through therapeutic measures like Seka that promote healing and rejuvenation.

34) Taila (Thaila):
Taila means oil in Sanskrit and is frequently utilized in Ayurveda for various applications, including nourishing and soothing therapies. In Seka procedures, particular oils are used to alleviate symptoms, enhance comfort, and support healing processes.

35) Ushna (Usna):
Ushna indicates heat or warmth. It is an essential quality in Ayurvedic treatments, especially in procedures like Seka, where controlled heat helps stimulate blood flow, improve healing, and alleviate inflammation effectively.

36) Avila:
Avila refers to cloudiness or a lack of clarity in vision, a symptom often encountered in eye disorders. By identifying Avila, practitioners can select appropriate treatments like Seka to restore clarity and improve overall eye health.

37) Bheda:
Bheda symbolizes incision or cutting, often represented in more severe conditions needing surgical intervention. Recognizing Bheda assists practitioners in determining the severity of an eye disorder and the corresponding treatment approach.

38) Roga:
Roga signifies illness or disease. In Ayurveda, acknowledging specific Rogas, particularly those affecting the Netra, is crucial, guiding practitioners to employ proper treatment methodologies like Seka to achieve effective outcomes and restore health.

39) Sara (Shara):
Sara represents the quality of fluidity or movement; in the context of Seka, it pertains to the continuous flow of the medicated liquid, crucial for the effectiveness of the procedure in treating eye disorders.

40) Daha:
Daha signifies burning sensation, prevalent in various eye diseases and often addresses acute inflammatory conditions. Implementing therapeutic practices like Seka can alleviate this experience, providing significant relief and promoting healing.

41) Pradhana-karma:
Pradhana-karma consists of the primary actions or steps taken in therapeutic procedures. Understanding these actions, such as those involved in Seka, is crucial for executing Ayurvedic treatments effectively, ensuring they address the root of ocular disorders.

42) Paschat-karma:
Paschat-karma refers to the follow-up actions or care conducted after a primary treatment procedure. In the context of Seka, Paschat-karma includes cleaning the eyes and providing post-treatment advice to foster healing and prevent recurrence.

43) Laghubhojana (Laghu-bhojana):
Laghu-bhojana suggests a lighter meal, often prescribed before treatments in Ayurveda. This is significant before Seka, as a Laghu approach prepares the body for treatment, ensuring minimal discomfort and enhancing treatment efficacy through improved digestion.

44) Mamsarasa (Mamsa-rasa):
Mamsarasa harmonizes meat extracts or essences used in ayurvedic therapies, particularly enriching treatments that require nourishing and rejuvenating aspects. Its applications may be beneficial alongside practices like Tarpana to enhance recovery of the eyes.

45) Erandamula (Eranda-mula):
Erandamula (castor root) is commonly used in Ayurveda for its therapeutic properties, both internally and externally. It may be utilized in formulations during treatments like Seka to address specific conditions affecting the eyes, leveraging its healing qualities effectively.

46) Discussion:
Discussion in this context refers to the analysis and synthesis of findings related to the Seka treatment procedures in the context of Ayurvedic medicine. It encompasses the examination of efficacy, methodologies, and potential improvements for eye care practices.

47) Dhatvagni (Dhatu-agni):
Dhatvagni represents the metabolic fire associated with the body's tissues in Ayurveda. Maintaining balanced Dhatvagni is crucial for achieving optimal health, as it plays a role in the efficacy of treatments like Seka, which rely on metabolic processes for healing.

48) Dashamula (Dasha-mula, Dasamula, Dashan-mula):
Dashamula is a classical Ayurvedic formulation comprising ten roots known for their therapeutic properties. It can be used in various treatments, including Seka, to effectively target specific aspects of eye disorders through its nourishing effects.

49) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is the ancient Indian system of medicine emphasizing holistic treatment approaches. It focuses on balancing the body's energies, and its relevance to eye health is seen through methods like Seka and Kriyakalpa, fostering comprehensive healing.

50) Darshana (Darsana):
Darshana translates to vision or seeing, underscoring the importance of clear vision in Ayurveda. It implies that understanding the state of eye health is crucial before determining suitable interventions such as Seka or Tarpana for optimal results.

51) Pradhana:
Pradhana signifies the primary or foremost in a given context. In Ayurvedic practices, determining the Pradhana treatment method for a specific disorder guides practitioners in applying the most effective approaches, such as Seka for acute conditions.

52) Sharkara (Sarkara):
Sharkara refers to sugar or jaggery, which is sometimes employed in Ayurvedic formulations. Its inclusion may complement treatments like Seka to enhance taste and efficacy while pursuing overall balance within the body's systems.

53) Vitiation (Vitiated):
Vitiated describes an imbalanced state of the body's doshas, leading to disease. As eye disorders are often linked to Vitiated doshas, identifying and correcting these conditions is essential for establishing effective treatments like Seka for recovery.

54) Incision:
Incision refers to a cut or surgical intervention, often necessary in more severe cases of eye disorders. While Seka targets milder cases, understanding the need for incision underscores the need for proper treatment planning based on the severity of symptoms.

55) Bhojana:
Bhojana means food or nourishment. In the context of Ayurvedic treatments, dietary regulations such as Laghu-bhojana highlight the significance of proper nourishment before and after procedures like Seka for maximizing therapeutic effects.

56) Lekhana:
Lekhana refers to methods that scrape or remove unwanted substances from the body. In eye treatments, it emphasizes detoxification processes that may complement the healing effects of Seka in ensuring clarity and functionality of the eyes.

57) Snehana:
Snehana indicates the process of oleation, often used in Ayurveda before procedures like Seka. It ensures the application site is well-prepared, enhancing the absorption and effectiveness of the subsequent treatment delivered.

58) Trikatu (Tri-katu):
Trikatu is an Ayurvedic formulation consisting of three spices (black pepper, long pepper, ginger) known for enhancing metabolism and digestion. It may be used in formulations for eye treatments, helping to rejuvenate and clear the vision effectively.

59) Snigdha:
Snigdha means oily or unctuous. In Ayurveda, a Snigdha quality is often sought after in treatments to counteract dry conditions, thus guiding practitioners in selecting suitable applications during procedures like Seka for addressing dryness in the eyes.

60) Atiyoga:
Atiyoga indicates excessive practice or application, often resulting in adverse effects. Awareness of Atiyoga is crucial in Ayurvedic treatments, as practitioners must balance treatment intensity to avoid complications, especially noticeable in treatments like Seka which demand careful administration.

61) Shamyaka (Samyaka):
Samyaka translates to appropriateness or correct application. In Ayurveda, ensuring Samyaka in treatments ensures that the right actions are taken in addressing conditions like eye disorders, with appropriate dosages and methodologies like Seka being fundamental for success.

62) Pouring:
Pouring signifies the action undertaken during the Seka procedure, where medicated liquids are delivered over the closed eyes. Precisely controlled pouring is vital for treatment efficiency, affecting the therapeutic effect on eye conditions.

63) Dravya:
Dravya translates to substance in Ayurveda. It refers to the medicinal elements used in treatments, particularly in formulations applied in practices like Seka, where the choice of Dravya significantly impacts the outcome of eye therapies.

64) Vikara:
Vikara addresses alterations in health manifesting in symptoms or diseases. In the context of ayurvedic eye treatment, recognizing the Vikara allows practitioners to select appropriate methodologies like Seka for effective healing.

65) Ropana:
Ropana describes the healing or reparative processes in Ayurveda. It is used in the context of treatment methods such as Seka aimed at restoring damaged tissues and facilitating recovery in eye disorders through targeted actions.

66) Cotton:
Cotton refers to the material used to clean the eyes post-treatment. In the context of Seka, cotton is essential to ensure proper hygiene and comfort after the irrigation process, avoiding potential irritation or infection following procedures.

67) Madhu:
Madhu signifies honey or sweet substances, often utilized in Ayurveda for their healing properties. In ocular treatments, Madhu may be employed in formulations to soothe inflammation and promote healing, showcasing its broad application in wellness practices.

68) Anuja:
Anuja is another author referenced in the text contributing to Ayurvedic research on Seka and related practices. Her work helps enhance the understanding and effectiveness of traditional treatments tailored to modern contexts.

69) Nasya (Nashya):
Nasya represents the Ayurvedic practice of administering medicines through the nasal route. It can complement treatments like Seka in addressing overall head and neck health, thereby improving systemic responses and providing holistic benefits after Seka procedures.

70) Laghu:
Laghu signifies lightness or simplicity, often referred to when suggesting lighter meals (Laghu-bhojana) before Ayurvedic treatments. The concept of Laghu helps optimize the body’s response to therapies like Seka by promoting effective digestion and absorption of medicinal properties.

71) Mamsa (Mamsha):
Mamsa translates to meat in Ayurveda, which can be a critical part of dietary formulations. Depending on treatment principles, Mamsa may be incorporated into various Ayurvedic preparations to enhance nourishing qualities, further supporting recovery processes in eye health.

72) Mutra:
Mutra signifies urine in Ayurvedic texts, often referenced in diagnostic and treatment contexts. It may highlight conditions related to renal function that indirectly influence overall health, including conditions treated through therapies like Seka.

73) Shopha (Sopha):
Sopha denotes swelling or edema, a common clinical manifestation in various disorders. Identifying Sopha is critical in eye ailments, enabling practitioners to apply appropriate treatments such as Seka for relief and resolution of symptoms.

74) Kanji (Kamji):
Kanji refers to fermented rice water, noted for its therapeutic benefits in Ayurveda. It’s recognized for digestive properties and may be included in dietary recommendations supporting treatment protocols like Seka to enhance overall health and hydration.

75) Water:
Water is the fundamental substance required for life and plays an essential role in Ayurvedic treatments. Its qualities are often utilized in formulations for Seka, ensuring hydration and supporting the efficacy of the procedures aimed at eye health.

[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 84]

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Seka and its review’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Saraguna, Ushna guna, Acharya Vagbhatta, Netra Parisheka, Bahiparimarjana Chikitsa, Aamavastha, Mechanical effect, Kriyakalpa procedure, Nirama avastha, Atiyoga lakshana.

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