Ayurvedic Management of Shlishta Vartma (Allergic Conjunctivitis): A Case Report

Shlishta Vartma, similar to allergic conjunctivitis, was described by Acharya Vagbhata as one of the Vartma Gata Rogas (lid disorders). It is characterised by Shlishta (stickiness of the eyelids), Kandu (itching), Shvayathu (oedema), and Raga (redness), and it mimics allergic conjunctivitis as described in modern medicine. Allergic conjunctivitis is a common condition with a prevalence of about 20%, caused by an inflammatory response to allergens such as pollen, dust, or pet dander, which triggers the release of histamines and other mediators. Modern treatment includes topical antihistamines, mast cell stabilisers, Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) and immunomodulators. Present case is of a 20-year-old male with stickiness of the eyelids, itching, oedema and mild thickening of the lids for the past four months. He was not completely relieved by modern medicines. Therefore, the Ayurvedic protocol of Shlishta Vartma was tried, as the symptoms of both conditions were similar. It includes Lekhana karma (scraping) to purify the Rakta (blood), to supply fresh blood to the lids to enhance the healing process and maintain homeostasis. In a young age group, Jalauka (leech therapy) can be used to purify the blood at the site, along with immunomodulatory drugs such as Rajanyadi Choorna, which enhances Vyadhikshamatva (immunity).