Efficacy of Ḍimād-i-Safūf-e-Waj in Segmental Vitiligo

Vitiligo ( Baraṣ ) is a pigmentary disorder of the skin marked by circumscribed depigmented patches due to selective melanocyte loss, affecting 0.5%–2% of the population. The condition manifests as asymptomatic milky-white lesions that may be focal, segmental, or generalized. Conventional treatments, including corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, phototherapy, and psoralen (PUVA), are often effective; however, they can induce adverse effects and may be refractory, particularly in cases of childhood or segmental vitiligo (SV). Herein we report a case of vitiligo which was treated with Unani drugs. A 10-year-old female presented with a 4-month history of depigmented patches on the right forehead, right angle of the mouth, jawline, and neck. Previous allopathic treatments provided no relief. She was prescribed topical application of Waj ( Acorus calamus Linn.) mixed with water and applied once daily in the morning to lesions. After 1 month of topical Waj application, approximately 40%–50% repigmentation was achieved. A notable improvement was observed primarily along the peripheral margins of the patches. Previously, depigmented areas had exhibited scattered islands of pigments that were slightly lighter than the surrounding normal skin. Smaller patches on the neck and the angle of the mouth showed near-complete repigmentation, whereas larger facial patches demonstrated partial repigmentation. No adverse events were reported. This case suggests that Unani therapy may serve as a safe, effective, and culturally acceptable alternative for SV. Further controlled studies are warranted to validate the efficacy of this treatment.