Parisheka Sweda in the Management of Netra Rogas: A Comprehensive Review

Introduction: Urdhwajatrugata Rogas (diseases of the supraclavicular region) pose a significant clinical challenge.Ayurveda employs Parisheka Sweda (closed-eye irrigation), a specialized Kriyakalpa, for the management of those diseases, particularly ocular disorders.Despite its extensive classical use in acute inflammatory and painful conditions, the modern physiological mechanisms underlying its efficacy remain inadequately explored.This review aims to bridge the gap between the classical Ayurvedic understanding and contemporary ophthalmological principles.Materials and methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using classical Ayurvedic texts, including the Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, and Yogaratnakara.Additionally, electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, DOAJ, and Google Scholar were searched for relevant literature on ocular irrigation, hydrotherapy, and the phytopharmacology of herbal drugs used in Seka.Results: Parisheka Sweda demonstrates similarities with modern ocular irrigation and hydrotherapy.Its mechanism of action involves mechanical cleansing of inflammatory debris, thermal modulation of periocular microcirculation, and localized drug delivery.Phytopharmacological analysis of commonly used drugs, such as Triphala, Lodhra, and Yashtimadhu, indicates their potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.These effects provide a scientific rationale for their use in conditions like Abhishyanda and Shushkakshipaka.Conclusion: Parisheka Sweda is a non-invasive therapy conceptually aligned with modern principles of ocular surface management.However, the current evidence base consists of small, largely open-label, non-randomized studies, and firm conclusions about clinical efficacy cannot yet be drawn.Its therapeutic potential remains promising but unproven; well-designed randomized controlled trials and standardized operating procedures are needed before it can be considered for wider integration into ophthalmology.