Abstract / Summary
Myopia is a major public health problem pertaining to the eye and has substantial personal, educational, social and economic consequences. It is characterized by blurred distance vision because the optical system of the eye focuses parallel rays of light in front of the retina when accommodation is at rest. Progression of myopia, particularly when associated with increasing axial length, may increase the lifetime risk of retinal and other ocular complications. Contemporary management includes spectacles, contact lenses, pharmacological myopia-control approaches, orthokeratology, lifestyle modification and, in selected adults, refractive surgery. In Ayurveda, disorders of vision are discussed under Drishtigata Rogas. Although modern myopia is not described as an identical disease entity in classical Ayurvedic terminology, some of its early functional manifestations, particularly diminution and blurring of distant vision, may be conceptually discussed in relation to Timira. Pratimarsh Nasya is a form of nasal administration traditionally described for maintaining the health of the head and sensory organs. The present conceptual study proposes Triphala Taila Pratimarsh Nasya as an adjunct to standard ophthalmic care in simple myopia.[1] Triphala, comprising Haritaki, Bibhitaki and Amalaki, is traditionally regarded as Rasayana and Chakshushya. Its use in a Taila formulation provides an oleaginous vehicle traditionally associated with nourishment and Vata-shamana. The combined classical properties provide a rationale for exploring possible effects on visual function and ocular tissue support. The formulation should be considered an investigational adjunct rather than a replacement for optical correction or established myopia-control measures. Prospective clinical studies using standardized refraction, visual acuity and axial-length measurements are required to determine its actual efficacy and safety.