Conceptual study of Anantavata with special reference to its Trigeminal neuralgia

Abstract

Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensation from face to the brain. If anyone has this condition, even mild stimulation of face such as from brushing teeth or putting on makeup may trigger a jolt of excruciating pain. Trigeminal neuralgia affects women more often than men and it’s more likely to occur in people who are older than 50 years. Trigeminal neuralgia also called as Tic Douloureux, the function of trigeminal nerve is disrupted. This disorder is not fetal but can be debilitating. Due to the intensity of the pain, some individuals may avoid daily activities or social contact because they fear an impending attack. According to Ayurveda trigeminal neuralgia can be understood as Anantavata. It is explained as diseases of head involving simultaneous vitiation of all tridosha producing sever pain at unilateral side of face. The present article deals with the Ayurvedic approach to the trigeminal neuralgia as Anantavata. Ayurvedic management of trigeminal neuralgia is based on pacifying tridosha.