Management of Indralupta (Alopecia areata) by Jaloukavacharana and Shamana Aushadh: A case report

Abstract

Background: Hair is one of the defining characteristics of mammals. Hair loss may not harm physically that much but it might lead to psychological impact and may cause depression. Alopecia areata (AA) is a condition resulting in localized, nonscarring hair loss. Patches are more common on the scalp without any scaling and inflammation. In Ayurveda texts, a similar condition is mentioned in Kshudrarogas known as Indralupta. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of Jalaukavacharana in Alopecia areata. Materials and Methods: It is a single case study of a 22-year-old female patient with a complaint of asymptomatic loss of hair at a single site over the scalp for 5 months. This case of Alopecia areata (Indralupta) was successfully treated with 12 sittings of Jalaukavacharana (leech therapy) for four and a half months and 3 months Ayurveda medication. Result: The patch was immensely filled with lustrous black hairs at the end of the follow-up period. Conclusion: Hence, it can be concluded that Ayurveda provides a promising result in the patient of Indralupta through Jaloukavacharana and Shamana Aushadh. It can be a choice of treatment, keeping in mind its cost-effectiveness and successful management as compared to conservative treatment.