Abstract

A REVIEW ON NETRA TARPANA -AN AYURVEDA METHOD OF EYE CARE

Mahesh Prasad Sah, Sadhana Parajuli, Sunita Acharya and Nirmal Bhusal

Abstract

Introduction: Netra Tarpana is usually practiced Kriya in Netra Chikitsa which is Brimhana (nourishing) in nature. It is also commonly known as Netra Basti or Akshitarpana. Tarpana is useful both in healthy as well as diseased persons. Tarpana is a Snigdha Kriya indicated in Vata Dusta ophthalmic conditions mainly in Dristigata Rogas. It is commonly indicated in macular degeneration, computer eye strain, degenerative conditions, myasthenia gravis, drooping of eyelid. Materials & Methods: References regarding Netra Tarpana were collected from various classical and Ayurveda published works, published research papers from Pub Med, Google Scholar and compilation was done. Concept of Tarpana in Netra roga Chikitsa was studied in detail. Results: Netra Tarpana is most often recommended practice in Ayurveda Netra Roga Chikitsa. Most of the previous studies have emphasized on the importance of Tarpana in Netra roga Chikitsa; however there were limited clinical studies have been carried out on procedural effectiveness of Tarpana only. Conclusion: Netra Tarpana may help to nourish eyes, increase blood circulation to the affected area, gets rid of Dosha imbalances, strengthens the muscles in the area, helps on improving eye sight. Akshi Tarpana/ Netra Tarpana/ Netra Basti is an excellent soothing, relaxing eye treatment to rejuvenate eyes and surrounding tissues. Larger clinical studies with uniformity in the procedure of Netra Tarpana may help to develop scientific evidences to classical indications.

Keywords: Akshi Tarpana/ Netra Tarpana/ Netra Basti, Eye.