Abstract

ANJANA AS A BOON FOR AYURVEDIC OPHTHALMOLOGY

*Dr. Pravanjan Acharya, Dr. Deepak Prajapati, Dr. Naini Jain Dr. Shivani Lowanshi

.

Abstract

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, classifies ophthalmology under one of its eight specialized branches, emphasizing ailments above the Jatru Pradesha. Vision is revered in Ayurvedic philosophy due to its irreplaceable role in perception, knowledge acquisition, and interaction. Among the therapeutic procedures described, Anjana stands out as a vital Netra Kriya Kalpa—methods of ocular treatment—that serves both preventive and curative purposes. Acharya Sushruta detailed five types of Netra Kriya Kalpas, with Anjana being notably impactful in maintaining ocular health in both healthy individuals and patients with eye disorders. Anjana is broadly categorized based on its potency into Mradu Anjana (mild) and Tikshna Anjana (intense), offering tailored therapeutic potential depending on the condition and constitution of the patient. Its significance is supported by classical Ayurvedic texts that highlight the primacy of vision and the value of daily eye care regimens to preserve ocular vitality. This ancient formulation of medicated collyrium is traditionally applied to enhance ocular comfort, reduce inflammation, and detoxify the visual apparatus. This article explores the pharmacological depth, modes of application, and clinical utility of Anjana in Ayurvedic ophthalmology, proposing it as an effective and sustainable ocular therapeutic in integrative eye care. Reviving such traditional methodologies could pave the way for innovative practices in modern vision science.

Keywords: .