Management of Indralupta (Alopecia areata) through Ayurveda - A Case Report

Introduction: Alopecia areata (AA), an autoimmune disease characterized by the appearance of non-scarring bald patches affecting the hair bearing areas of the body. Scalp is the most common site of involvement. It can be compared with Indralupta in Ayurveda. The pathophysiology of Indralupta is the vitiated Tridoshas and Rakta, affecting the scalp and also blockage of hair follicles with aggravation of Rakta and Kapha which further prevents regrowth of hairs. It is described as Kapalgata Roga by Acharya Vagbhata and as a Kshudra Roga by Acharya Sushruta and Madhava Nidana. Methods: This is a case study of 11 years male child brought by his parents to Balroga OPD having complaints of bald patches over scalp region for 6 months. Patient was diagnosed with Indralupta and managed by classical treatment of Raktamoskhan by Jalauka along with some internal and external drugs. Treatment for 4 months along with the diet regimen mentioned in Ayurvedic text was followed. Result: The patient got speedy recovery with remarkable regrowth of scalp hair after 4 months of treatment. Discussion: Classical Indralupta Chikitsa mentioned in Ayurvedic classics is effective in the management of Alopecia areata.