A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF USHNA AND SHEETA TRIPHALA PINDI IN THE MANAGEMENT OF EYE STRAIN – A CASE SERIES

Introduction: In Ayurvedic classical texts, various Kriyakalpa treatments are described for managing Netra roga. Pindi is one of the Kriyakalpa, which involves the application of a paste made from medicated churna. This paste will be placed on a cloth and kept over the eyelids for a specified duration. Eye strain, often referred to as Asthenopia, presents as an individual symptom, as well as a collection of symptoms that include difficulty in focusing, transient blurred vision, a dull ache in the eyes and frontal headaches. Additionally, it may manifest with dry eyes, a burning sensation and increased tear production. Methods: The classical textbooks of Ayurveda do not specify the temperature characteristics of Pindi or categorizes it as cold or hot. In this study, 10 patients with severe eye strain and all other parameters within normal limits were recruited and divided into two groups. Group A received Ushna Triphala Pindi, while Group B received Sheeta Triphala Pindi. The duration of the study was five days. Results: Hence, on comparing both procedures, Ushna Triphala Pindi demonstrated better clinical improvement and was statistically significant compared to Sheeta Triphala Pindi in this case series. Discussion: Pindi is an Ayurvedic ocular therapy that promotes eye health through transdermal absorption, improved circulation, detoxification, lubrication and muscle relaxation, helping to relieve various eye conditions. Applying Ushna form of Pindi over the eyelids effectively alleviates eye strain by addressing key physiological factors that contribute to discomfort, including muscle fatigue, poor circulation, tear film instability and ocular tension.