A CASE STUDY OF KRIYAKALPA BIDALAKA'S EFFICACY IN BLEPHARITIS

Background: Blepharitis is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the eyelid margins characterized by itching, redness, swelling, irritation, and discomfort. Conventional treatment mainly includes eyelid hygiene, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory agents; however, recurrence is common. In Ayurveda, Bidalaka is a well-described Kriyakalpa indicated in the acute stage of ophthalmic disorders and is believed to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of Bidalaka Kriyakalpa in the management of blepharitis. Materials and Methods: A single-case clinical study was conducted in the Department of Shalakyatantra. A 64-year-old male patient presented with itching, swelling of both eyelids, and intermittent redness of both eyes for 15 days. Bidalaka was prepared using Triphala, Yashtimadhu, Haridra, Raktachandana, Spatika, and Sunthi powders mixed with sterile water to form a paste. The formulation was applied over the closed eyelids, excluding the lid margins, once daily for 20 minutes for 14 consecutive days. Clinical assessment was based on changes in itching, swelling, and redness before and after treatment. Results: After treatment, there was a noticeable improvement in clinical outcomes. Redness dramatically decreased from moderate to mild, eyelid swelling decreased, and itching totally disappeared. During the course of the treatment, the patient reported increased eye comfort and no side effects. Conclusion: In this instance of blepharitis, Bidalaka Kriyakalpa showed encouraging therapeutic results by lowering inflammation and easing related symptoms. The process is a useful Ayurvedic treatment option for eyelid diseases because it is easy, safe, economical, and non-invasive. To confirm these results and determine its long-term effectiveness, however, further extensive controlled clinical trials are required.