Post-Śodhana Rasāyana and Pratimarśa Nasya for Sustained Management of Akāla Palitya: A Case Report

Background: Akāla Palitya refers to premature greying of hair and is described in Ayurveda with predominant involvement of Pitta associated with Vāta. The condition is also discussed in relation to Rasa Dhātu Duṣṭi and may require a comprehensive approach rather than local management alone. Case Report: A 10-year-old female presented with premature greying of hair, progressing from the center towards the periphery, along with scalp itching for four years. Examination revealed predominantly black, straight hair with approximately 10–15 grey hairs and a dry, flaky scalp. A similar history of premature greying was present in her elder brother. Based on Śukla Keśa, Kandu and Sphuṭana of Śiraḥ Kapāla, the case was diagnosed as Akāla Palitya. Intervention: Treatment was planned sequentially with Pittahara Cikitsā and Rasa-Rakta Dhātu-oriented management, followed by Śodhana and Rasāyana-Keśya therapy. Initial management included Śamanauṣadhi and Pratimarśa Nasya as a dinacaryā was started. Later, Śodhana followed by Rasāyana, Pratimarśa Nasya and Śiroabhyaṅga was administered. Result: Gradual improvement was observed, with reduction in the progression of premature greying and improvement in presenting complaints during follow-up visits. Conclusion: An individualized and sequential therapeutic approach incorporating Śodhana followed by Rasāyana and Nasya showed clinical improvement in this case; however, controlled clinical studies are required to establish therapeutic efficacy. Keywords: Akāla Palitya, Premature Greying, Śodhana, Rasāyana, Pratimarśa Nasya