A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW ON ARMA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO PTERYGIUM

Arma, described in Ayurveda under Shuklagata Netra Roga, is a fleshy growth originating at the inner (Kaneenika) or outer (Apanga) canthus and progressively invading the cornea (Krishna Mandala). Rather than grouping cases by shape as in modern systems, the Ayurvedic perspective focuses on clinical features, the doshic disturbances involved, and underlying imbalances. Classical sources attribute Arma to derangement of Pitta and Kapha, often promoted by environmental triggers such as prolonged sun, dust, or heat exposure. Treatment in Ayurveda combines conservative and operative methods: non-surgical care uses therapies like Anjana, Tarpana, and Nasya with herbal preparations to pacify the doshas and limit progression, while advanced lesions are managed by surgical excision (Chedana Karma) followed by pacifying (Shamana) and rejuvenative (Rasayana) measures to support healing and reduce recurrence. This review synthesizes teachings from Ayurvedic classics and commentaries alongside contemporary ophthalmology to present a holistic view of Arma, underlining the importance of individualized, dosha-focused management for durable outcomes and prevention of relapse.