“CONCEPT OF NETRA KRIYAKALPA (LOCAL OCULAR THERAPIES) AND THEIR PHARMACOLOGICAL VALIDATION”
Introduction: Ayurveda, the traditional system of Indian medicine, provides unique therapeutic modalities for ocular health under the category of Netra Kriyakalpa (local ocular therapies). These include Tarpana, Putapaka, Seka, Aschyotana, and Anjana, which are primarily used to treat a wide spectrum of eye disorders ranging from simple refractive strain to degenerative and inflammatory diseases. In modern ophthalmology, localized drug delivery to the eye has gained prominence, which parallels the Ayurvedic emphasis on site-specific treatment. Methods: A comprehensive review of Ayurvedic classical texts, commentaries, and Nighantus was conducted, supplemented with a systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, AYUSH Research Portal, and Web of Science for modern experimental and clinical studies. Inclusion criteria involved references to Netra Kriyakalpa in Ayurvedic texts and modern studies exploring pharmacological or clinical validation of these therapies. Exclusion criteria included studies with unclear methodology or insufficient correlation with ocular pharmacology. Results: Classical literature documents detailed indications and procedures of Netra Kriyakalpa. Tarpana is beneficial for conditions of dryness and degeneration, whereas Putapaka and Seka provide nourishment and anti-inflammatory effects. Anjana and Aschyotana serve preventive and therapeutic purposes for infections, allergies, and chronic ocular strain. Modern validation highlights the pharmacological potential of herbal drugs used in these therapies, such as Triphala, Yashtimadhu, and Madhu, with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and neuroprotective activities. Comparative insights suggest significant parallels with ocular pharmacology, including topical administration, sustained release, and targeted action. Discussion: Netra Kriyakalpa therapies provide an evidence-based rationale for localized ocular drug delivery. Modern pharmacological studies corroborate their efficacy, though large-scale clinical trials are limited. Bridging traditional wisdom with modern validation offers promising prospects for integrative ophthalmic care. Conclusion: Netra Kriyakalpa represents a unique Ayurvedic contribution to ophthalmology. Its pharmacological validation underscores its relevance in modern ocular therapeutics and highlights the need for translational research for global acceptance.
KEYWORDS: Anjana, Ayurveda, Netra Kriyakalpa, ocular drug delivery, Tarpana