EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF TARPANA KARMA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF SUSHKAKSHIPAKA (DRY EYE SYNDROME): A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Sushkakshipaka is described in Ayurveda closely resembles Dry Eye Syndrome (DES), a multifactorial ocular surface disorder characterized by tear film instability, ocular discomfort, and inflammation. Tarpana Karma, a specialized Ayurvedic ocular therapy involving the retention of medicated Ghrita over the eyes, has been traditionally used for the management of ocular diseases. This review summarizes the available Ayurvedic literature and contemporary scientific evidence on the efficacy, safety, and therapeutic mechanisms of Tarpana Karma in Dry Eye Syndrome. The available evidence suggests that Tarpana Karma improves symptoms such as dryness, burning sensation, foreign body sensation, and visual discomfort, while enhancing objective parameters including Schirmer's test and Tear Film Break-Up Time (TBUT). The prolonged contact of medicated Ghrita with the ocular surface promotes lubrication, stabilizes the tear film, reduces evaporation, and facilitates ocular drug delivery. Although current findings support the potential of Tarpana Karma as a safe and effective adjunctive therapy for Dry Eye Syndrome, further well-designed randomized controlled trials are required to establish its long-term efficacy, safety, and mechanisms of action