Patalagata Timira and Majjakshaya: Ayurvedic Approach to ARMD

Patalagata Timira and Majjakshaya: Ayurvedic Approach to ARMD

(Age-Related Macular Degeneration – ARMD)


1. Modern Explanation:

Macular Degeneration is a progressive eye condition affecting the macula — the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. It is common in the elderly.

There are two types:

  • Dry ARMD (atrophic – slow degeneration)

  • Wet ARMD (neovascular – rapid loss due to abnormal blood vessels)


2. Signs and Symptoms:

  • Blurred or distorted central vision

  • Difficulty reading or recognizing faces

  • Dark or empty areas in the center of vision

  • Straight lines appearing wavy (metamorphopsia)


3. Ayurvedic Correlation:

🟢 Closely correlates with Patalagata Timira (3rd & 4th patala) progressing to Linganāśa

  • Also associated with Vātaja Drishtigata Roga and Majjā-Kṣaya Janya Vyadhi

Retina & optic degeneration in Ayurveda is represented by Vāta aggravation affecting the Majjā Dhātu and Alochaka Pitta.


4. Doṣa–Duṣya–Samprāpti:

  • Doṣa: Predominantly Vāta with involvement of Pitta

  • Duṣya: Majjā Dhātu, Rakta, Rasa

  • Samprāpti: Degeneration of macular tissue due to dhātu kṣaya → Timira/Linganāśa


5. Śloka Reference:

Suśruta Uttara Tantra 7/22:
"तत्र चतुर्थपटलगते दोषे तु लिङ्गनाशनं॥"

🔹 When doshas reach the 4th patala (optic/retinal level), complete blindness (linganāśa) is inevitable.

Ashtanga Hridaya Uttara 13/20:
"वातेन दृष्टेरबलत्वमन्धता..."
🔹 Vāta aggravation leads to weakening of vision and eventual blindness.


6. Ayurvedic Management:

🔹 Local Therapies:

  • Tarpana: Jeevantyadi Ghrita / Triphaladi Ghrita

  • Putapāka: To nourish inner eye tissues

  • Anjana: Rasāyanīya like Chandrodaya Varti

🔹 Internal Medicines:

  • Saptamrita Lauha – with Madhu and Ghrita

  • Vasantakusumākara Rasa (if elderly/diabetic)

  • Brahmi Vati or Yogendra Rasa – for Majjā support

  • Triphala Ghrita – Rasayana for vision

🔹 Panchakarma:

  • Nasya: Jeevantyadi Taila / Anu Taila

  • Basti: Tikta-Ksheera Basti or Majjabasti (best for nerve/macula)

  • Virechana: Gentle cleansing with Triphala or Drākshādi Lehyam

🔹 Rasayana Therapy:

  • Ashwagandha, Shatavari, Guduchi, Amla

  • Triphala Rasayana in ghee or decoction form

🔹 Pathya-Apathya:

  • Include: Cow ghee, amla, green leafy vegetables, Triphala

  • Avoid: Dry food, fasting, emotional stress, screen exposure, night awakening


🧠 Note: Ayurvedic treatment in early & dry ARMD slows degeneration. In wet ARMD, modern care like injections or laser may be needed, but Ayurveda supports recovery and slows progression.


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