Rasayana Pills in Cataract- An Integration of Ancient Knowledge and Scientific Evidences

Abstract

Introduction: Cataract is a principal cause of blindness in the world. Surgery, the major prevailing therapeutic approach for cataract is laced with various complications that include iris prolapse, raised intraocular pressure, infection, cystoid macular oedema and posterior capsular opacification. So world is looking towards more robust and natural ways to prevent cataract. Aim: Rasayana therapy (specially Caksusya Rasayana) have been known to play an important role in prevention and cure of eye disorders. This manuscript intends to highlight hypothesis along with the scientific evidences in favour of role of Rasayanas in prevention and cure of cataract Methodology: Extensive internet search and literature search related to Ayurvedic texts on Rasayana was conducted. Local Ayurveda experts were contacted to know about commonly used Rasayana preparations in cataract. Based on that, Rasayana components of these single preparations/polyherbal preparations were searched for their antioxidant, aldose reductase inhibitor and antiglycating activity. Results: Metadata analysis and perusal of ancient texts on Ayurveda and scientific studies on the evidences in favour of some Rasayanas and some specific Caksusya Rasayana show ability of Rasayana to act as anticataract agents by acting through one or the other molecular mechanism. It is also important to note that some of these Rasayanas like Yashthimadhu, Shunthi, Haridra, Amalaki, Tulsi, Pippali and Triphala Rasayana are very common component of daily kitchen use and can be a better therapy for patient compliance. Conclusion: From the metadata analysis it may be concluded that most of the Rasayanas possess antioxidant, antiglycating and aldose reductase inhibitory activity, either singly or simultaneously and thus they can prevent or revert changes responsible for cataract pathogenesis. So it is pertinent to mention here that use of Rasayana therapy have the potentials to work against the development of cataract and should be explored for scientific evidences for mechanism of action.