A review of Kesha as diagnostic and prognostic tool in Ayurveda

Abstract

Hair is one of the essential characteristic features which not only adds beauty to the person but also helps maintain normal physiological functions, especially by excreting sweat through the  Lomakupa, which is considered one of the roots of  Swedavaha Strotas. It also helps in thermoregulation, protection etc. It is  Pitruja Bhava  and is the  Mala  of  Asthidhatu. Depending upon the Hair conditions, one can assess some of the underlying pathological status of the body. Aims & Objectives: Review the literature concerned with  Prakruta  and  Vikruta Lakshnas  of hairs in Ayurvedic classical texts for diagnosis and prognosis of the disease. Material and Methods: Material related to Hair has been collected from Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Astanga Samgraha, and Ashtanga Hridaya  along with respective commentaries available and data associated with a topic general at different journals and books. Observations: As  Kesha  is one of the factors which build up a person's personality, Ayurvedic classics state the advantages of hair maintenance. In the present era, changes in lifestyle, food habits, excess use of shampoos, and hair dyes, lack of oil massage to Hair, pollution, stress and strain etc., may be the cause of different types of hair problems like  Khalitya  (Alopecia totalis),  Palitya  (premature greying of Hair) etc. Therefore a proper understanding of  Prakruta Lakshanas  of  Kesha  will help in understanding the  Vaikrutha Avastha  which will thus ease the line of treatment.  Results: Thus,  Kesha  and  Loma  play an essential role in diagnosing the   Prakruta   and   Vaikrutha   Lakshana  and help in the prognosis of the disease.