A CRITICAL REVIEW OF MAHALUNG SWARASA (CITRUS MEDICA LINN.) IN KAPHAJA KARNASHOOLA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO OTITIS EXTERNA

Abstract

Karnashoola is one of the common disorders of ear described under Karnaroga in Ayurveda. Depending upon Dosha predominance, Karnashoola is classified into Vataja, Pittaja and Kaphaja types. Kaphaja Karnashoola is characterized by earache associated with heaviness, itching, swelling and ear discharge due to aggravated Kapha Dosha. Acharya Vagbhata has advocated the use of Bijapura (Mahalung) Swarasa in Kaphaja Karnashoola in Uttarasthana. Bijapura possesses Ushna, Tikshna, Kapha-Vatahara and Shoolahara properties which help in reducing Kapha obstruction and relieving pain. Modern pharmacological studies on Citrus medica Linn. have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. These findings provide scientific support for its traditional use. The present review critically evaluates the Ayurvedic rationale and contemporary pharmacological evidence supporting the role of Mahalung Swarasa in Kaphaja Karnashoola with special reference to Otitis Externa.