Conceptual Review of Bibhitaki Taila Nasya and Shiroabhyanga in the Management of Khalitya

Abstract

Introduction: Ayurveda represents a profound and holistic medical system that elaborately describes both systemic disorders and localized conditions. Hair fall is one such commonly encountered disorder, affecting approximately 1.7% of the global population and posing a considerable therapeutic challenge in clinical practice. In Ayurvedic classics, hair fall is described as Khalitya Roga and is categorized under Kshudra Roga as well as Shiroroga, indicating its localized manifestation in the scalp region. The condition demonstrates a progressive nature, particularly among individuals adopting sedentary lifestyles, experiencing chronic psychological stress and following irregular dietary and daily regimens. Such factors lead to Dosha imbalance—predominantly involving Pitta and Vata—along with impairment of Rakta and Kesha Dhatu, culminating in hair fall. Ayurveda advocates both preventive and therapeutic measures for the management of Khalitya, among which Nasya and Shiroabhyanga hold significant importance. These procedures directly target the Urdhvajatrugata region, facilitating Dosha pacification, nourishment of hair follicles and restoration of scalp health. Medicated oil therapies, particularly Bibhitaki Taila, administered through Nasya and Shiroabhyanga are described to exert Keshya, Raktashodhaka and Kapha-Pittahara effects, thereby offering a rational and localized therapeutic approach in the management of hair fall. Aim and Objective – This study was aimed to review the literature regarding Nasya and Shiroabhyanga in khalitya by means of Ayurveda and Yoga. Materials and Methods – Different classical Ayurvedic literature, modern literature and articles from journals as well as PUBMED, MEDLINE database was reviewed and analyse for the study. Result and Discussion – Bibhitaki Taila Nasya and Shiroabhyanga is useful in Khalitya.