Efficacy of Romashatana Yoga in Hypertrichosis - A Conceptual Study

Abstract

Smooth and unblemished skin boosts the confidence and self-esteem of an individual. When viewed in terms of Aesthetics unwanted hair present over the body causes cosmetological as well as psychological disturbances. Hair removal is practiced for the reasons like Cultural, sexual, religion and cosmetic purposes. Presently the methods followed include Shaving, Waxing, Electrolysis, Laser therapy, use of depilatory creams. For hair removal two main therapies are in practice 1) Depilation & 2) Epilation. Depilation includes Shaving, use of chemicals for hair removal. Epilation therapy is of two types permanent & temporary, this mainly includes electrolysis, laser hair removal etc. Our Acharyas have advised the timely removal of unwanted body hair. In various Ayurvedic classics many Hair removal formulations have been mentioned. Ex: Romashatana Yoga of Chakradatta, Romashatana Lepa of Sharangadhara Samhita, Loma Shatana Lepa of Bhaishajya Ratnavali etc. Romashatan Lepa is useful for the significance & symptom of hypertrichosis. Study. Drug contains Shudha Hartal (Yellow arsenic), Shudha Manahsheela (Red arsenic), Shankhabhasma (incinerated conch shell) & Sudha (chalk-calcium carbonate) with media of lime juice. When we look into the ingredients of these formulations the drug Haratala (Orpiment) is found to be the common ingredient and in various texts Haratala is called by the term Romapaharaka. This much importance is given to Haratala indicates that there must be some major role of Haratala in the Epilation/ Depilation activity.