AYURVEDIC UNDERSTANDING OF HIRSUTISM (ATILOMATA)

Abstract

In Ayurvedic classics atilomatā has been mentioned under aṣṭa nindita puruṣā. The disease condition can be considered as the hirsutism which is defined as the presence of male pattern coarse hairs in females. Classical references regarding the various pathological conditions exhibiting atilomatā has been detailed. A better understanding of the condition can be applied in clinical practice as hirsutism is having a huge psychological impact in young females. A clear samprāpti as such is not available. Understanding of samprāpti vighaṭana is done on the basis of the normal physiology and pathology related in formation of keśa and loma. Atilomatā is seen as a symptom along with some disorders like naṣṭārtava, prameha, bīja avayava duṣṭi, puṣpagni jātahāriṇi etc. So based on the pathology of disease and involvement of doṣā and duṣya, prognosis and management of the disease can be planned.