A Critical Review on the Role of Varnya Ghana in the Management of Vyanga with Special Reference to Melasma

Abstract

Undesirable skin hyper-pigmentation can occur due to various disorders, including melasma, pellagra, Addison's disease, and Cushing's syndrome. Being visibly recognizable, facial hyperpigmentation raises a multitude of concerns. Melasma is characterized by hyperpigmented patches over the light-exposed oral region, forehead, and nasal tip; moreover, melasma dominantly affects females. Excessive melanogenesis is mediated by overactive melanocytes under the influence of melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH), while the tyrosinase enzyme catalyzes the melanin synthesis. On the other hand, Vyanga is distinguished by the discoloration of facial skin in particular and is elaborated under Kshudraroga in Sushruta Samhita. Despite the volume of published studies on Vyanga and Varnya Ghana, scientific studies reviewing the potential of Varnya Ghana in controlling the biosynthesis pathway of melanin and hyperpigmentation are minimal. Hence, this study was emphasis on its inhibitory action on melanogenesis and hyperpigmentation.