DOI: 10.4103/jras.jras_271_25 ISSN: 2456-5601

Exploring the outcome and safety of Ayurvedic treatments for dry eye disease: A protocol for systematic review

Navya Pavithran, P. Sreenadh, Deepak Pawar

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Dry eye disease (DED) is a common ocular disorder characterized by tear film instability, visual disturbances, and surface damage, with a global prevalence ranging from 5% to 50%, particularly affecting females and worsening with age. Conventional treatments, such as artificial tears, offer limited long-term efficacy and may have side effects. Ayurveda describes a similar condition, Shushkakshipaka , which offers various therapeutic interventions. Despite the numerous clinical studies, evidence-based systematic reviews are scarce. This systematic review aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Ayurvedic interventions compared with placebo or other Ayurvedic or non-Ayurvedic treatments in patients with DED or Shushkakshipaka .

DATA SOURCE:

A systematic review protocol registered with International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42025631160) will include electronic searches in PubMed, the Cochrane Library, the AYUSH Research Portal, and other relevant databases using specific search terms related to DED and Ayurvedic treatments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This review will include randomized controlled trials (RCTs), quasi-RCTS, and controlled clinical trials, while excluding observational studies, case reports, and animal studies. Participants diagnosed with Shushkaakshipaka (DED), regardless of age or sex, will be assessed. Ayurvedic interventions, including Nasya (~medication through the nasal route), Seka (~ocular therapy by streaming), Ashchyotana (~eye drops), Anjana (~collyrium), and Tarpana (~therapeutic retention of medicated liquids over the eyes), with or without non-Ayurvedic therapies, will be evaluated. Data extraction and risk-of-bias assessment will follow the Cochrane guidelines. Statistical synthesis will use weighted mean differences and relative risks, with heterogeneity analyzed through forest plots, chi-square tests, and I 2 tests. Sensitivity and publication bias analyses will be conducted.

RESULTS:

The findings will systematically evaluate Ayurvedic therapies for DED and identify effective interventions.

CONCLUSION:

This review aims to integrate Ayurvedic interventions, support evidence-based clinical decisions, and guide policymakers in developing treatment guidelines.

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