Madhu Kumari Lepa in Management of Periorbital Hyperpigmentation - Randomized Controlled Clinical Study

Background & Objectives: Periorbital hyperpigmentation is a common condition occurring in the dermis, epidermis, or both, is a darkening of the skin caused by an increase in production of or distribution of melanin it involves the lower eyelid sometimes extending to the upper eyelid.It is caused by various endogenous, exogenous, and lifestyle factors i. e. sun exposure, advanced age, heredity, thin skin, fatigue, hormonal therapy, lack of sleep, use of cosmetics and spectacles, anemia, overuse of alcohol.It is a cosmetic concern for a large number of individuals who relate it with significant impairment on quality of life.Despite its prevalence, there are not much or very few studies published on Periorbital hyperpigmentation, there are several treatment options available but there is a lack of evidencebased study virtuous description of the condition is unavailable.A variety of products are available commercially which are expensive and may have a side effect, folklore practices are cost -effective and need to be proven clinically.This study was taken up to evaluate the efficacy of Madhu Kumari lepa in the management of Periorbital Hyperpigmentation.Method: Methods: In the present study, 41 samples were screened and out of which 40 were selected and enrolled, randomly assigned into two groups, with 20 subjects in each group.The diagnosis was done based on Lakshana The trial drug Madhu Kumari lepa was administered to the subjects of Group A and the control drug Conventional topical cream was given to Subjects of Group B. Intervention was given for 10 days and the study period was of 30 days.The assessment was done on the 0th day, 10th day, 20th day, and 30th day using the Standard under eye score scale available in the market (fair and lovely fairness scale) The data obtained were statistically analyzed by using Paired and Unpaired t -test and the results were represented in the forms of tables and graphs.Results: Within Group A and B, there was a statistically highly significant difference in Periorbital Hyperpigmentation.Between the Groups statistically both Madhu Kumari lepa and Conventional topical cream had the same effect but clinically Madhu Kumari lepa had a slightly better effect than Conventional topical cream.No adverse drug reactions were observed during the study.Interpretation and conclusion: Madhu Kumari lepa and Conventional topical cream both were effective in reducing Periorbital hyperpigmentation.Madhu Kumari Lepa being both hydrophilic and lipophilic helps in drug penetration through the skin by modifying keratinized protein of stratum corneum and by disturbing hydrogen bond connection of Stratum corneum, it enhances skin tone by lowering eumelanin and reach to cellular level by regulating acid -alkaline ph which can be well correlated to pittahara and varnya karma and brings about the desired action of reducing Periorbital hyperpigmentation.Conventional topical cream acted as an antioxidant and has phytochemicals which had an impact on any stage in process of melanogenesis.Ingredients of Madhu Kumari lepa are easily available and cost -effective.Thus both interventions can be used as a remedy for Periorbital hyperpigmentation