ROLE OF ATRILAL (AMMI MAJUS LINN.) IN THE MANAGEMENT OF SHVITRA: A REVIEW

Abstract

Shvitra is an important disorder of skin pigmentation described in Ayurvedic literature and is commonly correlated with vitiligo based on its clinical presentation. Although the condition does not usually produce significant systemic morbidity, the appearance of depigmented patches can have a considerable psychological and social impact on affected individuals. The management of vitiligo remains challenging, and the search for effective and safe therapeutic options continues. Among medicinal plants traditionally used for disorders of pigmentation, Ammi majus L. has attracted considerable interest because of its rich content of furanocoumarins, particularly xanthotoxin (8-methoxypsoralen) and bergapten (5-methoxypsoralen). Historically, preparations derived from A. majus were used along with sunlight exposure for the treatment of leucoderma and vitiligo, and this traditional approach contributed to the development of modern psoralen-based photochemotherapy. The present review discusses the traditional relevance, phytochemical constituents, possible pharmacological mechanisms, therapeutic evidence, and safety considerations associated with A. majus in the management of Shvitra. The available evidence suggests that its photosensitizing furanocoumarins may promote repigmentation through interaction with ultraviolet radiation; however, the risk of phototoxicity necessitates careful dose standardization and medical supervision. Further well-designed clinical and experimental studies are required to establish the therapeutic role of A. majus specifically within an Ayurvedic framework and to determine its safety, efficacy, and appropriate method of administration.

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