Oral Sub mucous fibrosis (OSMF): A Review from Ayurveda Perspective.

Abstract

Background: Oral sub mucous fibrosis (OSMF) a chronic progressive  disorder of oral cavity characterized by inflammation and progressive fibrosis  of the sub mucosal tissues. Reported data published revealed an estimate of 5  million OSMF patients in India and increased over past four decades from  0.03% to 6.42%, seen commonly in younger 20-40 years age group. In  Ayurvedic classical texts, no any direct references about the disease quoted,  can be considered as Anukta Vyadhi (Unexplained disease) and on  understanding the disease condition OSMF can be considered as Vata  Pradhana Tridoshaja Mukharoga Vyadhi which needs management locally  and systemically.  Material and Methods: Ayurvedic literature, modern texts as well as the data  web-based search engines, journal, were used to search for relevant literature  and information.  Result: Habit of areca nut or betel quid and tobacco chewing, excessive  consumption of chilies, autoimmunity, genetic, environmental factor and  dietary deficiencies are the main etiological factors. Excessive and constant  use Kashaya, Katu Rasa, Ruksha, Tikshna and Ushna Dravyas, lead to Dosha  Prakopa and Vikruta Dhatu formation corresponding to biochemical  abnormalities/functional abnormalities and structural defects. So Vata-Pitta  Pradhana Tridosha alleviating local as well as systemic treatment should be  done.  Conclusion: The fundamental principles of Ayurveda should be applied for  achieving regain of the normalcy of oral mucosaand restoring the normal  function by its preventive and curative approach.