MUKHA KRIYAKALPA - PROCEDURES FOR PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT OF ORAL CAVITY DISORDERS
Mukha (oral cavity) is considered as a gateway for the alimentary canal, health of the oral cavity reflects the body health as healthy oral cavity aids in proper digestion of the food consumed. The oral cavity also takes part in bodi- ly functions like respiration and speech. It also contributes to the beauty and confidence of an individual. Mukha is comprised of Osta (lips), Dantamula (Gums), Danta (Tooth), Jinhva (Tongue), Taalu (Palate), Gala (Throat). Since the Oral cavity is constantly exposed to the external environment, there are more chances of trauma and infections. Hence to avoid the chances of oral cavity diseases it is very important to maintain good oral hygiene. Kriyakalpa is the therapeutic procedure applied locally and are considered under bahirparimarjana chikitsa. Ka- vala, Gandusha and Pratisarana are kriyakalpas explained for good oral hygiene. These can be used as a daily regimen to maintain good oral hygiene and in mukharoga as therapeutic procedures. These mukha kriyakalpa- due to their cleaning action and by increasing defence mechanism, promotes oral health and prevents many oral disorders. Various formulations for mukha kriyakalpa are available for a healthy person based on prakriti and for treatment based on vitiated dosha avastha. Keywords: Mukha kriyaklpa, Oral hygiene, kavala, Gandusha, Pratisarana.