A clinical study of kalaf(melasma) with therapeutic evaluation of tila tukhm-e-jarjir (Eruca sativa linn.)and tukhm-e-turb(Raphanus sativus var.longipinnatus) in its management ; A block randomised single blind standard controlled study

Kalaf (Chloasma or Melasma ), is a sharply, irregular, bordered, hyperpigmented area most

often on the forehead and cheeks, and rarely on the upper chest and extremities, the pattern

almost forming a mask. The color is usually light brown but darkens with sun exposure. The

disorder is slowly progressive and chronic and the disease mainly occurs in summer.

The main etiology is not known but some cases are seen in during pregnancy (“mask of

pregnancy”) or with longtime illness. Women on contraceptive pills also develop chloasma or

Melasma. Incidence of this disorder in pregnant lady is almost 60 percent and women on

contraceptive pills is almost 30 percent.Mostly occurs in age group between 30 to 55 years

and rarely in case of minor and after menopause.

Melasma word is derived from Greek word “Melas” meaning black. Its prevalence is high

in individuals of Asia, Latin America and people of Hispanic origin and in Fitzpatrick skin

type 3-5 .Its prevalence in india is almost 0.25% to 4% and skin disorders are very well recognised

since Greek Arabic Period.

According to Classical Unani Books, the main cause of Kalaf is accumulation of

Sauda(Black Bile) under the layer of skin.9 Kalaf Or Jhhaien Or Melasma is almost

described in all Classical Books of Unani and Council‟s authenticated Books like Al-

Moalajat-al-Buqratiya, Al-Havi etc.

In modern system of medicine, Melasma is treated by various ways like topicals creams e.g

Kojic Acid, Hydroquinone, Azelaic Acid or by oral drugs like Glutathione, Tanexamic Acid

etc or with combination of oral and topical drugs.11 Some therapies are also available for

Melasma like micro needle insertion with some chemicals or chemical peelings or some

Lasers etc. These treatments have some adverse effects like itching, redness, irritation,

allergy from topical creams.The effect of this disease on general health is nil. But it creates

problems in social life. This disease has negative impact on life. Melasma is very frustrating

disorder to treat and one with significant psychosocial implications. Keeping in view of the

above facts, the present study entitled

“A Clinical Study Of Kalaf (Melasma) With Therapeutic Evaluation Of Tila Tukhm-e -

Jarjir(Eruca Sativa linn.) And Tukhm-e-Turb(Raphanus sativus var.Longipinnatus) in its

Management ; A Block Randomised, single blind, Standard Control Study”.