Bridging Modern Diagnosis and Ayurveda: Successful Management of Geographic Tongue w.s.r. to Jihvakantaka

Abstract

The tongue reflects digestive and systemic health, and Geographic Tongue is a benign inflammatory condition of the dorsal tongue, marked by depapillated erythematous patches with serpiginous borders of white, yellow, or gray coloration, sometimes causing burning and sensitivity to spicy foods. In Ayurveda, geographic tongue is not described as a distinct entity; however, its symptoms closely resemble those classified under Jihvakantaka. The objective in presenting the case report is to discuss the clinical presentation, etiological factors, and associated symptoms and management strategies of geographic tongue. Case Presentation: A 50-year-old female patient visited to the Kayachikitsa OPD of Sir Sunder Lal Hospital, IMS BHU Varanasi, with the chief complaint of burning sensation and sensitivity to hot and spicy food. During intraoral examination, she was diagnosed with geographic tongue. Patient was advised a combination of these drugs Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn.) Churna, Sutasekhar rasa, Kamdudha rasa, Amrita Satva, Rasanjana churna with honey twice a day and Arogyavardhani vati 500mg twice a day, and Gandoosha with Baboola and Amrooda patra for 45 days. Clinical progression was evaluated through symptom assessment and comparative photographic analysis. Results: At the end of the treatment, the tongue exhibited a clear surface with a healthy pink hue and prominently elevated red papillae. The color and size of the lesions were assessed through comparative photographic documentation taken before and after the treatment. Conclusion: This case shows that integrated Ayurvedic internal and local therapies effectively improved symptoms and mucosal healing in geographic tongue, demonstrating a safe, beneficial approach.