Anjana/Collyrium/Kajal (अँजन-काजल)

A Hypothetical Evolution of Anjana/Collyrium from Forest to Formula

In the earliest days of human civilization, survival depended on observation. Living deep within forests, early humans recognized that vision was central to life — for hunting, protection, and discovering food. Eyes, constantly exposed to smoke, dust, sun, and dryness, required protection long before the concept of medicine emerged.

Humans noticed that certain tree resins, plant juices, and soot from burning herbs soothed inflamed eyes or improved clarity. Ash from medicinal woods mixed with ghee or plant extracts created the earliest form of primitive collyrium, applied using fingertips or small twigs.

Gradually, forest dwellers observed which substances provided cooling, which enhanced sharpness (Teekshna), and which soothed redness or discharge. Plants like: Daruharidra, Saindhav Lavana, Tulsi ashes, Ghee and Cooled herbal decoctions, proved especially beneficial. These became the raw foundations of Anjana Dravya.

As Ayurveda evolved, ancient scholars like Charaka, Sushruta, and Vagbhata classified eye disorders and refined formulations. They developed three major categories:

• Lekhana Anjana — scraping, for Kapha disorders
• Ropana Anjana — healing, for Pitta/trauma-related issues
• Prasadana Anjana — soothing, for daily use and clarity

The material preparation improved:

• Soot (Kajal) was collected from specific medicinal ghee or oil lamps.
• Minerals were purified (Shodhana).
• Herbs were ground repeatedly using Bhavana with eye-healing juices.

This marked the transition from crude soot to precise medicated Anjana formulations.

Today Anjana is standardised in: Mesh size, Purity of minerals, Sterile preparation, Shelf life, Therapeutic target (Dosha-specific action) 

Yet, the core philosophy remains rooted in ancient wisdom — the journey from forest instinct to pharmaceutically perfected collyrium.

Qualities of a Good Anjana (Collyrium)

• Herb-based Anjana must use clean, contamination-free raw drugs.
• Smooth, fine, non-gritty paste or powder.
• Should NOT irritate the eye due to coarse particles.
• Must be sterile or microbially safe.
• pH must be eye-compatible to avoid burning.
• Maintains colour, smell, and consistency over time.
• Should not develop fungus, dryness, cracks, or foul odour.

General Mode of Administration of Anjana (Collyrium)

Application Technique (Anjana Vidhi)

• Sit in a calm, stable position.
• Lower eyelid is pulled gently downward.
• Anjana is applied from inner to outer canthus using:
  • Glass rod (Netra Shalaka),
  • Finger,
  • Sterile applicator.

Types of Application

• Post-Application Care
• Mild tearing is normal.
• Avoid washing eyes immediately.
• Protect from sunlight, dust, and wind after use.
• Avoid reading or screen work for 20–30 minutes.

Time of Application

• Best applied during night (Nisha-Kaal).
• Avoid in direct sunlight or windy conditions.

General Guidelines for Ayurvedic Practitioners on the Use of Anjana

• Identify the Dosha involved (Kapha, Pitta, Vata).
• Examine discharge type, color, tearing, pain, photophobia, vision.
• Selecting the correct type of Anjana:

• Choose according to patient strength (Bala): Strong patients; Lekhana allowed, Children & elderly; Prasadana only, Acute inflammation; avoid strong Anjana
• Contraindications: Do NOT apply Anjana in Acute injury, Severe redness, Very high Pitta (burning), After alcohol intake, Immediately after food, While crying, In very bright sunlight, In infants (unless physician-guided)
• Applicator must be clean/sterile.
• Do not double-dip the applicator in the container.
• Guide the patient to avoid rubbing the eyes and follow dietary precautions (avoid excessively spicy foods in Pitta disorders).
• Always start with the mildest form.
• Instruct the patient regarding temporary watering or irritation.
• Document response to initial dose before advising continuation.

Disclaimer:

This guideline is based on Ayurvedic classical principles and intended for educational use. Practitioners should use their clinical judgment, patient assessment, and individualized protocol before prescribing Anjan/kajal in actual clinical settings.