Ayurvedic Management of Autism with ADHD (Unmada)
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Ayurvedic Management of Comorbid State of Autism with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder w.s.r Unmada
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Archana
MD Scholar, P.G. Department of Kaumarbhritya at Rishikul Campus, U.A.U, Haridwar.
Keerti Verma
Professor and HOD., P.G. Department of Kaumarbhritya at Rishikul Campus, U.A.U, Haridwar.
Reena Dixit
Professor, P.G. Department of Kaumarbhritya at Rishikul Campus, U.A.U, Haridwar.
Sujata Sharma
Assistant Professor, P.G. Department of Kaumarbhritya at Rishikul Campus, U.A.U, Haridwar.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Ayurvedic Management of Comorbid State of Autism with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder w.s.r Unmada
Year: 2023 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v10i5.1410
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The Ayurvedic management of conditions like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is explored through the lens of a term known as "Unmada," which represents mental instability and abnormal behaviors. Both ASD and ADHD are neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by difficulties in social functioning and executive functioning. The Ayurvedic approach centers on balancing the Doshas, particularly the aggravated Vata dosha, through dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and therapies including Balpanchkarma and Marma therapy.
Unmada and Its Connection to ASD and ADHD
Unmada, classified as a mental disorder in Ayurveda, resonates closely with the manifestations of ASD and ADHD. This correlation is particularly relevant given that Unmada is indicative of Vata dosha imbalance, which can lead to hyperactivity and cognitive disturbances. The case study of a 5-year-old girl illustrates these concepts where she presented with delayed speech, poor eye contact, hyperactivity, and a lack of awareness of danger, aligning her condition with the characteristics of Unmada. The patient underwent Ayurvedic interventions, including specific formulations aimed at improving mental faculties and behavior.
Ayurvedic Treatment Modalities
The treatment regimen for the patient encompassed a combination of Ayurvedic formulations, dietary recommendations, and Panchakarma therapies. Key herbal ingredients included Yasthimadhu, Giloy satva, Brahmi vati, and Shishu Bharana Rasa, which are known for their cognitive and rejuvenating effects. The treatment plan also integrated Marma therapy, which stimulates specific energy points in the body that may further assist in managing the symptoms associated with Unmada. Over the course of the treatment, significant improvements were observed in the patient's ability to speak, establish eye contact, and reduce hyperactive tendencies.
Conclusion
The findings of this case study underscore the efficacy of Ayurvedic management in treating comorbid states of autism and ADHD categorized as Unmada. By employing a holistic treatment strategy that encompasses physical, psychological, and spiritual dimensions, Ayurveda presents a promising avenue for managing such complex disorders. Recognizing the intertwined challenges of autism and ADHD allows for tailored interventions that can empower affected individuals to achieve their potential. This research paves the way for further investigations into the role of Ayurveda in mental health care, particularly for neurodevelopmental disorders.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Unmada in Ayurveda and how does it relate to autism?
Unmada is an Ayurvedic term for a condition of mental instability and abnormal behaviors, similar to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Both share genetic heritability and impairments in social functioning, resembling symptoms of Unmada.
How is the Ayurvedic treatment for a child with autism prescribed?
The treatment is individualized based on the child's specific symptoms. It typically includes dietary modifications, Ayurvedic formulations, and therapies such as Balpanchkarma and Marma to restore balance in the Vata dosha that governs movement and cognition.
What significant improvements were observed in the patient after treatment?
After following the Ayurvedic treatment protocol for about two to three months, notable improvements in speaking abilities, eye contact, hyperactivity, attention, and mobile addiction were observed, indicating the effectiveness of the Ayurvedic approach in managing these conditions.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ayurvedic Management of Autism with ADHD (Unmada)�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Unmada:
The term 'Unmada' in Ayurveda refers to a condition characterized by mental instability, restlessness, and abnormal behaviors. This condition is similar to the modern-day Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
2) Marma:
'Marma' therapy in Ayurveda involves stimulating specific points on the body (Marma points), such as Kshipra, Kurchkshipra, Talhridya, Urvi, Ani, Indrabasti, and Adhipati, to sustain the flow of energy. It's said to affect organ health, hormone production, and overall body function.
3) Brahmi:
In Ayurveda, 'Brahmi' (Bacopa monnieri) is a herb used for enhancing memory and cognitive function. It is often included in formulations like Shiropichu with Brahmi oil and Saraswatarishtham to help reinforce mental capabilities, including attention, focus, and intellect.
4) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
'Ayurveda' is an ancient system of medicine from India focusing on the balance of bodily doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and maintaining health through personalized treatments. It combines dietary changes, lifestyle interventions, and specific therapies like Panchkarma and Marma therapy.
5) Powder:
In the treatment being discussed, the 'Powder' combination included Yasthimadhu powder, Giloy satva, Brahmi vati, and Shishu bharan rasa, given twice a day with honey to boost mental power and rejuvenation processes in patients with Autism and ADHD.
6) Ghrita (Ghrta):
'Ghrita' is clarified butter used in Ayurveda, often medicated. In the discussed treatment, Kalyank Ghrita was given for its medhya (intellectual) and neuro-protective functions, and Yasthimadhu Ghrita was used for Nasya therapy, where drops are administered into the nostrils.
7) Campu:
[see source text or glossary: Campu]
8) Rasa (Rasha):
'Rasa' refers to taste, essence, or juice in Ayurveda and can also denote specific Ayurvedic formulations. For example, Shishu Bharana Rasa includes ingredients like Kumar Kalyan Ras, promoting the proper physical and mental development of children.
9) Matra-basti:
'Matra-basti' is a mild enema using medicated oils such as Brahmi oil. It helps balance the Vata dosha and is particularly effective in controlling neurological disorders like Autism and ADHD.
10) Nature:
[see source text or glossary: Nature]
11) Shishu (Sisu, Sishu):
The term 'Shishu' refers to a child. In the context of Ayurveda, Shishu Bharana Rasa is a formulation designed to support the physical and mental development of children.
12) Dosha (Dosa):
In Ayurveda, 'Dosha' refers to the three fundamental bodily humors—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The balance of these doshas is essential for maintaining health. Unmada is related primarily to an imbalance in the Vata dosha.
13) Matra:
[see source text or glossary: Matra]
14) Basti:
'Basti' refers to an Ayurvedic enema therapy. Matra Basti, a milder form using Brahmi oil, helps in controlling Vata and is used in the treatment of neurological conditions like Autism and ADHD.
15) India:
The origin country of Ayurveda, 'India', is specifically mentioned as the place where research and treatment for conditions like Unmada (Autism and ADHD) are conducted. Institutions like UAU Rishikul Campus, Haridwar, are significant contributors.
16) Vati:
'Vati' refers to a type of Ayurvedic tablet or pill formulation. Brahmi Vati was part of the Ayurvedic treatment protocol for managing symptoms of Autism and ADHD in the discussed case study.
17) Vata:
'Vata' is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, governing movement, cognition, and the nervous system. Imbalances in Vata are linked to mental and behavior disorders such as Unmada, which corresponds to Autism and ADHD.
18) Vatadosha (Vatadosa, Vata-dosha):
'Vata-dosha' specifically refers to the bodily humor involving air and ether elements in Ayurveda. It regulates movement, including mental activity. Imbalances in Vata-dosha can lead to conditions like Unmada (ASD and ADHD).
19) Language:
'Language' development issues like difficulty in speaking as per developmental age were noted in the patient with comorbid Autism and ADHD, and significant improvement in language skills was observed after Ayurvedic treatment.
20) Bharana:
In Ayurvedic formulations like Shishu Bharana Rasa, 'Bharana' implies nurturing or nourishing, essential for promoting the physical and mental development of children.
21) Disease:
Unmada, correlated with Autism and ADHD in Ayurveda, is considered a 'disease' arising from Vata dosha imbalance, affecting mental and behavioral patterns. Ayurvedic treatment aims to restore dosha balance to manage the disease.
22) Vikara:
'Vikara' means disorder or ailment. In this context, Autism and ADHD are considered Manasika Vikara (mental disorders) arising primarily due to Vata dosha imbalance.
23) Medhya:
'Medhya' refers to intellectual or cognitive enhancement in Ayurveda. Medhya Dravyas like Brahmi, used in the discussed treatments, are known to improve memory, intellect, and overall brain function.
24) Vatika:
'Vatika' pertains to disorders primarily caused by an imbalance in Vata dosha. Unmada, linked with Autism and ADHD, is classified as a Vatika Vikara requiring specific Ayurvedic treatments to balance Vata.
25) Family:
No relevant 'family' history affecting the child's condition was found in this case study. However, family background often plays a vital role in understanding hereditary or environmental factors.
26) Manas (Mano, Manash):
'Manas' means mind in Ayurveda. Mental disorders like Unmada (Autism and ADHD) are categorized under Manasa Roga, with treatment focusing on restoring mental balance.
27) Birth:
The child's condition, noted since shortly after 'birth,' was a full-term cesarean delivery due to obstructed labor. Early developmental milestones were assessed to understand the emergence of Autism and ADHD symptoms.
28) Roga:
'Roga' means disease in Ayurveda. Unmada, seen as a Manasa Roga (mental disorder), is treated with a combination of dietary, lifestyle, and therapeutic interventions to restore mental and physical health.
29) Vayu:
'Vayu' or Vata governs all physical and mental activities in Ayurveda. Imbalances can lead to disorders like Unmada, manifesting as Autism and ADHD. Treatment involves Vata-pacifying therapies and medications.
30) Mana:
'Mana' in Ayurveda refers to the mind. Disorders like Unmada (ASD, ADHD) are associated with mental instability, requiring mental balancing treatments in Ayurveda.
31) Food:
'Food' recommendations included avoiding fast food and packed food for better treatment outcomes. Diet plays a significant role in restoring balance in Ayurvedic treatments for mental disorders like Unmada.
32) Diet:
'Diet' modifications are essential in Ayurveda to balance doshas. For conditions like Unmada (ASD, ADHD), avoiding fast food and packed food helps in achieving therapeutic goals.
33) Gold (Golden):
'Gold,' used in Ayurvedic formulations such as Saraswatarishtham with gold, enhances the therapeutic effects of herbs on the brain, improving mental functions and treating conditions like Unmada (ASD, ADHD).
34) Drug:
'Drug' in Ayurveda includes herbal and mineral formulations like Yasthimadhu powder, Giloy satva, and Brahmi vati, which are used to manage symptoms of Unmada (ASD, ADHD).
35) Mental disorder:
'Mental disorder' like Unmada, which correlates with Autism and ADHD, is linked to Vata dosha imbalance and treated holistically using diet, lifestyle changes, and tailored Ayurvedic therapies.
36) Asparagus racemosus:
'Asparagus racemosus,' also known as Satavari, is an herb used in Ayurvedic treatments for its rejuvenating properties, found in formulations like Saraswatarishtham to support mental health.
37) Daivavyapashraya (Daivavyapasraya):
'Daivavyapasraya' chikitsa in Ayurveda refers to confidence-building and spiritual therapies, which are part of the holistic approach to managing Manasika Vikara (mental disorders) like Unmada (ASD, ADHD).
38) Ashvagandha (Asvagandha, Ashwagandha, Ashvagamdha, Ashva-gandha):
'Ashwagandha,' used in Ayurvedic formulations like Saraswatarishtham, is known for its adaptogenic properties that help manage stress and improve cognitive functions, beneficial in treating conditions like Unmada (ASD, ADHD).
39) Indrabasti:
'Indrabasti Marma' is a specific Marma point used in Marma therapy. Stimulating this point helps balance energy flow, contributing to the treatment of neurological disorders like Unmada (ASD, ADHD).
40) Vibhramsha (Vibhramsa):
'Vibhramsha' means impairment in Sanskrit. In the context of Autism and ADHD, it refers to impairments in cognitive functions, social interactions, and behavior patterns associated with Vata dosha imbalance.
41) Perception:
[see source text or glossary: Perception]
42) Discussion:
'Discussion' in the context of the case study encompasses the Ayurvedic approach to treating Unmada (ASD, ADHD), highlighting the efficacy of personalized treatments, including Panchkarma and Marma therapy.
43) Vitiation (Vitiated):
'Vitiation' refers to the disturbance or imbalance of doshas in Ayurveda. For example, Vitiation of Vata dosha is linked to mental disorders like Unmada (ASD, ADHD).
44) Adhipati:
'Adhipati Marma' is a Marma point on the head, crucial for balancing Vata and treating neurological disorders. Stimulating this Marma point can help manage symptoms of Unmada (ASD, ADHD).
45) Shatavari (Satavari):
'Satavari' (Asparagus racemosus) is an Ayurvedic herb included in formulations like Saraswatarishtham. Known for its rejuvenative properties, it aids in improving cognitive functions and overall mental health.
46) Prakriti (Prakrti):
'Prakriti' refers to an individual's unique constitution in Ayurveda, dictating personalized treatment plans. Understanding a patient's Prakriti helps tailor treatments for conditions like Unmada (ASD, ADHD).
47) Kshipra (Ksipra):
'Kshipra' is a specific Marma point used in Marma therapy. Stimulating this point helps with energy flow and managing neurological disorders like Unmada (ASD, ADHD).
48) Nostril:
'Nostril' administration of medications, such as Nasya therapy with Yasthimadhu Ghrita, plays a crucial role in treating neurological conditions like Unmada (ASD, ADHD) by delivering therapeutic substances directly to the brain.
49) Bhakti:
'Bhakti' means desires or spiritual devotion. In managing mental disorders like Unmada (ASD, ADHD), therapeutic approaches may include elements of spiritual healing and mindfulness.
50) Buddhi:
'Buddhi' means intellect in Ayurveda. Treatments for Unmada (ASD, ADHD) focus on improving Buddhi through Medhya Rasayanas like Brahmi and herbal formulations targeting cognitive functions.
51) Dravya:
'Dravya' in Ayurveda refers to substances or herbs used in treatments. Medhya Dravyas like Brahmi and Ashwagandha are used to enhance cognitive functions in treating Unmada (ASD, ADHD).
52) Smriti (Smrti):
'Smriti' means memory. Ayurvedic treatments for Unmada (ASD, ADHD) often target improving Smriti using Medhya Dravyas like Brahmi, promoting better cognitive function and memory retention.
53) Pushti (Pusti):
'Pushti' means nourishment or growth. Ayurvedic formulations like Shishu Bharana Rasa aim to provide Pushti to children, enhancing both physical and mental development.
54) Balaka (Bala-ka):
'Balaka' means child. Treatments like Shishu Bharana Rasa in Ayurveda focus on the physical and mental development of Balaka, addressing issues like Autism and ADHD.
55) Manasa (Manasha):
'Manasa' refers to the mind. Ayurveda categorizes Unmada (ASD, ADHD) under Manasa Roga (mental disorders), focusing on mind balancing treatments for effective management.
56) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
[see source text or glossary: Sharma]
57) Desire:
'Desire' can be correlated with Bhakti in Ayurveda, which encompasses mental desires and inclinations. Treatments for mental disorders consider the role of desires in overall mental health.
58) Acara:
'Achara' refers to learned skills or behaviors. In Unmada (ASD, ADHD), deficits in Achara are addressed through Ayurvedic treatments focusing on cognitive and behavioral enhancements.
59) Satva (Shatva):
[see source text or glossary: Satva]
60) Nasya (Nashya):
'Nasya' is a nasal administration therapy in Ayurveda. Yasthimadhu Ghrita Nasya, used in treating Unmada (ASD, ADHD), helps deliver the medication directly to the brain for better cognitive function.
61) Taila (Thaila):
'Taila' means oil in Ayurveda. Various medicated oils, like Brahmi oil for Shiropichu and Matra Basti, are used to treat Vata-related disorders like Unmada (ASD, ADHD).
62) Yukti:
'Yukti' refers to the rational or logical approach in Ayurveda. Yukti Vyapasraya Chikitsa uses rational medical management, combining various treatments to address mental disorders like Unmada (ASD, ADHD).
63) Karya:
[see source text or glossary: Karya]
64) Kumar:
'Kumar' pertains to children in Ayurveda. Treatments like Kumar Kalyan Rasa focus on holistic development and managing disorders like Autism and ADHD.
65) Ayus (Ayush):
[see source text or glossary: Ayush]
66) Honey:
'Honey' is used as an anupana (vehicle) for administering Ayurvedic medications, such as the powder combination given to the patient in the discussed case study.
67) Blood:
'Blood' type and other personal health details are considered in Ayurvedic case histories to tailor treatments. In this case, the patient had an O+ blood group.
68) Bala:
'Bala' means strength. Ayurvedic treatments aim to enhance both physical and mental Bala, crucial for managing diseases like Unmada (ASD, ADHD).
69) Urvi:
'Urvi' is a Marma point used in Marma therapy to balance energy flow, aiding in the treatment of mental disorders like Unmada (ASD, ADHD).
70) Fire:
Being unaware of 'fire' dangers is a symptom in the case study for Autism and ADHD. Ayurvedic treatment aimed to improve situational awareness and behavior patterns.
Other Science Concepts:
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Matra-basti, Unmada, Vatadosha, Ayurvedic formulation, Ayurvedic Management, Medhya dravya, Panchkarma therapy, Behavioral pattern, Marma therapy, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Shiropichu.