Sei sulla pagina 1di 152

Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

AYURVEDIC PSYCHOTHERAPY
(MANAS ROGA CHIKITSA)

By --

Prof. Dr. Ranade Subhash


B.A.M.S, M. A.Sc
Chairman, IAA, Pune, India
(www.ayurved-int.com,
www.ayurvedakarmayoga.com)
Dr. Bhaskar Patil
BAMS, DYA, PGDMLS, MS (P&C)

Published By –Ayurveda For You


[http://ayurveda-foryou.com]

1
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Contents

• REVIEW OF AYURVEDIC PSYCHOLOGY.................................... 3


• STRESS – TAAN............................................................................... 54
• SCHIZOPHRENIA ............................................................................ 60
• ANXIETY DISORDERS ................................................................... 73
• DEPRESSION -VISHADA –DAINYA............................................. 84
• ANOREXIA BULEMIA – ANOREXIA NERVOSA- AROCHAK-
ARUCHI............................................................................................. 94
• ADDICTION - MADA .................................................................... 101
• ATTENTATION DEFICIT / HYPERACTIVE DISORDER- ADHD
.......................................................................................................... 108
• AUTISM........................................................................................... 116
• BIPOLAR DISORDER .................................................................... 121
• ALZHEIMER’S DISORDER – SMRUTI BHRAMSHA ............... 125
• PARKINSON’S DISEASE - KAMPAVATA ................................. 130
• INSOMNIA -ANIDRA .................................................................... 134
• CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME –CFS- MANSAGATA /
MANSAVRUTA VATA.................................................................. 142
• EPILEPSY - APASMARA .............................................................. 146
• BIO DATA OF AUTHORS ............................................................. 149
• OTHER PUBLICATIONS............................................................... 151

2
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Chpater 1

Review of Ayurvedic Psychology

Developed and developing countries are facing many psychological


problems and diseases than physical suffering. Modern medicine has been
relatively effective in alleviating many acute diseases, but emotional
suffering has increased because various factors of our modern life are out of
harmony with nature.

Psychological conditions like depression are almost epidemic today. Even


children are commonly suffering from conditions like Attention deficit
disorder or hyperactivity. The current drug-based medicine is developing
special designer medications to treat these conditions. These synthetic drugs
have many side affects. Ayurveda provides a best alternative to the treatment
of these psychological diseases through herbal formulations and allied
therapies.

Many of the patients who come to Ayurvedic practitioners today do so


seeking some spiritual or psychological relief. They are coming to Ayurveda
as a mind-body medicine with a spiritual basis. They will expect that the
Ayurvedic practitioner can handle emotional and spiritual issues and not just
treat them on a physical level. So Ayurveda’s role as a psychology is quite
important.

However scientific information about psychology and Ayurveda is not easily


available. Because these topics are scattered throughout the Ayurvedic
classics like Charaka, Sushruta, and Vagbhata etc. rather than organized in
one place only. They are also cross over references in Yoga related to
spiritual topics and other methods. Therefore the main needs of Ayurveda

3
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

today is to present a better psychological model and understanding that is


useful in the present cultural context.

We have tried to amalgamate different references from these scripts to make


homogeneous flow for understanding psychology.

Advantage of Ayurvedic treatment in Psychological disorders:

1. Ayurvedic methods of treating psychological disorders are gentle,


natural, and effective.
2. Ayurvedic therapy contributes to a long-lasting state of balance that
reduces the tendency toward recurrences.
3. It offers a more complete understanding of the nature and causes of
psychological disorders.
4. Ayurveda offers effective treatment without negative side effects and
the real possibility of prevention.
5. It promotes higher levels of psychological health.
6. Ayurvedic methods not only increase the balance in the body, they
also progressively raise the overall level of inner contentment.
7. This is a natural antidote to psychological disorders.

Importance of Psychology in Ayurveda -

Manas or Mind is an integral part of Ayurvedic medicinal system and need


to be addressed at each and every part of physical/mental disease. Without
taking into consideration this mind factor any disease cannot be managed
properly. Therefore Psychology is an integral part of practice of ayurvedic
practitioner.

Some important aspects and references about psychology in Ayurveda:

1) The branch which we describe today as “Psychiatry’ was termed as


“Bhoot Vidya” during Veda period. Atharvaveda (of which ayurveda is

4
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

upaveda /sub branch) describes this branch in details, of which some part is
mentioned in ayurvedic scripts.

2) “Graha chikitsa” is one of the eight branches of ayurveda, which


describes psychological and spiritual aspect. 1

3) Ayurveda’s basic concept of Prakruti (Constitution) is vital in diagnosing


and treating the disease. Similar module of Manas Prakruti (constitution) is
also mentioned separately, which indicates that Manas constitutional
evaluation is as important as physical constitutional analysis.

4) In classification of disease two main categories are defined – (Su.su.1)

1)Physical(Sharir)diseases,
2) Psychological (manasika) diseases.

Mental disorders affect physical body and physical disorders affects mind
also. However mental disorders first affects mind and then affects physical
body and vice versa.

5) While examining and treating a patient “Sattva Pariksha” or mental


analysis of a patient is one of the important factors and is described by
Charaka in ten fold examination.

6) In Dhatu sarata (optimum tissue qualities) Sattva sara properties are


described, which indicates importance of mans equal to dhatu / tissue
function (Dharana).

7) If we look at definition of Ayurveda, 2

The terms like Sukham, and Dukkham are perceived by Mind or Manas
only. It shows prime importance of this factor and therefore, we cannot
really understand Ayurveda without looking at its view of the Manas.

5
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

8) Life itself is a combination of Physical body, Sense organs, Mind, Soul. 3

Therefore anything that happens to or in relation to life, Manas factor is


always involved in it.

9) Definition of healthy person - 4

Person is healthy whose –Dosha, dhatu and agni are in balanced state and
whose atman (soul), mind, subjects of senses are in blissful state.

So unless mind is in blissful state, person is not healthy.

10) Kathopanishad nicely describes the role of each component in ones life.
To understand the relationship between Atman (Soul), Manas (Mind),
Buddhi (Intelligence) Indriyas (Sense organs), one should look at the
following similarity -

Our body is Ratha (chariot), in which Atman (Soul) is the King in chariot.

Intelligence (Buddhi) is sarathi (who drives chariot)

Mind is Pragraha (whip), Indriyas (Sense organs) are Horses.

In short if whip (restraint) is not used properly, it cannot control senses,


which leads to diseases or disorders.

Concept of Mind in Ayurveda -

Mind is very unstable, and hence it is very difficult to control the same.
Psychological disorders being related to Manas are therefore very difficult to
treat and from social point of view it is very disturbing to the affected
person, his/her family and in turn society.

So its management is more important than pure physical diseases. To treat


these disorders is a challenge to Vaidya or Physician.

6
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

To have better understanding, we should review what exactly mind is:

Definition of Mind: 5

The entity by which one can perceive happiness etc. subjects is mind.

Qualities of Mind -

Sattva (Principle of light, perception, intelligence, harmony) - 6

Sattva is like an illumination for intellect and is virtuous for body and mind.
It enriches human being with Sukha (pleasures) and knowledge.

A person having enlightening in each and every aspect is a Sattavic


predominant person.

Doshas of Mind 7

Rajas and Tamas are two qualities of mind which when aggravated can
create psychological diseases.

1) Rajas (Principle of energy, activity, emotion, passion) – This quality leads


to attachment promoting and moving towards desires and actions. A person
having greediness, constant attempt to do action, excessive work, anxiety
and desires is Rajas predominant.

2) Tamas (Principle of inertia, dullness, darkness, resistance) - Tamas comes


from ignorance. It develops delusion, inability to take right decision, laziness
and sleepiness. Person with ignorance, non-mobility, delusion etc. should be
taken as Tamas predominant person.

Importance of Mind in Perceiving Knowledge -

7
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

For perceiving any type of knowledge the link must be established between
the object and the mind. When this knowledge is sent to the brain then only
the proper action takes place. 8.

Indriyartha (Object)

Dnyanendriya (Sense organ)

Manas (Mind) –Located in Hridaya

Buddhi (Intelligence) – Located in Atman (Soul)

Manas (Mind) –Located in Hridaya

Karmendriya (Motor Organ)


Kriya (Action)

Being involved in both sensory and motor pathway, Mind is also termed as
Indriya-organ and since it connects sense organs and motor organs it is
called as Ubhayatmak Indriya.

Relationship of Doshas, Trigunas and Five Elements -

When we think of Ayurvedic practice, we must recognize the psychology of


doshas, and gunas. In this scheme, the mind has the main role, the body is

8
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

just the place where these imbalances get lodged, manifest or cause diseases.

Mahabhoot / Great
Element Guna
Prithvi / Earth Tamas
Sattva +
Aap / Water Tamas
Sattva +
Tej / Fire Rajas
Vayu / Air Rajas
Akash / Space Sattva

Dosha Mahabhoot Guna


Vata Vayu + Akash Rajas + Sattva
Pitta Agni Sattva + Rajas
Sattva + Tamas +
Kapha Jala + Prithvi Tamas

DOSHA Sattva Rajas Tamas


Confusion
Clarity Hyperactivity Lack of direction
Vata Creativity Nervouseness Indecisiveness
Lightness Fear Sadness
Anxiety Grief
Knowledge Aggressiveness Anger
Pitta Understanding Competitiveness Hatred
Comprehension Power Envy
Recognition Prestige Jealousy
Love Attachment Deep confusion
Kapha Compassion Greed Unconsciousness
Forgiveness Possessiveness Depression

9
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

There is a relationship between doshas and Gunas as-.

e.g. Sattva is present in the physical doshas as follows-


1. In Pitta as knowledge and understanding
2. In Vata as clarity and lightness
3. In Kapha as forgiveness and love

Tamas is present in the doshas in this order:


1. It is heavy, dull, and sleepy in Kapha.
2. In Pitta, it expresses as aggressiveness and competitiveness.
3. There is very little of it in Vata, but it is represented as confusion.

Ratio of Physical and psychological doshas

Dosha Sattva Rajas Tamas


Vata ++ +++ +
Pitta +++ ++ +
Kapha ++ + +++

Psychological Constitution

Relative predominance of sattva, rajas, or tamas is responsible for individual


psychological constitution.

Sattvic Mental Constitution -


The people in whom sattvic qualities predominate are religious, loving,
compassionate and pure minded. They have good manners, behavior and
conduct. They do not get easily upset or angry. Although they work hard
mentally, they do not get mental fatigue. They are creative, humble and
respectful of their teachers. Worshipping God and humanity, they love all
and care for people.

Rajas Mental Constitution -


The people in whom rajas qualities predominate are egoistic, ambitious,
aggressive, proud, competitive, and have a tendency to control others. They
like power, prestige, position, and are perfectionists. They are hard working
people, but are lacking in proper planning and direction. Emotionally, they

10
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

are angry, jealous, and ambitious. They have a fear of failure, are subject to
stress, and soon lose their mental energy. They are loving, calm and patient
only as long as their self interests are served. They are good, loving, friendly
and faithful only to those who are helpful to them. Their activities are self-
centered.

Tamas Mental Constitution -


The people in whom tamas qualities predominate are less intelligent. They
tend towards depression, laziness, and excess sleep, even during the day. A
little mental work tires them easily. They like jobs of less responsibility, and
they love to eat, drink, sleep and have sex. They are greedy, possessive,
attached, irritable, and do not care for others.

Psychological constitution in brief

Sattvic Rajasiv Tamasic


Intelligent Average intelligent Unintelligent
Good memory Variable memory Poor memory
No strong desire for wealth Strong desire for wealth & No desire,
& status status Lethargic
Depressed &
Polite, Joyful Sometimes rude & angry sorrowful
Calm & quiet Brave, cruel & greedy Fearful, Vile
Questions about God & Believes in
Believes in God & truth truth falsehood
Follow advice when Ignorant about
Health conscious convinced health

Constitutional Analysis
Sattvic Rajasic Tamasic
My diet is vegetarian some meat lots of meat
I use drugs, alcohol, stimulants never occasionally frequently
My sensory impressions and my calm, pure mixed disturbed
thinking are
My need for sleep is low moderate high
My sexual activity is low moderate high
My control of the senses is good moderate weak
My speech is calm & agitated dull & sluggish

11
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

peaceful
My level of cleanliness is high moderate low
In my work I am selfless ambitious for lazy
personal goals
I feel angry rarely sometimes frequently
I feel fear rarely sometimes frequently
I feel desire little some much
I feel pride modest some A lot
I feel depressed never sometimes frequently
I feel love universal love personal love lacking in love
I express violent behaviour never sometimes frequently
I am attached to money little some A lot
I feel contented usually partly never
I forgive easily with effort hold long term
grudges
My concentration is good moderate poor
My memory is good moderate poor
My will power is strong variable weak
I am truthful always most of the time rarely
I am honest always most of the time rarely
I have peace of mind generally partly rarely
My creativity is high moderate low
I engage in spiritual study daily occasionally never
I use mantra or prayer daily occasionally never
I meditate daily occasionally never
I provide service much some none

TOTAL
Sattvic
Rajasic
Tamasic

Sattva, Rajas, Tamas Pleasures –(Sukha) -

Sattvic Pleasure: 9

12
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Sattvic pleasure appears as unpleasent in the beginning, but it proves like


nector in the end, it comes by self knowledge.

Rajasik Pleasure: 10
Rajasic pleasures enjoyed through senses appear as nector in the beginning,
but they turn to poison in the end. Those are rajasik pleasures.

Tamasik Pleasure: 11
Tamasika pleasures deludes a person in the beginning and in the end too. It
comes from nidra, laziness and confusion.

Size of Mind

Mind is atomic (Anu) in size. This is the reason it travels in all body and
fuses with senses to get knowledge.

Functions of Mind (artha/objects) 12

Chintya (Thinking) - Thinking of what to do and what not to do etc.

Veecharya (analysis) - Analysis of the subject. If we do it, will it be


beneficial or not.

Uhya (Speculation) - Speculation and find out probabilities

Dhyeya (aim/Goal) - Goal setting. - Objective

Sankalp - Decision of doing various activities to achieve a goal. -


Determination

Location of Mind

Mind has various faculties and centers. There is good anology for the same -
A king, though the whole kingdom belongs to him, has got special places for
his residence. He has got a splendid palace in the capital and another

13
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

beautiful, palatial building in everywhere for his stay in different seasons.


Similarly, the mind, though it is all-pervading throughout the body, has got
place to reside i.e. Hridaya/Heart

Relationship of Mind with Ojas


Essence of all tissues is Ojas.
It is also described as sub tissue of Shukra dhatu.
The sthana/location of manas and ojus is same. i.e. hridaya.
When ojus gets disturbed / depleted, it may lead to various manas disorders.
The etiological factors, which are responsible for ojus abnormality, are very
much similar to etiological factors of manas disorders.

Manovaha Srotas
Manovaha srotas (channel) is located all over the body as mind functions
and always travels all over the body. All srotasas are of mind also.

Common Causes of Psychological Disorders -

1. Asatmyendriyartha Samyoga -
This means improper contact of sense organs with their objects (including
mind). This can be of three typed- less contact, perverted contact and excess
contact.
This applies to mind also e.g.
E.g. Veecharya/Analysis:
Absence of analysis of any subject leads to inactivity and may lead to
depressive symptoms
Excess analyzing leads to anxiety
Improper analysis leads to improper behaviour and act.

2. Pradnyaparadha -
This means nistaken intellect.
Definition -13
Prajya is dhee (Buddhi / Cosmic intelligence), dhruti and smruti. When there
are abnormalities in these, which results in Pragyaparadha.

Faulty intelligence -Dheevibhram -


Dhee means buddhi, which decides whether the thing is good or bad. In
dheevibhrama., person attracts to various greedy things and wrongly judges
bad thing as good and good thing as bad which leads to bad karma and
behaviour.

14
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Faulty courage –Dhrutivibhram -


Dhruti is courage and capacity to follow the decision taken by Dhee /buddhi.
Though buddhi decides that this is bad thing, dhruti does not have courage to
follow the decision and because of delusion etc. person do bad karma. This
is Dhrutivibhram. Dhruti is a controlling factor in mind. E.g. Buddhi knows
that smoking is bad, but still dhruti doesn’t have that courage to follow this
decision and person go for smoking etc.

Faulty memory –Smrutivibhram -


Smruti is the knowledge gained from previous experience.
We know from past experience that spicy food creates hyperacidity. But still
this experience is overlooked and person again takes spicy food which
ultimately results in hyperacidity again.

Negative karma or actions arises mainly from wrong judgment


(Prajnaparadha or Buddhi dosha), which includes the wrong use of the
senses, prana, emotions and mind. It represents the effect of long term
doshic and gunic distortions as they become lodged in the psyche. Such
wrong judgment begins with rajas, as it involves a factor of willfulness. Yet
it also reflects tamas over time as it indicates tendencies the person is unable
to see, recognize or change. Ayurveda aims at not only for removing doshas
and increasing sattva quality, but also eliminating the negative actions and
karmik patterns (samskaras) which sustain them in our own behavior.

Pradnyaparadha is prime factor for creating psychological disorders.


Aggravated Rajas and Tamas doshas also leads to Pradnyaparadha, which
leads to various diseases.

3. Parinama / Kala –

Changes in day and night, seasons etc. affect body as well as mind.
Abnormal changes can aggravate various physical and psychological doshas
and create diseases. In Unmaad / Schizophrenia psychological doshas gets
vitiated at certain period, e.g. No Moon light, Full Moon light days etc.

15
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

4) Withholding of Urges –These are termed as Vegas / Urges. There are 13


physical urges like urination, defacation, hunger etc. which should not be
suppressed. Sushruta has described these as diseases.

Psychological urges like anger, lust should be restrained. When these are not
controlled they become important causes of many psychological disorders.
14

Kama / Lust
To achieve the pleasure by getting the objects through various sense and
motor organs is known as lust. Excessive lust causes Vata vitiation. Kama
(kust) and krodha (anger) both originate from Rajas (Bhavad Gita).

Krodha / Anger
When something happens against his/her desire/wish, anger is manifested. It
leads to hatred. Analysing power of good and bad diminishes and causes
Pitta vitiation.

Lobha / Greed
The person tries to get the desired thing which belongs to other person. This
leads to vitiation of Kapha dosha.

Moha / Delusion
Extreme affection towards any thing or any individual. When he/she gets
separated from such thing or individual, he/she becomes sad. This causes
Vata vitiation.

Irsha / jealousy
When someone gets intolerant about other persons wealth, progress etc. it is
called as jealousy. This causes Pitta vitiation.

Ego
Self qualities are supposed to be best than that of others. It vitiates Pitta.

Dambha / Haughtiness
Overbearing pride evidenced by a superior manner toward inferiors. It
vitiates Pitta.

16
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Shoka / Grief
When someone looses any person or thing which is very lovable to him then
the grief is caused. It vitiates Vata dosha.

Bhaya / Fear
Fear of any person or thing. Excess fear also causes Vata vitiation.

Harsha / Exuberance of joy


When the person gets the desired thing he/she becomes extremely happy.
Excessive over joy causes Vata vitiation.

Asuya / finding fault in others


Always try to find out faults in others qualities. It causes Vata vitiation.

Vishada (Depression / disappointment)


When there is disappointment in the work and expected results are not seen
and undesirable things come out there is Vishada. This leads to Vata
vitiation.

Dainya / Depression
It is miserable state of mind. Depression in early stages vitiates Vata and in
later stages vitiates Kapha also.

Vishada is miserable state of mind from loss of hope and courage.


Dainya is miserable state of mind from suffering or distress.
The ultimate mental state in both is more or less similar but in Vishada, the
miserable state is mainly because, there is fear of getting dejected or fear of
being unsuccessful, so the person doesn't get involved himself in any
activity. Similar mental condition is there in Dainya, but it is because of
distress or suffering.

Matsarya / Envy
Hatred or envy causes Pitta vitiation.

Udvega (neurosis)
When you don’t get any instant solution you get frusted and if this happens
constantly, neurosis sets in. Neurosis causes Vata vitiation.

17
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

General Classification of causes –

Imbalance of mind can be caused by two main things – 1. Getting undesired


things – Labhaschya anishtasya and 2. Not getting desired – Alabhaschya
ishtasya.

Getting things which are undesired -

Dvesha –Hatred
Vishada – Depression
Dainya – Miserable state
Krodha -Anger

Depression

Not getting things which are desired -

Iccha -Desire
Matsarya -Envy
Lobha -Greed
Chinta -Worry

Anxiety

Relation of Doshas in Psychological Disorders -

18
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

The doshas as they accumulate as toxins have negative emotional


components like Vata as fear, Pitta as anger and Kapha as attachment as all
Ayurvedic students are well aware of. Vata dosha in particular has strong
psychological ramifications because the mind is part of the sphere of Vata
and also composed mainly of the same air and ether elements. Vata
problems usually include psychological problems, starting with fear,
insecurity and anxiety. Management of Vata always must include a lot of
psychology.

Pain of any type first imbalances Vata, so pain management of any type will
involve a strong component of anti-Vata considerations. Stress also tends to
first imbalance Vata; so much of stress relief is anti-Vata in scope and
orienation.
Vata is most important dosha in our body. Without vata other 2 doshas, pitta
and kapha are unable to perform their function/pangu. 15

The qualities/properties of vata are very much similar to mind. Vata


regulates and boosts mind. 16 Hence for management of psychological
disorders control of Vata dosha is most important.

Yet the other two doshas have their own key psychological components and
considerations as well. Each patient will have a particularly psychological as
well as physical constitution that we must be able to understand in order to
arrive at an effective treatment plan. 17

Pathogenesis –

If the mind gets disturbed because of etiological factors like Prajnyaparadha


etc. then mind cannot perform its normal function, which results in vitiation
of manas and physical doshas. Thus body-mind apparatus is in disturbed
state. When the mind is in a status of health, it contains positive feelings like

19
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

those of love, affection, sharing, caring, etc. Due to above mentioned


etiological factors, the natural state of the mind is disturbed and these
positive feelings are driven out. They then give place to above mentioned
negative feelings like those of anger, jealousy, cruelty, laziness, etc.
According to Ayurveda these negative feelings are emotional toxins. If they
are not driven out of body in a stipulated time, they give rise to various
chronic mental disorders.

Bhagavad Gita has given following pathogenesis for all psychological


diseases -

Dhyayato Vishayaat Punsaha,Sangasteshu upajaayate


Sangaat sanjaayate kaamaha kaamaat Krodhobhihi jaayate
Krodhaat bhavati sammoha Sammohaat smrutivibhramaha
Smrutibhranshaat buddhinaasho, buddhinaashat pranashyati || Gita 2/62

Thinking of pleasure

Attachment of objects with sense organs / Sanga

Lust for pleasure by sensual objects / Kama

Non fulfillment of pleasure

Anger/Krodha

Delusion / Sammoha

20
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Vitiation in Recollection/ Smruti vibhrama

Damage of intelligence/ Buddhinasha

Destruction

Examination of the Patient -


The examination of the mind and psychological diseases in Ayurveda is
potentially as complex as its examination of the body and physical diseases.
It is not just a sidelight to be looked at in passing. It requires its own
expertise, attention and application, just as any other branch of Ayurveda
and its therapeutic methods. While one doesn’t have to be a trained
psychologist in order to deal with the psychological aspect of Ayurveda, any
more than one has to be a medical doctor to deal with its physical aspects,
one does have to do some study of the mind and how it works.

Dosha factor in psychological conditions -

According to Ayurveda diseases are created due to aggravation of Doshas.


Depending on the nature and complexicity of aggravation of doshas,
prognosis of the disease becomes either easy to cure or difficult to cure.

In a nutshell, three factors are responsible for disease -

21
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

1) Doshic imbalances (constitutional/external factors of daily routine etc)


2) Excess of rajas and tamas in the mind.
3) Results of previous actions or past deeds.

Doshic imbalances usually rest upon an excess of rajas or tamas, which in


turn reflect deeper karmic disharmonies.

To examine the patient in psychological aspect, we must follow the


examination pattern which is applicable for physical examination of the
patient. In addition, following points should be considered.

1. Person having optimum Sattva -Ayurveda has described qualities of a


person who has sound mind (Sattva sara). The qualities of such person are –
Best memory, religious, intelligent, sacred, enthusiastic, alert, courageous,
strong power to defeat enemy in the battlefield, never get depressed, stable,
deep intellectual thinking, involve their mind in goodness of mankind.

2. Details of his relation with all the family members, his sexual relations
with the wife, his relations with friends, his social habits and his addictions
all should be noted.

Common Symptoms -

Mental Disorders Symptoms according to Doshas -

Vata: Fear, Anxiety, Unrest, Rapid Mood Swings; Insanity, Schizophrenia


etc.

Pitta: Blaming others; Anger, Aggression, Ambition, See enemies


everywhere, Always on guard ready for a fight, At war with oneself and
one's past.

Kapha: Excess sleep, Day sleep, Day dream, Attached to past, Dull and
lethargic, Low drive/motivation, Dependent, Childish desire to be cared for.

22
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Treatment

1) Yuktivyapashraya/ Rational therapy -Using appropriate foods, herbs


and clinical therapies of opposite qualities to that of aggravated doshas.

2) Sattvavajaya / Psychotherapies 18 – For increasing sattva quality of


mind and keeping mind calm and quiet by withdrawing sense organs from
their outside world and following Sadvritta or Achara rasayana

3) Daivavyapashraya /Divine or Spiritual therapies - Spiritual methods to


reduce bad deeds in the past life, with the help of various rituals, wearing
gems and colors as well as chanting of mantras and the preyer to specific
deities. Reference guide about treatment in ayurvvedic scripts are – 19

This also includes obtaining gyan (Spiritual knowledge), Vigyan


(Shastra/scientific knowledge), dhairya (Courage), increasing memory,
meditation, sacrifice, rituals, rules, fast, swasthavritta etc.

Atmavigyan : Who am I, ? What is good and bad for me ?

Deshagyan (ritus in specific place, prakop of doshas etc), Kulagyan, Kaal


gyan, Balagyan, shakti gyan etc.

Rational Therapy -

1. Shodhana -Purification

When dosha vitiation is abundant, shodhana is indicated in psychological


disorders. Following Panchakarma procedures are implemented.

Vamana/ Medicated Emesis -Indicated especially in Kapha dominance.


With proper pre- procedures of snehana and swedana, Vamana is given with

23
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Liquorice decoction. “Purana Ghritam”/10-100 year old ghee snehana gives


best results.

Veerechana/ Medicated purgation -Indicated especially in Kapha and Pitta


type. With proper pre karma procedures of snehana and swedana, Virechana
is given with Aragwadh (Cassia fistula) or Triphala decoction. “Purana
Ghritam”/10-100 year old ghee snehana gives best results.

Basti -As psychological disorders are closely related to “Vata” dosha, this
specific Panchakarma procedure is very important. In these patients, first
Basti is given and then Niruha/decoction basti is given. It is followed by
alternate anuvasan/oil basti and niruha/decoction basti. Sesame oil and
Dashamoola decoction are used for these basti.

Nasya -This panchakarma procedure is one of the best treatments for


psychological disorders. Because of it approximation with brain and it gives
instant relief in these disease. With proper pre procedures, strong nasya is
recommended with Vacha (Acorus calamus) in the powder or oil form. For
this purpose powder of marich or black pepper can be used.

Shirodhara- It is special treatment for many psychological disorders. The


oil poured on Sthapani Marma point or the point of third eye gives direct
impact on Ajnya chakra and thus it helps to calm down aggressiveness, thus
balances Rajasic dosha. Music as per dosha vitiation during this process is
especially played. Shiva stotra chanting during shirodhara gives additional
benefits. Oil such as Brahmi oil or buttermilk (Takradhara) is used for
shirodhara.

Shirobasti -Medhya oil such as brahmi oil or Amalaki oil is poured in the
cap put on head of the patient. It is kept about 30-45 minutes on head. This
procedure is best for stabilization of mind and buddhi.

2) Shamana -Pacification

24
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Important difference in treatment factor -Ayurveda doesn’t recommend use


of sedative medications for mental disorders as recommended by allopathy,
but insists use of Medhya herbs which boosts intellect and thus, this intellect
in turn directs mind to normalize its function.

Medhya Rasayana -

These are special herbs mainly useful in the ailments of “Manovaha


srotasa”. They contain Prabhava (special effect) by which strength and
stability of mind is established.

Calamus / Vacha (Acorus calamus), Gotu kola / Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri),


Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera),
Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Basil (Ocimum basilicum), Sandalwood
(Santalum album), Valerian (Valeriana wallichi), Guggul (Commiphora
mukul), Sarpagandha (Raulwofia serpentina), Manduka parni (Centella
asiatica), Shankha pushpi, Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia)

1. Calamus / Vacha

Vacha means literally “speaking”, the power of the word, of intelligence or


self expression that herb stimulates.

Botanical Name (Latin)- Acorus calamus, Sanskrit Name -Vacha,


Mangalya, Common Name (English) -Sweet Flag

Effect on the Doshas- Vata - Pitta + Kapha -

Rasa (Taste) - Pungent, Bitter, astringent, Virya (Energy/Potency) -Hot,


Vipaka (Post-Digestive effect) - Pungent

Dhatu Affinity (Tissues Entered) - Nervous system, Gunas (Properties):


Light, sharp, subtle. Plant Part Used - Root.

25
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Being hot in property, especially useful as a stimulant especially in


conditions like depression. Useful in epilepsy, Schizhophrenia, Vata
pacifier. Excessive dose may leads to vomiting.

2. Brahmi

Brahmi aids knowledge of Brahman, the supreme reality. It is also called as


Saraswati, Divya (divine), Mahaushadhi.

Botanical Name (Latin) - Bacopa moniera, Sanskrit Name –Brahmi,


Common Name (English) -Thyme Leaved Gratiola.

Effect on the Doshas - Vata - Pitta - Kapha -

Rasa (Taste) - Bitter, astringent, sweet. Virya (Energy) –Cool, Vipak


(Post-Digestive Action): Madhura/Sweet. Guna - Light, Plant Part Used:
whole plant.

Brahmi acts as a powerful brain food, and is known for its ability to enhance
mind power (Medhya effect). It supports and improves all aspects of mental
functioning, including comprehension (Dhi), memory (Dhriti) and
recollection (Smriti). It is important because it also enhances the crucial
coordination of these three aspects of mental functioning. Growing
commonly in the Himalayas, it is used by yogis as food for meditation. It
awakens crown chakra and helps to balance ida and pingala.

Rasayan, Swarya, Smruti enhancer.

3. Mandukaparni -Centella asiatica

Mandukparni has similar properties to that of Brahmi. Brahmi and


mandukparni are two different herbs. Sushruta has given different
formulations of brahmi and mandukaparni. (Su.Chi. 28/4)

26
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

4. Jatamansi -

Botanical Name (Latin)- Nardostachys jatamamsi, Sanskrit Name:


Jatamansi, Tapaswini, Common Name (English): Indian spikenard

Effect on the Doshas - Pitta -

Rasa (Taste): bitter, astringent, sweet. Virya (Energy)- cold, Vipaka (Post-
Digestive Action) – sweet, Guna (Qualities): light, oily, penetrating.
Prabhava (Special Potency) - Medhya

Dhatu Affinity (Tissues Entered): rasa, rakta, mamsa, shukra, nervous


system. Plant Part Used - root, rhizomes, oil

Only found at high altitudes (from 10,000 to 17,000 feet) in India, Bhutan,
and Sikkim.

Best herb to combat the effects of day-to-day stress. It has the property of
enhancing the body's innate ability to sleep well.

It is considered a holy or "divine" plant in ayurveda and has traditionally


been used as an air purifier. Charaka's ayurvedic text recommends it highly
for insomnia, mental instability and to enhance memory. It protects mind
from external supernatural forces so it is also called as “bhutaghni” Active
Substances: Jatamanson. Its Heema (cold infusion) is used.

5. Ashwagandha -

Latin - Withania somnifera, Sanskrit: Ashwagandha.Vajigandha, Balada


English: - Winter Cherry, Parts Used -Root and leaves

Effect on the Doshas - Vata - Pitta + Kapha -

Rasa -Bitter, astringent, Virya: hot. Actions -Aphrodiasic, Balya, Rasayani

27
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Ashwagandha has many significant benefits, but is best known for its
powerful adaptogenic properties, meaning that it helps mind and body adapt
better to stress. It nourishes the nerves and improves nerve function to help
you maintain calm during stressful situations. It is a powerful Rasayana,
meaning that it acts as an overall tonic for greater vitality and longevity. It
nourishes all the bodily tissues (Dhatus), including the joints and nerves. It is
also a powerful Medhya Rasayana, which means that it enhances all three
aspects of mind power (Dhi -- comprehension; Dhriti -- memory; and Smriti
-- recollection).

Ashwagandha nourishes the crucial mind-body connection and psychoneuro


immune response (called PNI). It helps coordinate the mind and senses, as
well, which is essential for good quality sleep. It balances the mind (Prana
Vata). This is essential for happiness in the case of mental or emotional
stress. It increases the quality and quantity of Ojas, the master coordinator
between the body and consciousness. It helps pure consciousness slide into
the physiology. It is considered among the best of all substances for
balancing Vata. It also pacifies Kapha at the same time, which is a rare
combination.

6. Shankhapushpi

Botanical Name (Latin): Convolvulus pluricaulis, Sanskrit Name:


Shankhapushpi, Mangalyakusuma

Effect on the Doshas: Vata - Pitta + Kapha –

Rasa (Taste): Astringent, Virya (Energy): hot, Prabhava (Special Potency):


Medhya, Dhatu Affinity (Tissues Entered): shukra, manovaha srotas

Effects -Rasayana, Medhya, Vrishya, Pacifying all manas diseases, Smruti


enhancer, Kanti enhancer, Increases digestive fire, Antiepileptic,
Bhutaghnee, Daridrya, Wormicidal, Anti poisonous.

28
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

7. Amalaki

Amalaki or Dhatri is like nurse or mother in its healing properties. Botanical


Name (Latin): Emblica officinalis, Sanskrit Name: Amalaki. Common Name
(English): Indian Gooseberry

Effect on the Doshas: Vata - Pitta - Kapha -

Rasa (Taste) - Five tastes excluding salty. Virya (Energy) - Cold. Vipaka
(Post-Digestive Action) - Sweet. Guna (Qualities) - Light.

Prabhava (Special Potency) -Cooling, diuretic, mild purgative, digestive,


longevity of life

Dhatu Affinity (Tissues Entered) -Alll 7 dhatus, increases Ojas.

Plant Part Used: fruit

Pharmacological Action: Tonic, erythrogenic, digestive laxative, rasayana,


refrigerant, diuretic, laxative, gastric acidity regulator, expectorant,
antiinflammatory, restorative tonic, regulates blood sugar, aphrodisiac,
nervine tonic, hemostatic. A natural, efficacious and safe herb, an anti-
oxidant with the richest natural source of Vitamin C, to protect cells against
free radical damage. Fresh amla contains about 20 times more vitamin C
than orange juice and equal in antiscorbutic value to 1-2 oranges.

8. Jyotishmati

Botanical Name (Latin): Celastrus paniculatus, Sanskrit name: Jyotishmai,


Paravatpadi, Common Name (English): Staff tree

Effect on the Doshas: Vata - Pitta + Kapha -

29
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Rasa (Taste) - Bitter, pungent, Virya (Energy) - Ushna (Atyushna), Vipak


(Post-Digestive Action) - Pungent, Guna (Qualities) - Penetrating

Increases intelligence, digestive fire.

9. Tulsi –Holy Basil

Botanical Name (Latin): Ocimum basilicum, Sanskrit Name: Tulsi,


Common Name (English): Basil

Effect on the Doshas - Vata - Pitta = Kapha -

Rasa (Taste) - Katu / Pungent, Virya (Energy): Hot, Vipak (Post-Digestive


Action) -Pungent, Plant Part Used: Leaves

Pharmacological Action - Antibacterial, antiviral antiparasitic, pesticidal,


sharpens memory; diaphoretic diuretic tranquilizer nervine cardiac
bronchodilator removes ghosts yields a kind of electricity stimulates the
heart, strengthens trust, commitment, dedication, faith.

Tulasi is one of the most sacred plant. Its quality is pure sattva. It is sacred to
Vishnu and lord Krishna.To reduce the malefic effects, plant Tulsi in the
house at entrance. Tulsi has holy vibrations and takes care of many illnesses.
While all plants take in corbon dioxide and exhale oxygen, Tulsi is believed
to exhale ozone, more active oxygen. Indian cow likes sunlight, Tulsi also
flourishes in sunlight. Nature produces strongest wide spectrum medicinal
herbs when herbs exploit sunlight for their growth.

10. Chandan -Sandalwood

Botanical Name (Latin) - Santalum album, Sanskrit Name - Chandana,


Common Name (English): Sandalwood, Effect on the Doshas: Vata - Pitta
- Kapha +

30
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Rasa (Taste) -Bitter, sweet, astringent. Virya (Energy)- Cold, Vipaka (Post-
Digestive Action): Pungent, Guna (Qualities): light and dry.

Dhatu Affinity (Tissues Entered) - rasa, rakta, mamsa, majja, Plant Part
Used - wood, bark. Volatile oil.

Pharmacological Action: sedative, astringent, diuretic, expectorant,


stimulant alterative, hemostatic, antiseptic, antibacterial, carminative,
sedative, refrigerant.

Sandalwood cools and calms entire body and mind too. Few drops of
sandalwood oil applied on third eye will relieve heat. Sandalwood helps
awakening intelligence. It also helps to open third eye, to increase devotion
and promote meditation. It also aids in transmutation of sexual energy.

11. Tagar -

Botanical Name (Latin) - Valeriana wallichi, Sanskrit Name – Tagara,


Common Name (English): Indian Valerian

Effect on the Doshas - Vata - Pitta - Kapha –

Rasa (Taste) - Sweet, astringent, Virya (Energy) - Hot, Vipak (Post-


Digestive Action): Pungent, Guna (Qualities) - light, oily.

Dhatu Affinity (Tissues Entered): majja, nervous system Plant Part Used:
whole plant. It is one of the best herbs for vata generated mind disorders. It
clears nerve channels of accumulated vata. Owing to large amount of earth
element, it is grounding and helps unstable disorders like vertigo, fainting,
hysteria etc.

12. Yashtimadhu

31
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Botanical Name (Latin): Glycyrrhiza glabra, Common Name (English):


Liquorice.

Effect on the Doshas: Vata - Pitta - Kapha -

Rasa (Taste): Sweet, Virya (Energy): Cold, Vipaka - Sweet, Guna


(Qualities): Heavy, oily. Actions - Balya, Netrya, Shukrala, Antitoxic.

13. Shatavari

Botanical Name (Latin) - Asparagus racemosus. Common Name (English):


Asparagus. Sanskrit Name - Shatavari, Narayani, Sahasravirya,
Rushyaprokta.

Effect on the Doshas - Vata - Pitta - Kapha -

Rasa (Taste): Sweet, bitter, Virya (Energy) - Cold, Vipak (Post-Digestive


Action) - Sweet, Guna (Qualities) - Heavy, oily.

Rasayana, Medhya, Vrishya, Netrya, Increases digestive fire.

Minerals useful in psychological diseases -

1. Abhrak bhasma (Mica ash) -Pacifies Vata and Kapha. Best tonic to
Manas. It boosts immunity and mental strength.

2. Suvarna bhasma -It is sweet, astringent, oily in nature and cool (Sheet)
inpotency. It is one of the best detoxifier and acts on smruti, Pragya of the
manas. Best cardiotonic (location of mind) and pitta, vata pacifier.

3. Roupya bhasma (Silver ash) -Best intellect booster and regulates function
of Sadhak pitta. Best Vata and Pitta pacifier.

Formulations useful in psychological disorders -

32
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

1. Saraswat churna -Equal combination of Brahmi, Shankhapushpi, Vacha.


Indications: Apasmaara, Bhutonmaada, Dose: 5 gm. Anupana: Milk, Water.

2. Lashunadi Ghee -Ghee processed in Garlic, Trikatu, Hirda, cow milk etc.
It also can be used for Nasya.

3. Bhramhi Ghee -Ghee processed in gotu kola herb juice), Indications:


Apasmaara, Unmaada, Vandhyatva. Dose: 10gm. Anupana: Warm milk,
warm water.

4. Kalyanaka Ghee -Ghee processed in Shaliparni group of herbs. -


Shaliparni, haridra, triphala, sariva Indrayan, talispatra etc. 28 herbs.
It pacifies all bad effect of planets.,
Indications: Apasmaara, Bhutonmaada, balagraha, Vishavikara, Vandhyatva,
Dose: 10gm.
Anupana: Warm milk, warm water.

5. Mahapaishachik Ghee -Ghee processed in Jatamansi, Shankhapushpi,


Gotu kola, Shatavari, Jeeveniya herbs. It strengthens intellect, memory etc.

6. Panchagavya Ghee -Cow Ghee processed in cow milk, cow urine, cow
dung, cow yoghurt. Indications: Apasmaara, Unmaada, Dose: 10gm.
Anupana: Warm milk, warm water.

7. Brahmiprash -Jam made up of gotu kola juice and cane sugar.

8. Shankhapushpi Awaleha -Jam processed in Shankhapushpi, gotu kola,


calamus etc.

9. Unmaadgajakesari -Formulation made up of mercury, , sulphur (Kajjali),


Dhattoor beej etc.

10. Bhootbhairav Rasa -Formulation prepared from mercury, , sulphur


(Kajjali) iron ash, copper ash etc.

11. Smrutisagar Rasa -Formulation prepared from mercury, sulphur


(Kajjali) copper ash processed in gotu kola, calamus, jyotishmati etc.
decoction). Indications: Manas roga, chittodvega, Smritinaasha,
chittavibhrama. Dose: 125 mg tds. Anupana: Milk or ghee.

33
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

12. Manasmitra Vatakam -Bala, naagbala, bilva, shankhapushpi, prawal


pishti etc.72 herbs. Indications: Apasmaara, Unmaad, Manas dosha,
buddhimandyatva. Dose: 1-2 tabs bd/tds. Anupana: Milk

13. Unmaadgajakeshari rasa -Parad, Gandhak, vacha, Brahmi, Manashila,


dhattoor. Indications: Unmaada, Apasmaara. Dose: 250-500 mg. Anupana:
Ghee, honey, nagavalli swaras

14. Vasantkusumakar rasa -Best tonic and gives strength to all tissues and
mans.

15. Sameerpannag Rasa -Best formulation of Kajjali, hartal, arsenic etc.


Potent Vata, kapha pacifier. Usefulin acute stages of mental disprders,

16. Saraswatarishtam
Medicated wine made up of Gotu kola, asparagus, haritaki, ginger, fennel,
gold etc. it is best mind rejuvenator, memory enhancer and antistress tonic.
Indications -Manas doshas, shukra dosha, Apasmaar. Anupana-Water. Dose:
12-14ml

17. Chyavanprash -Chyavanprash is a comprehensive herbal tonic with


multiple health benefits, prepared according to an ancient Ayurvedic
formula. Used by people all over the world today, it is a proven energizer,
immunity booster and pre-emptive tonic.
Maharshi Chyavan first prepared this medicine to bring back youth in an old
and fragile body of king. Hence this is known as "Chyavan-Prash”. It boosts
intelligence, memory, comeliness of body, freedom from disease, longevity,
strength of the senses, great pleasure in the companionship with women,
great increase in the strength of the digestive fire, improvement of the
complexion, and preserves the harmony of the three doshas.
This unique ‘jam’ is a mixture of 49 powerful ayurvedic herbs with 'amla'
(Indian gooseberry) as the base. The other ingredients in this traditional
recipe include ashwagandha, pippali, cardamom, nutmeg and cinnamon in a
base of clarified butter and honey. This magic elixir is good for all,
irrespective of age and gender, and creates a harmonious synergy in the body
leading to better metabolism.

34
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

18. Brahmi taila- This medicated oil contains brahmi, amalaki and sesame
oil. This can be used for external application, shirodhara etc this oil can be
used.

Relation of Shukra dhatu to Mind

Ojas is considered as the essence of Shukra dhatu – the reproductive tissue.


State of Ojas reflects the state of mind and there is relation between ojas and
mind. If mind is in perfect state, ojus of a person will be perfect. Ojas is also
called as subtissue / upadhatu of Shukra and is essence of all dhatus. So
there is very close relation of mind and Shukra dhatu. Hence the herbs useful
in enhancement of Shukra dhatu are also useful in treating psychological
disorders. Functions of Shukra are harsha -joy, dhairya- courage, chyavana-
will power, preeti -satisfaction, which are factors related to mind. Fear can
be overcomed by courage.

Medhya Rasayana

Functions of Rasayana
A) Adaptogenic
B) Neurotic
C) Immunomodulators
D) Anti oxidant
E) Anabolic
F) Psychotropic

How Rasayana acts

Improves appetite
Improves power of digestion
Free the channels in the body
Makes proper flow of plasma
Reduces unwanted waste
Increases essential part
Produces quality tissues
Promote healthy life

35
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Medhya Rasayana –
When it acts on Cognition, can be labeled as "Neurotropic" .When it acts on
Mind, can be labeled as "Psychotropic" and when it acts on "Behavioural
aspect", it is labeled as both Psychotropic as well as Neurotropic.

Neurotropics are drugs which directly targets nervous system. It is used


especially in diseased persons. Now a days new term nootropic is in use for
those drugs which enhance mental performance especially in healthy
individuals (like nutraceuticals, supplements etc).
Neurotropics and Psychotropics have both stimulant and depressant actions.
According to its actions, helps to treat the diseased condition.

Neurotropics -

1. Stimulants -
MR - Mental Retardation
LD - Learning Disability.
Dementias

2. Depressants:
ADHD

Psychotropics -
1.Stimulants -
Autism
Depression

2.Depressants -
ADHD
Anxiety

Classification of herbs -

Stimulants

Herbs having stimulant effect on manas/mind and buddhi/intellect -Vacha,


Shankhapushpi, Jyotishmati, Ashwagandha, Tagar, Tulasi. These herbs play
vital role in conditions like – Autism, Depression, Mental retardation,
Inattention in ADHD, Depressive phase of bipolar disorder

36
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Depressants / Pacifers
Herbs having soothing/pacifying effect on mind and intellect. These are –
Mandukparni, Brahmi, Yashtimadhu, Shatavari, Jatamansi, Chandan,
Amalaki.

These herbs play vital role in conditions like –Anxiety, Hyperactivity and
impulsivity in ADHD, Alzimers disease, Maniac phase of bipolar disorder
and Schizophrenia.

Abhyanga –Oil massage

Herbalized oil massage is used in treatments to aid the cleansing process and
pacifying Vata as well.

Herbalized oil massage provides a deeply soothing and balancing effect for
the entire physiology. The motion of massage creates heat and friction which
enhance circulation and help cleanse affected tissues of chemical impurities
that could be causing symptoms of psychological disorders. The oil and
herbs cleanse and nourish the tissues to aid their repair and development.

The various herbs that have been boiled into base oil, and the oil itself, are
specifically chosen for their effect on removing the imbalances at the basis
of your condition. Sesame oil, coconut oil and mustard oils are best base
oils for vata, pitta and kapha type respectively.

The oil helps the balancing process by allowing the herbs to more deeply
penetrate the affected tissues. By entering into deep tissues, it helps to pacify
vata.

Kundalini Massage - Special type of massage with Medhya (intellect


boosting) herbal oil is given to merudand (spinal cord). This gives best
results in psychological abnormalities.

Diet

37
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Food you eat is either sattvic, rajasic or tamasic according to its character
and effect upon the body and the mind. One can find out the nature or
temperament of a man from the nature of the food he prefers.

Sattvic food
Sattvic food is always freshly cooked and simple, juicy, It is light, unctuous,
nourishing, sweet and tasty. It increases the energy of the mind and produces
cheerfulness, serenity and mental clarity. Sattvic food is highly conducive to
good health.
Milk, butter, ghee (clarified butter) fresh buttermilk, fresh ripe fruits as
pomegranate, apple, bnana, oranges, grapes etc., almonds, dates, moong
(green gram) sprouts, barley, wheat, cereals, fresh green vegetables like
spinach, green beans, tomatoes, parwar(bitter gourd), karela, plantains etc.,
are sattvic.The spices commonly used in sattvic cooking are turmeric,
ginger, cinnamon, coriander, fennel (saunf) and cardamom.

The sattvic personality


People who follow the sattvic way of eating are known to be clear-minded,
balanced, and spiritually aware. They usually avoid alcohol, stimulants like
tea, coffee, tobacco and non-vegetarian food.

Rajasic food
This food is fresh but heavy. It includes non-vegetarian food like meat, fish,
eggs, and chicken, all whole pulses and dals (not sprouted), hot spices like
chillies, pepper and all vegetables including onion and garlic. The rajasic
diet is also cooked fresh and is nutritious. It may contain a little more oil and
spices compared to sattvic food. It benefits those who believe in action and
aggression in a positive way such as business persons, politicians, and
athletes.
Rajasic foods are bitter, sour, salty, pungent, hot and dry. ketchup’s, vinegar,
wines, pickles, pungent condiments, sweets, fried bread, curd, egg plant,
carrots, urad (black gram), onions, garlic, lemon, masur (red gram), tea,
coffee, betel leaves, tobacco are rajasic articles of food.

The Rajasic personality


These foods create sensuality, sexuality, greed, jealousy, anger, delusion,
fantasies, egotism and irreligious feelings.

They are interested in the four P's - power, prestige, position and prosperity.
But they are quite in control of their lives and aren’t obsessed by any of the

38
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

above. They are go-getters and know how to enjoy life.The rajasic man
always plans to prepare various kinds of preparations to satisfy his palate.
The palate remains unsatisfied until the stomach is completely filled with
pungent things and till the tongue is burnt with chillies.

Tamasic food
This includes foods that are not fresh, overcooked, stale and processed —
foods made from refined flour (maida), pastries, pizzas, burgers, chocolates,
soft drinks, rumali roti, naan, alcohol, canned and preserved foods like jams,
pickles and fermented foods, over fried foods, sweets made from sugar, ice
creams, puddings and most ‘fun foods’ are included in this list. All spicy,
salty, sweet and fatty foods form part of the tamasic diet. Beef, fish, eggs,
wine, garlic, onions and tobacco are tamasic foodstuffs.

Exercise

Ayurveda recommends that the exercise should be done to the extent of half
of the body strength. Thus Ayurvedic recommendation is to never exert
more than 50% of your capacity. This amount will differ from person to
person, depending on body type, age and overall health. The symptoms are
when the sweat starts to form on your nose, forehead or under the arms.
Another sign is when a person no longer breathes through the nose.
Breathing through the nose is recommended for ayurvedic exercise. This is
the time when you should stop your exercise. If one follows this one
guideline, will always feel energized by exercise instead of exhausted. And
each day, you will find that your capacity increases to exercise more
intensely or for a longer duration. Very naturally you will be able to handle
more exercise without ever straining.

Vedic exercise, such as Yoga and Sun Salutes, are the most highly regarded
forms of exercise because they rejuvenate and purify the body at a subtle
level. Walking is also an excellent form of exercise for almost anyone, and is
gentle enough for Vata types. Swimming is ideal for Pitta types, and most
Kapha types have a greater capacity for longer and more intense exercise.

39
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Exercise at night is not recommended in ayurveda, because that's when your


mind and body should be preparing for sleep. The Kapha time in the
morning is the ideal time.

Ayurvedic psychotherapy -

This is done to increase the sattva quality of the mind.

Achara Rasayana

This includes social as well as personel behavior as follows-

Truthfulness, freedom from anger, non-indulgence in alcohol, nonviolence


calmness, sweet speech, engaged in meditation, cleanliness, perseverance
charitable, religious, respectful toward teachers, parents and elders, loving
and compassionate, balanced in sleep and wakefulness, using ghee regularly,
knowing the measure of time and place, controlling the senses, keeping the
company of elders and the wise, positive attitude, self-control, devoted to
Vedic scriptures.

Sadvritta

Eat a light, nutritious breakfast. Digestive power is not very strong in the
morning.
Work or study according to your dharma, meaning activity that is enjoyable
and life supporting for you
Lunch should be the biggest meal of the day because your digestion is
strongest then. Diet should be balanced according to your constitutional
type. It's important to eat sitting down and pay attention to the food with all
your senses.
Work according to your dharma.
Practice yogasanas, pranayama and meditation before the evening meal.
Supper should be lighter than lunch so that your body can digest it
completely before you go to bed. Then your body can use its nighttime
digestive power to get rid of impurities while you sleep.

40
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Enjoy some pleasant relaxing activity, and then go to bed early

Yoga

In Yoga terminology, chitta is often a general term for the mind as a whole,
with manas standing for the sensory mind. In Vedantic terminology, manas
more commonly assume the role of the mind as a whole, with chitta meaning
the memory bank.
Generally, chitta is the general field of mental disturbances (vrittis or kleshas
of Yoga) that need to be calmed or removed. Buddhi is the higher
discriminating intelligence that we must develop in order to remove these
disturbances and gain such peace of mind. It is the outer mental and sensory
activity that keeps these disturbances in motion and needs to be controlled.
Ahamkara is the factor of ego or self-will which keeps this process in
motion. This means that ways of calming the chitta, developing the buddhi,
controlling the manas and reducing ahamkara is essential

The mind is the power of knowledge (jnana-shakti) and the prana is the
power of action (prana-shakti). Classical Yoga as described in the Yoga
Sutras of Patanjali and in the Bhagavad Gita is for making the mind calm
and quiet. By this way one can get rid of psychological disorders.
Ayurveda’s psychological therapy of increasing sattva is mainly a yoga
therapy. Classical Yoga itself is mainly a psychology. This means that
Ayurvedic psychology must employ the tools and views of Yoga.

According to the philosophy of Yoga, the physical body is a manifestation of


consciousness. It is a crystallization of karmic (behavioral) patterns created
by the mind. The key to working with the body, therefore, is to understand
the consciousness behind it, much of which lies outside our ordinary
awareness. This requires that we practice asanas aware not only of the
technicalities of the postures but also of the mental and emotional states that
they create within us.

41
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Yoga means to get rid of various vrittis of Chitta.

Eight Limbs of Yoga -

1. Yama (Rules of social conduct)


Ahimsa - Principle of non-violence
Satya - Principle of Truthfulness
Asteya - Principle of non stealing
Brahmacharya - Continence / celibacy
Aparigah - A principle of non-hoarding or non possessiveness
2. Niyama (Rules of personal conduct)
Shoucha - Purity
Santosh - Contentment
Tapa - Endurance
Swadhyaya- Self study
Eshwar Pranidhan- Dedication
3. Asana - (Yoga Postures / positions) A stable and comfortable
posture which helps attain mental equilibrium.
4. Pranayama - (Breath control) Extension and control of breath.
5. Pratyahara - (Withdrawal of Senses) A mental preparation to
increase the power of mind.
6. Dharana - (Concentration on object) Concentration of mind on one
object and its field.
7. Dhyan - (Meditation) Withdrawing mind from all external objects
and focusing it on one point and meditating on it.
8. Samadhi - (Salvation) State of Super bliss, joy and merging
individual consciousness in to universal consciousness. Union
between Jivatman and Paramatman. Union of Shiva and Shakti in
Sahasrar Chakra (the top of the head). Realizing the Bramhan (pure
consciousness) or Realization of God is the ultimate achievement of
Human Birth.

Pranayama

"Pranayama is control of Breath". "Prana" is Breath or vital energy in the


body. On subtle levels prana represents the pranic energy responsible for life
or life force, and "ayama" means control. Therefore Pranayama is "Control
of Breath". One can control the rhythms of pranic energy with pranayama
and achieve healthy body and mind.

42
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Patanjali in his text of Yoga Sutras mentioned pranayama as means of


attaining higher states of awareness; he mentions the holding of breath as
important practice of reaching Samadhi. Hatha Yoga also talks about 8 types
of pranayama which will make the body and mind healthy.

Five types of prana are responsible for various pranic activities in the body;
they are Prana, Apana, Vyan, Udana & Samana. Out of these Prana and
Apana are most important. Prana is upward flowing and Apana is downward
flowing. Practice of Pranayama achieves the balance in the activities of these
pranas, which results in healthy body and mind.

Pranayama or control of breath checks the velocity of the mind and reduces
the quantity of thinking. It removes the dross (impurities) in the form of
Rajas and Tamas from the mind.

Dhyana –Meditation -

Dhyana means the spontaneous concentration of the mind on the object of


Meditation.

'Dhyana'(meditation) is the study of deep concentration, calmness and


tranquility of the mind. It is the study of attaining complete control over
ones mind. Meditation takes the consciousness beyond conscious, sub
conscious & unconscious states to super consciousness.

How do we achieve that?


In the fundamental stages of meditation one has to decide some target upon
which one can concentrate. He has to concentrate with the help of his
sensors like ' Eyes, Nose, Ears, Mouth and Touch'

A target would be anything, which ones mind would like to concentrate


upon. For instance it would be a photograph of ones deity. In this case the
photo frame is the target.

Once you have achieved this for specific period of time you can try for the
'Dhyan'.
To explain with Omkar as the target, we have been looking at it, reciting and
listening the mantra, our mind stays (appeases) upon it for a specific amount
of time. Then further we close our eyes and recollect the picture of the OM

43
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

At the same time we are reciting or listening to the omkar. Then again with
closed eyes we are only hearing the reciting of the mantra on the cassette
without reciting by our mouth. Further our mind only recollects the
experiences taken by our eyes, ears and mouth. The actual Dhyan stage has
only one dimension, now we concentrate on only a part of our target

Meditation Technique

Introduction -As the name suggests this is a very simple and easy technique
of meditation, which can be followed by anyone irrespective of age, sex and
physical condition. Even patients can follow this. The result is experience of
calm and quite Mind and body.

Pre-requisites - This practice is to be done with empty stomach (3 hours after


the meals and 1hour after drinking any soft drink.)
You have to wear loose clothes or loosen your clothes (belt / tie).Remove
the shoes, wristwatch etc.
This can be practiced for any length of time with minimum 10 minutes so
you should keep at least 10 minutes for this practice.
The sitting arrangement must be comfortable.
Avoid the disturbances like phone, bells or even excess light or any other
disturbing reason.

Preposition -Sit comfortably on easy chair or sofa. Straighten the legs but
don't stretch them. Keep your hands on chair or on your knees loosely. Keep
your fingers relaxed. Close your eyes gently. Relax the body.

Procedure -Relax every muscles from toes to the top, one by one and slowly.
Relaxation of muscles creates a feeling of pleasure in your mind and body.
As the muscles are relaxed the breathing becomes slower and slower. Now
focus your Mind on the breathing. Do not control the breathing but witness
it. As the body is relaxing the breathing becomes slow. As the breathing
becomes slow, the Mind becomes calm and quite. As the Mind becomes
calm and quite, the body relaxes further, which further reduces the breathing
rate and so on. After pre planned time elapses, be aware of your breathing,
body parts, make the slow movements and slowly open your eyes and come
to preposition.

Spiritual Therapies -
Dhoop Chikitsa –Inhalation of medicated smoke -

44
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

This is especially useful to calm/pacify mind and give energy to mind.It has
two types – 1.Purification -To take out negative things/vibrations by burning
certain things.e.g. burning of dried chillies, cow dung fumes etc. 2.Mind
strengthening. To spread calmness and tranquility. It could be in form of
burning sacred incenses, agaru (aquaria agalocha), Sandalwood, Guggulu
etc. Ghee lamp lightening is one of the best and sacred dhoop chikitsa.

Mantra Chanting -

Mantra consists of most powerful energized sounds or words. Mantra is a


Sanskrit word made up of two verbs, Man & Tra which in Sanskrit says that
( "Mananat Trayate") just by chanting one can save himself in the universe
that is achieve the ultimate in this material world.

Grouping of sound vibrations (affect mental & psychological plane) Mantra


is nothing but a combination or grouping of various alphabets. An alpha
activity in brain can be seen during the Mantra Chanting.

Mantra is the main healing tool specific to the mind, though it has strong
impacts on the prana as well. It is best way to communicate with God as we
communicate in God’s own language. The concept here is that certain
Sanskrit verses ("mantras") when pronounced correctly by qualified pious
persons ("Brahmanas") have the effect of pleasing the Gods and receiving
their benediction.

Requirements for Mantra Yoga -Generally Mantras can be classified in 2


categories.

Tantric Mantras - This mantras has origin in Tantras, thousands of different


mantras exists and they can be practiced for specific purposes, such as
achieving wealth, health, success, curing specific diseases, longevity. But
this mantras to be learnt from Guru and has lot of restrictions. The effects
are also fast for these mantras. These mantras are difficult to learn.

Vedic Mantras- This is relatively simple and can be practiced by anyone,


they are easy to learn and helps purify emotions of human mind. These
mantras are safe, slowly the practice of these mantras leads to ultimate
salavation. (Om namah shivay, Hare ram hare krishna, Om namo narayan)

45
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Universal mantra OM - If one can't meet his guru, he can select the universal
mantra

State of consciousness in Mantra -Relaxed and concentrated state of mind -


Due to withdrawal from the material thoughts, distractions, focusing of mind
only on Mantra, mind is relaxed and becomes concentrated. Research shows
the presence of alpha wave / rhythm of brain.

Rotation of consciousness around Mantra - Awareness is revolved round the


mantra, its pronunciation, yantra (psychic shape) and its meaning, which
builds up psychic energy which can then be used for spiritual purposes.

Methods of Chanting Mantra -

Vaikhari (Audible) - By chanting a loud which can be heard easily.


Advantages of Baikhari Chanting
- Removes thoughts
- Easy conceptualization of thoughts
- Makes meditation easy

Upanshu (whispering) - Chanting of mantra in low voice, or just whispering


so that only practitioner can understand is called "Upanshu" Chanting.
Advantages of "Upanshu"
- Long duration chanting (8 to 10 hours)
- Purposeful Mantra repetition (example: for wealth, health, land acquisition,
happiness etc.)
- Destiny Errors can be corrected with this type of chanting

Manasik (Mental) - without chanting a loud or whispering, mantra is


repeated in mind, this type of mantra chanting is difficult and can be learnt
only with practice.
Advantages of Mental Chanting
- Subtle form of chanting
- Commonly used by advance practitioners
- Leads to higher states of awareness

Effects of Mantra -

On personal level
- Mantra impacts on mental & psychological plane in a positive way.
- Stirs up emotions (desires, fears, jealousy from subconscious mind to

46
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

conscious level as thoughts.) for removing negative tendencies of mind and


re programming the thinking process
- Creates potential energy reservoir

On surroundings
- Deeper, subtle & astral spheres
- Impacts on macro cosmos & micro cosmos
- Purification of collective conscious mind

How to practice Mantra chanting ?

One should have a Mala or Rosary consisting of 108 beads as is significant


in all Tantra & Veda Texts.
Repeat Mala for 2 to 3 times daily (increase to even 8 to 10 hours) or Chant
Mantra for at least 11 times.

Time of Practice - Morning or evening time

Pranayama during Mantra - Breath and Mantra (So ham with breath) One
can chant the Mantra while exhaling or inhaling or both. While breathing a
subtle sound of "So" can be heard and while exhaling "Ham", which is a
repetition of Mantra "So Ham"

Concentration on object of faith - One should concentrate on following


objects during the practice.
- GOD
- Yantra - psychic symbol of mantra
- Purpose of Mantra on Paper
- Stars in sky

1.Ganesh Gayatri - for knowledge

Om Ekdantay Vidamahe Vakratunday Dhimahi Tanno Dantihi Pracodyat

2.Mantra for Longevity and getting rid of Ailments -


Om Trayambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pusti Vardhanam, Urvarukamiva
Bandhanan Mrityormurksheeya Mamritat.

3.Mantra for cure of fear -


Om Aghorebhyo Thaghorebhyo Ghor Ghor Tarebhyah Sarvebhyah Sarva

47
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Sarvebhyo Namaste Astu Rudra Rupebhyah

For controlling of fear of death etc., meditate on Lord Shiva and perform one
osary of chant everyday with burning of medicated perfumed insence.

4.Mantra for attainment of Pleasure -


Aum Namo Bhagwate Vasudevaya
This mantra of Lord Narayan is very powerful and advantageous. It gives
peace of mind. Moreover, in brings happiness.

5. Mantra for attainment of happiness-


Om Namah Shivaya
This mantra is considered as the five-lettered mantra related to Lord Shiva.
The Mantra has a number of advantages. The regular and continuous chant
of this mantra for 1.25 lakh times brings pleasure and peace of mind. In
addition, it helps to minimize sins, if any. The use of rudraksha rosary (A
beaded garland of the seeds of Eleocarpus Ganitrus Tree) while chanting is
favourable.

6.Om Gana Ganapataye Namah -


Mantra for attainment of education and success in examination
This mantra is attribute to Lord Ganesha. It helps to acquire education and
good success in exam. It is specially useful for students. The regular chant of
this mantra will bring early results.

7.Goddess Mantra -
Aum sarva mangala maangalye
shive sarvartha saadhike
sharanye trayambake gauri
narayani namostute.

Oh Goddess Parvati, consort of Shiva, who bestows well being and


happiness into all, I surrender before you. O Gauri, wife of Tryabaka (Shiva)
and offer my salutations.

8.Maha mrityunjay mantra -

Aum trayambakam yajamahe


sugandim pusti vardhanam

48
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

urvaa rukam iva bandhanaat


mrytyor mukshiya maamrtaat.

Aum, we worship Lord Shiva (The Three eyes done) who is full of fragrance
and who nourishes all beings, may he liberate us from death, for the sake of
immortality, just as the ripe cucumber is severed from its bondage (of the
creator). This mantra is known as the Moksha Mantra of Lord Shiva. Maha
Mrityunjay Mantra evokes the Shiva within and removes the tear of death,
liberating us from the cycle of death and rebirth.

9. Mantra for health -

Aum sarve bhavantu.


Aum sarve bhavantu sukhinaha
sarve santu niraamayaaha
sarve bhadrani pashyantu
maa kaschit dukhkha bhaakbhavat.

May all attain happiness, May all be healthy, May all enjoy good fortune,
May none suffer misery and sorrow.

Yantra -

Specific geometric parts having powerful vibrations are called as Yantras.


Sri Yantra, which is most complex and most harmonizing is worshipped and
kept with the patient.

Mani Chikitsa or Gem Therapy -

Benefits- Gemstone wearing is sacred, lucky, increases life span, gives


wealth, removes obstacles, soothes mind, increases Ojus. (Ch.Su.5/97)

1. Sun (Surya) -Ruby (Manik), Chant Gayatri Mantra, Sun Planet Mantra (
Japakusuma…)

49
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

2. Moon (Chandra) -Peral (Moti), Recitation of Lord Shiva stotra. (Ravan


stotra/12 jyotirlinga/ONS) etc, Chant Moon planet mantra (Dadhee
shankha…)

3. Mars (Mangal ) -Coral (Prawal), Chant Mars planet mantra (Dharani


garbha sambhutam…)

4. Mercury (Budha)-Emerald (Pachu), Chant Mercury planet mantra -

( Priyangu kalika…)

5. Jupiter (Guru) -Topaz (Pushkaraj), Chant Jupiter planet mantra


(Devennachya rishinancha..…)

6. Venus (Shukra) -Diamond (Heera), Chant Venus planet mantra (Hima


kunda mrinalabham..…)

7. Saturn (Shani)- Sapphire (Neelam), Chant Sapphire planet mantra


(Neelanjana sabhasam……)

8. Rahu –Zircon, Chant Rahu planet mantra (Ardhakayam mahaveeryam-)

9. Ketu -Cat’s eye, Chant Ketu planet mantra


(Palashapushpa…tarakagraha…)

Homa Chikitsa

Rituals are helpful to bring body and senses into healing process. They serve
to provide positive impressions to nourish and heal the mind. In homa-
which is also called as agnihotra- ritual psychological all negative
impressions are burnt in fire. For this ritual fragrant sandalwood, water, ghee
lamp, incense /dhoop and flower is offered for earth, water, fire, air and
ether elements.

50
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Yagnya is the sacrifice given to god and goddesses for their fulfillment and
the prayer offered to them.

Burning cow dung cakes also takes care of ghosts, especially if the dried
chilies are thrown in the fire. Several substances which cause holy smoke are
used in Yagyas as offering ("Aahuti") to fire. Most well known substance is
Indian cow ghee, which is believed to create active oxygen when burnt in
fire. That is why; cow ghee is used in lamps during worship in all Indian
temples.

Colors
White- brings mental peace and purity. Blue creates feelings of peace and
detachment. Gold develops discrimination. Green promotes harmony,
balance and healing.

Aroma
Incense, oils, etc. of sandalwood, camphor and cedar, cleanse psychic
environment, Myrrh and frankincense remove negative thinking and purify
the air. Rose and lotus calm and nourish the heart. Jasmine cleanses the
emotions and increases love and compassion. Gardenia purifies heart.
Helpful flowers to have around the house include aloe and basil.
Consuling

On top of these general psychological considerations, Ayurveda, particularly


in the West today, is largely a counseling based system of medicine. Much
of its work consists of educating the patient how to change their life-style to
prevent disease from arising and to optimize their health, as well as to treat
specific diseases. While this may center outwardly on dietary, herbal and
exercise recommendations, it requires an understanding of the psychology of
people. Otherwise we will not have the proper rapport with the patient to
ensure right communication and compliance with treatment
recommendations.

The procedure to explain the Vata person to calm his anxiety about such
changes will be different than the Kapha person or a Pitta person. Their
psychology will greatly color how such recommendations are made and
whether they will work, or not. It is not enough in Ayurveda that we as
practitioners can arrive at a correct diagnosis and treatment plan; we must

51
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

have the counseling skills to enable patients to effectively implement these.


When Ayurvedic treatment fails, it is usually owing to the inability of the
practitioner to understand the psychology of the patient well enough to get
them to stick with their Ayurvedic recommendations.

References -

1.“Bhootvidya naama dev asur gandharva yaksha raksha pitru pishacha


naag grahadi upasrushta chetasaam shantikarma baliharanadi
grahopashamanartham” (Su.Su.1)

2.Heetaheetam Sukham dukkham..….”

3. Sharirendriya sattvatma……

4. “Samadosha samagnischa samadhatu malakriyah

Prasannatma Indriya Manah Swastha ityabheedhitiyate”

5.“Sukhadiupalabdhi sadhanam manah”

6.

7.“Rajastamasya manasaschya doshow | Tayorveekaraha: kama krodha


lobha moha irsha maan dam shoka chittodvega bhaya harshadayaha||
(Cha.Vi.6/5)

8. “Lakshanam manaso dnyanasyaabhavo bhav eva cha..” (Cha.Sha. 1)

9. Yattad agre visham eva parinaame amrutam, Tat sukham saatvikam


proktam atmabuddhiprasadajam.

52
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

10. Visheyandriya sanyogad yatt tat agre amrutopmam, Pariname vishan eva
tat sukham rajas am smrutam.
11. Yat agre cha anubandhe cha sukham mohanam atmanaha, adhishthaya
manaschayam vishayan upasevate.

12. Cheentyam veecharya uhyancha dhyeya sankalpa eva cha..

13. “Dhee dhruti smruti vibhrashta karma yat kurute ashubham


PRAJYAPARADHAM tam vidyat sarvadoshaprakopanam”

14. Manasastu krodhashoka……” (Su.Su.1/6)

15. “Pitta pangu kapha pangu…”

16. “Neeyanta Praneta cha manasa..” Charak.

17. ”Kamashokbhayat vayu, krodhat pittam trayo malaha” “Harshachha


kaphaha”

18. Sattvavajayam punaha aheetyebhyo arthebhyo mano neegraha ||


C.S.11/54

19. “Manaso Dnyana vidnyan Dhairya smruti samadeebhi” - Charak.

Mantra aushadhi mani mangala bali upahara homa niyama prayaschitta


upavasa swastyayana praneepat gamanadee” – sushrut

“Dhee dhairyatmadee vidyanam manodoshoushadham param” – Vagbhat

53
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Chapter 2
Stress – Taan

Stress is a biological term which refers to the consequences of the failure of


a human or animal to respond appropriately to emotional or physical threats
to the organism, whether actual or imagined.

Stress is an inevitable companion of life.


Most people mix up today’s activity with remorse of yesterday as well as
Worries and thoughts of tomorrow. Further they relate every experience of
life to their own profit or loss.

Etiology -

The person having less sattva easily get affected.


• Frequent intake of unwholesome/contradictory/stale food
• Person who have weak body
• Recurrent lust, anger, fear, anxiety, delusion, grief, stress etc.
• Doshic imbalances, either by constitution or by external factors.
• Excess of rajas and tamas doshas.
• Ama can also leads to Stress.
• While explaining Aamapradoshaja Vyadhis, - diseases due to ama -
Charaka says when a person takes food with mind afflicted with
passion, anger, greed, confusion, envy, bashfulness, grief, anxiety, and
fear will lead to indigestion. (Ch.Vi.2/8-9) Apart from the type, and
quantity of food etc, mental afflictions play a very important role in
causing Ama.
• Vagbhata also clarifies that any wholesome food consumed by person
who is worried and under stress (Upatapta Manas) leads to Ama.

Stress is always an essential cause for immunity depletion (Su.U.41/21).


Ojas is depleted due to anger, fear etc.

A person with Ojakshyavastha exhibits psychological manifestations like


phobia (Bhibheti), over worrying (Dhyayati), mental aversion (Durmana)
and lack of sensorial intactness (Vyathitendriya).

54
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Pathogenesis -

Due to various causative factors, person cannot perform his daily work, and
if he does, it leads to fatigue, and other symptoms, resulting in various stress
disorders.

Symptoms -

Fatigue, Pale / blackish face, unstable mind, difficulty in decision making,


nervousness, fearfulness, angry outbursts.
Mental depression is the top aggravator of any disease. (Vishaado
rogavardhananam)
Disgust is the top as an antivirilistic. (Dourmanasyam avrishyaanam)
Grief is the top cause of emaciation. ( Shoka soshananam )

Effect of stress on muscular system-


Prolonged levels of stress results in tense muscles that are contracted much
of the time complete a feedback loop and further stimulate the mind,
resulting in heightened stress. Muscle spasm leads to pain and it aggravate
spasm. This is a vicious cycle.

Effect of stress on G.I.T system-


Stress induces spastic contractions of the muscles of the esophagus,
disrupting rhythmic peristalsis and making swallowing difficult and in some
situations impossible.
Hyperacidity, ulcers are common.

In Ayurveda diseases like indigestion (Ajeerna), sprue syndrome (Grahani),


diarrhea (Atisaara) etc has strong psychological causation. Diarrhea due to
fear and grief are immediate manifestation of stress. Madhava Nidana
clearly defines that diarrhea due to fear leads to IBS or inflammatory bowel
disorders.

Effect on cardiovascular system-


One of the commonest effects of the current life style in the cardiac system
is Hypertension. Stress leads to Cardiac disorders.

55
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Stress and Dosha vitiation

1. Excessive Chinta / worry, Bhaya / fear, Shoka / grief causes vitiation of


Vata
2. Krodha / anger cause vitiation of Pitta.
3. Alasya / idleness cause vitiation of Kapha.

Treatment

1. Psychological treatments -
The best treatment for all psychological diseases is to increase the
intelligence, courage and self knowledge. (Dhee dhairyatmadi veednyanm
manodoshaushadham param)

1) Dhee – comprehension /Intellect boosting


2) Dhairya – Confidence building
3) Atmagyan – Knowledge of self

1. In Vata vitiated stress -


Aashvaasana (consolation)
Harshana (creating joy)
Vismaapana (making to recollect)
Vismaarana (making to forget)

2. In Pitta vitiated stress -


Physically and mentally soft and pleasant things and hearing prosperity
things of others.

3. In Kapha vitiated stress -


Sukha Pratishedha i.e., regimens opposite to comfort should be adopted.

2. Purification or Panchkarma -

Pre- Procedures - Purpose - loosening impurities that have become


embedded in tissues and helping to liquefy them for easy absorption into the
circulation and eventual elimination.

56
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Dilating the channels of circulation and elimination. Cleansing of channels


so that proper nourishment can reach the tissues and impurities can be more
easily eliminated from it.

Vamana/ Medicated Emesis:


Indicated especially in Kapha type.
With proper pre karma procedures of snehana and swedana, Vamana is
given with Liquorice decoction.
Home made Ghee snehana is used for snehana.

Virechana/ Medicated purgation:


Indicated especially in Pitta type.
With proper pre karma procedures of snehana and swedana, Virechana is
given with Aragwadh (Cassia fistula) or Triphala decoction.
“Dadimadi Ghritam” is used for snehana.

Basti:
As manas disorders are closely related to “Vata” dosha, this specific
Panchakarma procedure is very important. Especially useful in Vata type.
In these patients, first snehena is given and then Niruha/decoction basti is
given.It is followed by alternate anuvasan/oil basti and niruha/decoction
basti. Sesame oil and Dashamoola decoction are used for these basti.

Nasya:
With proper pre procedures, nasya is recommended with ksheerbala oil, anu
oil etc.

Shirodhara
This procedure is one of the best treatment for Stress. It gives instant relief
in stress.
Oil is poured on forehead at Sthapani Marma or third eye has direct effect on
Ajnya chakra and thus it helps to calm down aggressiveness, thus balances
doshas.
Music as per dosha vitiation during this process is especially played.
Oil such as Brahmi oil or buttermilk (Takradhara) is used for shirodhara.

3) Pacification

Diet -

57
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

• Vegeterian food
• Whole grains, seeds, nuts.
• Raw foods as salads, green leafy vegetables.
• Organic fresh fruits
• Saatvic diet
• Light and madhur rasa (sweet taste) diet is recommended.
• Green gram in the form of kichari is especially useful.

Oil Massage -Abhyanga

Herbalized oil massage is used to pacify vata and reduce muscle spasms and
strain. Sesame oil, coconut oil and mustard oil are best base oils for Vata,
Pitta and Kapha type respectively.

Herbs -

Gotu kola / Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi),


Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Basil (Ocimum basilicum), Valerian
(Valeriana wallichi), Manduka parni (Centella asiatica), Shankha pushpi.

Mantra chanting -

Chanting of OM. Chanting “Bhaj Govindam”. Chanting ‘Maha-mrutyunjay


mantra’

Meditation –Daily practice of meditation for atleast 15 minutes relieves


stress.

Yantra - Sri Yantra, which is most complex and most harmonizing is


worshipped and kept with the patient.

Asana

Balasana / Child's Pose - Kneel on your shins, buttocks resting on your


heels, knees together. With your arms at your sides, palms up, bend from the
hips and extend your upper body over your knees. Resting on your thighs,

58
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

bring your forehead to the floor. Breathe deeply, hold for as long as is
comfortable. Then slowly sit up.

Shavasana- Dead pody posture every evening before going to bed is useful.

Pranayama -

• Seetkari
• Sheetali
• Paramshanti pranayama

59
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Chapter 3
Schizophrenia

Modern Perspective

Introduction

Schizophrenia is a group of serious brain disorders in which reality is


interpreted abnormally. Schizophrenia results in hallucinations, delusions,
and disordered thinking and behavior.

Signs and symptoms


There are several types of schizophrenia, so signs and symptoms vary. In
general, schizophrenia symptoms include -Beliefs not based on reality
(delusions), such as the belief that there's a conspiracy against you. Seeing or
hearing things that don't exist (hallucinations), especially voices. Incoherent
speech. Neglect of personal hygiene. Lack of proper emotions or emotions
inappropriate to the situation. Angry outbursts. Catatonic behavior. A
persistent feeling of being watched. Trouble functioning at school and work,
Social isolation. Clumsy, uncoordinated movements,

Negative signs and symptoms -


Negative signs and symptoms represent a loss or decrease in emotions or
behavioral abilities. They may include -Loss of interest in everyday
activities. Appearing to lack emotion. Reduced ability to plan or carry out
activities. Neglecting hygiene. Social withdrawal. Loss of motivation

Positive signs and symptoms -


Positive signs and symptoms are unusual thoughts and perceptions that often
involve a loss of contact with reality. These symptoms may come and go.
They may include -Hallucinations, or sensing things that aren't real. In
schizophrenia, hearing voices is a common hallucination. These voices may
seem to give you instructions on how to act, and they sometimes may
include harming others.
Delusions, or beliefs that have no basis in reality. For example, the patient
may believe that the television is directing his behavior or that outside forces
are controlling his thoughts.

60
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Thought disorders, or difficulty speaking and organizing thoughts, such as


stopping in midsentence or jumbling together meaningless words, sometimes
known as "word salad."
Movement disorders, such as repeating movements, clumsiness or
involuntary movements.

Cognitive signs and symptoms -


Cognitive symptoms involve problems with memory and attention. These
symptoms may be the most disabling in schizophrenia because they interfere
with the ability to perform routine daily tasks. They include -Problems
making sense of information. Difficulty paying attention. Memory problems

Medications -
Conventional, or typical, antipsychotics. These medications have
traditionally been very effective in managing the positive symptoms of
schizophrenia. These medications have frequent and potentially severe
neurological side effects, including the possibility of tardive dyskinesia, or
involuntary jerking movements. This group of medications includes -
Haloperidol (Haldol), Thioridazine, Fluphenazine

New generation, also called atypical antipsychotics. These newer


antipsychotic medications are effective at managing both positive and
negative symptoms. They include -Clozapine (Clozaril), Risperidone
(Risperdal), Olanzapine (Zyprexa), Quetiapine (Seroquel), Ziprasidone
(Geodon), Aripiprazole (Abilify), Paliperidone (Invega).

All antipsychotic medications have side effects and possible health risks.
Certain antipsychotic medications, for instance, may increase the risk of
diabetes, weight gain, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Clozaril can
cause dangerous changes in your white blood cell count. Certain
antipsychotic medications can cause serious health problems in some older
adults and should be avoided.

Ayurvedic Perceptive - Unmad

In Ayurveda, the description of Manasroga (Mental disorders) is described


in various scripts, of which the one named “Unmaad” resembles like
“Schizhophrenia”. Various other references in ayurveda are explained, but as
a complete disease, the reference of Unmaad is useful for study in detail.
Most physicians treat this disease according to the presentation of

61
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

symptoms. Western Ayurveda, with its yogic and naturalistic background, as


well as its application in the western context of psychological unhappiness,
has a greater interest and need for this psychological aspect of Ayurveda. A
revival of Ayurvedic psychological is an important consideration, if not
prime trend, for the new global Ayurveda.

Etiology
The coward person having less sattva easily gets affected. Frequent intake of
unwholesome/contradictory/stale food, The food not consumed by normal
eating practices, Incorrect Tantra practice, Person who have weak body,
Recurrent lust, anger, fear, anxiety, delusion, grief, stress etc. Insult of
deities, guru, parents and holy persons. Abnormal body movements. Doshic
imbalances, either by constitution or by external factors. Excess of rajas and
tamas doshas. Karma (the results of acts done by the individual in previous
and present life)

Pathogenesis
Vitiated doshas of less sattva person enters in Manovaha srotasa affects
Manas (mind) creating disturbances in its functions (Viz. comprehension
(Dhi), memory (Dhriti) and recollection (Smriti)), intellect, knowledge,
character, behaviour, body movements etc.). It overlaps proper functions of
mind.

Symptoms- Abnormal behavior, unstable mind, difficulty in decision


making, nervousness, irrelevant speech, fearfulness, delusions (beliefs not
based on reality), hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that don't exist),
neglect of personal hygiene, lack of emotions, emotions inappropriate to the
situation, angry outbursts, absent mind ness, clumsy, uncoordinated
movements and improper understanding of reality.

Types
Vata type
Pitta type
Kapha type
All three doshas collectively vitiates to form Sannipatik
Agantu unmaad is also described, which occurs due to external factors like
deities, demons, planets etc.

Vata type

62
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Because of vata vitiating diet, climate and activities vata vitiates which
results in Vata type Unmaad.
In this type patient cries, laughs, dances, without any reason. Abnormal
movements of eyes, eyebrows, lips, shoulders, chin, hand, legs, etc.,
irreleveant speech. Acts as if he is playing flute, playing tabla etc. without
any music instrument. Spit comes out from his mouth. Wanders here and
there and speaks irrevelantly.Acts as if he is driving a vehicle. Whatever
food he eats, insults that food.

Pitta type
Because of Pitta vitiating diet, climate and activities Pitta vitiates which
results in Pitta type Unmaad. Patient of this type easily gets angry. He beats
himself or any other person with anything in his hand. Always seek for cold
food. His eyes are yellowish or reddish and looks angry. He wanders without
any cloths on his body.

Kapha type
Because of Kapha vitiating diet, climate and activities Kapha vitiates which
results in Kapha type Unmaad. Patient of this type has anorexia, vomiting,
saliva coming out from mouth, nose etc. He has very unclean hygiene, has
edema on face. He sits in oe place only. eyes are whitish.

Tridosha type

When all three doshas are vitiated, they attacks manovaha srotas and
tridosha type unmaad occurs. In this symptoms of all three doshas seen.
It is very dangerous and is incurable.

Agantu /Bhutaja type


Negative actions or karma arises mainly from wrong judgment
(Prajnaparadha or misuse of intellect), which includes the wrong use of the
senses, prana, emotions and mind. It represents the effect of long term
doshic and gunic distortions as they become lodged in the psyche. Such
wrong judgment begins with rajas, as it involves a factor of willfulness. Yet
it also reflects tamas over time as it indicates tendencies the person is unable
to see, recognize or change.
The person who insults god, sages, ancestors, gandharva, yaksha, ghosts,
guru, olders, acharyas and behave abnormally then these forces enters in this
person which results in Bhutaj Unmaad.

63
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

In this type various supernatural symptoms are seen and during attack period
a person has tremendous/abnormal power, energy, memory, perception,
strength, knowledge etc.

These forces enters in the body of affected person when he is alone or in the
evening, or no moon/full moon night, during intercourse, during rituals,
during war, in the night, etc/ time. They enter in the body as the image
reflects in mirror or the sun ray enters in prism.
When they enter for violence, the person jumps in the fire or in the water or
in deep burrow, hurts himself with weapon, stick etc. acts which are life
threatening. This type is incurable.
Other two (intercourse or ritual) are treated with mantra, gems, mangal,
sacrifice, ritual, fasting etc.

Deities or demons neither attack nor intend to attack any person, but it is
their karma to enter in such impure persons. So the person himself is
responsible for that and not other forces. So only the person himself is
responsible for his state.

Treatment

We cannot treat the mind without treating prana, which requires yogic
practices of pranayama and pratyahara. And we cannot treat prana without
considering the doshas of Vata, Pitta and Kapha, which are mainly pranic
doshas or pranic imbalances.
This means correcting the diet, adding helpful herbs and other Ayurvedic
massage and cleansing methods like Pancha Karma are mandatory.

Treatment during attack -Vegavastha

In Active Phase of Unmaada following line of treatment is followed –


Patients who are excited or agitated and when the symptoms are aggravated.

1. Trasanam chikitsa/ "counter-irritant" treatment

Strong nasya (nasal medication) of Vacha (Acorus calamus) in the powder


or oil form, Shigru (Moringa oleifera) seed powder, Marich (Piper nigrum),
Tagar (Valeriana wallichii), Yashtimadhu (Glycerrhiza glabra), Hingu
(Ferula narthex)

64
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Shunthi (Zinziber officinale) + Jaggery are some of the medicines used ,


usually combined with "Puran Ghruta“/10-100 year old ghee.
Strong pinching of his cuticle parts of body.
Application of hot iron rod on skin
Beating with bamboo stick
Tie him with rope in isolated place
Show him fear of his life eg. Biting of a snake whose teeth are removed or
attack of lion whose nails and teeth are removed.
Make such things that he will be extremely happy
These procedures are applied to make quick release from deep seated
masking of tamas and rajas doshas on mind.
In absence of active phase, following line of treatment is followed –

Rational Therapy –

This is done by two methods -Shodhana / Purification and Shamana/


Pacification.

1. Shodhana or Panchkarma

Vamana/ Medicated Emesis:


Indicated especially in Kapha and Pitta type.
With proper pre karma procedures of snehana and swedana, Vamana is
given with Liquorice decoction.
Purana Ghritam”/10-100 year old ghee snehana gives best results.

Virechana/ Medicated purgation:


Indicated especially in Kapha and Pitta type.
With proper pre karma procedures of snehana and swedana, Virechana is
given with Aragwadh (Cassia fistula) or Triphala decoction.
“Purana Ghritam”/10-100 year old ghee snehana gives best results.

Basti:
As manas disorders are closely related to “Vata” dosha, this specific
Panchakarma procedure is very important. Especially useful in Vata type.
In these patients, first snehena is given and then Niruha/decoction basti is
given. It is followed by alternate anuvasan/oil basti and niruha/decoction
basti. Sesame oil and Dashamoola decoction are used for these basti.

65
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Nasya:
This panchakarma procedure is one of the best treatments for Unmaad, both
in acute and chronic phase. Because of it approximation with manas and
buddhi, it gives instant relief in both stages of disease.

With proper pre karma procedures, strong nasya is recommended with


Vacha (Acorus calamus) in the powder or oil form, Marich/black pepper etc.

After shodhana/purification process, it is advised to go for snehana again (in


small quantity), as vata pacification is of prime importance and it should be
pacified immediately.

Shirodhara
It is special treatment for all manas rogas.
In schizophrenia, the oil poured on third eye give has direct impact on Ajnya
chakra and thus it helps to calm down aggressiveness, thus balances doshas.
Music as per dosha vitiation during this process is especially played.
Shiva stotra played during shirodhara gives additional benefits.
Oil such as Brahmi oil or buttermilk (Takradhara) is used for shirodhara.

2. Shamana or Pacification

Diet
Foods create moods. It also helps to restore harmony and balance of mind.
Vegeterian food having whole grains, seeds, nuts and raw foods as salads,
green leafy vegetables should be consumed.
Organic fresh fruits should be taken.
Foods that infuse your body with bliss have a high level of prana (life force)
which includes fresh, organic fruits and vegetables such as summer
squashes, fresh milk products such as butter milk, and whole grains such as
rice, quinoa, amaranth, and barley.
Some high-mood foods to favor are soaked walnuts and almonds, sunflower
and pumpkin seeds, Rose Petal Jam (gulkand) and Almond Butter.
The more fresh and digestible the foods, the more they create ojas, the
biochemical equivalent to bliss and happiness and helps to open manas
channnels (manovaha srotas).
Light and sweet taste diet is recommended.
Green gram in the form of kichari is especially useful.

Ghee

66
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Ghee is an important food product to be used in these patients.


Older the ghee, better the results.
It has special power to reach up to minute srotasas and clean and sooth the
channel and each tissue. 10 year old ghee is termed as “purnana ghee” and
100 year old ghee is termed as “prapurana ghee”.
Characteristics of Purana (old) Ghee -Strong odor, appears like dark gum
(laksha), pungent and bitter in taste, cool in properties and medhya (Best
intellect booster).
Characteristics of Prapurana (very old) Ghee -It can combat and cure any
disease. It is also good for removing bad planetary influence.

Decoction / Tea

Vata type -1/2 tsf whole cumin seeds, 1/2 tsf whole coriander seeds, 1/2 tsf
fennel seeds, 3 pinches of ashwagandha root powder, 1 pinch whole-root
licorice powder. Boil two quarts of water. Add spices and cover to steep.
Drinking beverages at a warm temperature is best for Vata types.

Pitta Type -2 pinches of Indian Sarsaparilla powder, 1/4 tsf Cumin seeds, 2
pinches of licorice powder, 1/2 tsf Fennel seeds, 1/2 tsf Coriander seeds
Same procedure as above; only let the water cool to room temperature
before drinking.

Kapha Type -2 thin slices of fresh ginger root, 2 basil leaves, 2 whole
cloves, 1/2 tsf whole cumin seeds, 2 pieces licorice powder. Same procedure
as above; only sips the water hot, during and after meals.

Do’s and Don’ts


Foods that produce irritability and fatigue. E.g. packaged, frozen and canned
foods; leftovers; fermented foods such as alcohol; and sour foods such as
vinegar, which is found in ketchup, mustard and pickles, should be avoided.
Junk food and dead foods clog the channels hence it should also be avoided.
Contradictory foods - When these types of food are consumed regularly,
they create ama-impurities in the body because the combination makes them
difficult to digest and is the prime cause of mental disorders.

Avoid combining these foods -Ghee and honey in equal proportions


Milk with salty, sour, astringent, pungent or bitter tastes (in other words,
milk only combines well with sweet foods such as cereals, cookies and small

67
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

amounts of honey or raw sugar), Yogurt with milk, sour fruits, melons, fish,
starches, cheese, or bananas
Melons with any other foods, but especially grains, starches, grilled foods or
cheese, The nightshade family (which consists of tomatoes, potatoes,
eggplant and sweet peppers) with yogurt, milk, melons or cucumbers.

Cooking

There is a concept in ayurveda, called swaduhita, which means "tasty and


healthy”. The idea is that food should be tasty, yes, but not at the expense of
being healthy. Today much of the food prepared with modern methods is
swaduahita-tasty-but not very healthy.
Many restaurants, on the other hand, include a lot of deep-fried foods. These
are not ayurvedic, because the food is heated at such high temperatures that
it is burned, and cannot be digested. Deep-fried foods generally create ama
and increase tamas dosha.
The ideal ayurvedic method is to cook food slowly at low temperatures. The
recommended ayurvedic cooking medium is water. For instance, when you
make split-mung dhal, you first fill the pan with water and add the dhal,
turmeric and salt. Then separately you sauté the other spices in a small
amount of ghee until the aroma is released, and add that to the dhal when it
is almost cooked. The ghee and spices are a very important component,
because they enhance taste and infuse aromatherapeutic value. When you
sauté spices in ghee or olive oil at a low heat until the aroma is released, that
is called "sanskar" in ayurveda-it's the traditional method of preparation that
enhances the therapeutic value of the foods being prepared.
It is recommended to chant “Annapurna stotram” while cooking food and
before start to dine.

Abhyanga –Oil Massage


Herbalized oil massage is used treatments to aid the cleansing process and
pacifying vata as well.Sesame oil, coconutoil and mustard oils are best base
oils for vata, pitta and kapha type respectively.

Kundalini Massage
Special type of massage with Medhya (intellect boosting) herbal oil is given
to merudand (spinal cord). This gives best results in Active phase of
schizophrenia also.

Herbs -As described in common treatment of psychological disorders.

68
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Formulations -

For Vata Type -Brahmiprasha, Sarpagandha powder, Sameerpannag rasa,


Vatavidhvansa rasa

For Pitta Type- Sutshekhar, Sarpagandha, Brahmi juice.

For Kapha Type -Unmaadgajakesari, Bhootbhairav rasa

Medicated ghee -Kalyanak Ghruta, Panchagavya Ghruta, Brahmi Ghruta,


Jatamansi Ghruta.

Regimen for Vata Type -

Sitting or walking peacefully by ocean, garden, Calming music, Gentle and


warm massage, using calming and cool colors like green. Taking rich,
nourishing sweet, sour and salty food. Using fragrances like jasmine, rose.
Gentle Yoga postures, support of good friends and family and chanting of
anti vata mantras like “HARE RAM” is beneficial. Meditation on Lord
Rama/Krishna should be done regularly.

Regimen for Pitta Type -

Walking at night on green grass in the moonlight, hearing soft music,


massage with coconut oil and using cool colors like white and blue is
beneficial. Consuming food of sweet, bitter, astringent taste, moderate
exercise like walking, swimming, cultivating friendship and forgiveness is
also useful. Anti Pitta mantras like “Sarva Mangal Mangalye”/ Om Namah
Shivayah” chanting. Meditation on lord Shiva /Goddess Lakshmi is
indicated.

Regimen for Kapha Type -

Vigorous walking in dry desserts, high mountains. Strong and stimulating


music. Strong, deep massage with dry powders. Use of bright and

69
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

stimulating colors like yellow, red. Light diet with pungent, bitter, astringent
tastes. Penetrating fragrances like musk, camphor. Strong aerobic exercises.
Social service to others. Anti Kapha mantras like “Krim”, “Hum”.
Meditation on mother Kali / Rudra.

Ayurvedic psychotherapy -As described in common manas disorders.

Spiritual therapy -

Mantra -Chanting of OM. Reading regularly Hanuman Chalisa is the


strongest mantra which gives strength to the mind and takes care of fears etc.
The worship of Lord Hanuman is very useful when illness is caused by
Grahaj type. Grahas are considered the satellite of Saturn and hence
Hanuman Chalisa helps overcome malefic effects of these Planets. In
addition, Saturn is the disciple of Lord Siva. Hence chanting Rudra mantra:
"Om Namo Bhagvate Rudray" daily also becomes beneficial for the person
suffering from manas diseases. Maha-mrutyunjay mantra is also equally
useful.

Tantra

Fasting on Saturday. Offering black masha (black gram), sesame oil etc. to
Shani/Saturn and putting horse-shoe shaped iron piece on door frame.

Rituals

"Kala Bhairava" that is performed to please Lord Shiva who in turn


supposedly gives you benediction of mental peace. The concept here is that
certain Sanskrit verses ("mantras") when pronounced correctly by qualified
pious persons ("Brahmanas") have the effect of pleasing the Gods and
receiving their benediction.

70
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Burning cow dung cakes also takes care of ghosts, especially if the dried
chilies are thrown in the fire. Several substances which cause holy smoke are
used in Yagyas as offering ("Aahuti") to fire. Most well known substance is
Indian cow ghee, which is believed to create active oxygen when burnt in
fire. That is why, cow ghee is used in lamps during worship in all Indian
temples.

Yantra

Sri Yantra, which is most complex and most harmonizing is worshipped and
kept with the patient.

Anjana

Herbs such as Shirish (Albezzia lebekk), Liquorice, asafetida, garlic,


calamus, valerian, kushtha are mixed together in equal amount of goat urine.
It Anjana and Nasya should be done.

Pranayama -

Negative impressions are eliminated, vitiated kapha and tamas dosha is


cleared with help of shuddhi/cleansing pranayama as –Nadishuddhi
Pranayama, Kapalabhati, Bhasrika. For aggressive stages of Unmaada,
cooling pranayama such as Seetkari, Sheetali, paramshanti pranayama is
recommended.

Counselling /Ashvasana chikitsa

Prevention -Ayurveda therapy aims at not only removing the doshas and
increasing sattva guna but also eliminating the negative karmas and karmic
patterns (samskaras) which sustain them in their own behavior.

Prognosis

71
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

There is currently no perfect cure for Schizophrenia, but many patients can
be successfully managed with medications and professional counseling.
Consistent, long-term treatment is critical to the successful management of
Schizophrenia. Many patients discontinue medicines because of unpleasant
or intolerable side-effects of modern medicines. Ayurvedic herbal
medicines score positively on this aspect, since they can be used long-term
without any serious side-effects. Several herbal combinations are now
available which can be used independently in patients with mild to moderate
symptoms. For Schizophrenic patients with severe symptoms, the Ayurvedic
medicines can be added to a modern medicine as adjuvant therapy, so that
the therapeutic effect is optimized, without increasing the side-effect load.

Rehabilitation of patients is an important aspect of treatment. Patients need


to be kept busy, in accordance with their capacity and ability for work. The
regular supervision of a care taker, both at home and at the work-place, helps
a lot.

72
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Chapter 4

Anxiety Disorders

Modern Perspective

The anxiety disorders are as follows-


Panic disorder,
Obsessive-compulsive disorder,
Post-traumatic stress disorder,
Social phobia (or social anxiety disorder),
Specific phobias, and
Generalized anxiety disorder.

Each anxiety disorder has its own distinct features, but they are all bound
together by the common theme of excessive, irrational fear.

Panic Disorder
People with panic disorder have feelings of terror that strike suddenly and
repeatedly with no warning. They can't predict when an attack will occur,
and many develop intense anxiety between episodes, worrying when and
where the next one will strike.
If person is having a panic attack, most likely your heart will pound and you
may feel sweaty, weak, faint, or dizzy. Your hands may tingle or feel numb,
and you might feel flushed or chilled. You may have nausea, chest pain or
smothering sensations, a sense of unreality, or fear of impending doom or
loss of control. You may genuinely believe you're having a heart attack or
losing your mind, or on the verge of death.
Panic attacks can occur at any time, even during sleep. An attack generally
peaks within 10 minutes, but some symptoms may last much longer.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Obsessive-compulsive disorder, or OCD, involves anxious thoughts or
rituals one feel he/she can't control. If one have OCD, he/she may be
plagued by persistent, unwelcome thoughts or images, or by the urgent need
to engage in certain rituals.

73
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

The person may be obsessed with germs or dirt, so he washes his hands over
and over. He may be filled with doubt and feel the need to check things
repeatedly. He may have frequent thoughts of violence, and fear that he will
harm people close to him. He may spend long periods touching things or
counting; he may be pre-occupied by order or symmetry; he may have
persistent thoughts of performing sexual acts that are repugnant to him; or he
may be troubled by thoughts that are against his religious beliefs.
The disturbing thoughts or images are called obsessions, and the rituals that
are performed to try to prevent or get rid of them are called compulsions.
There is no pleasure in carrying out the rituals you are drawn to, only
temporary relief from the anxiety that grows when you don't perform them.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder


Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating condition that can
develop following a terrifying event. Often, people with PTSD have
persistent frightening thoughts and memories of their ordeal and feel
emotionally numb, especially with people they were once close to. PTSD
was first brought to public attention by war veterans, but it can result from
any number of traumatic incidents. These include violent attacks such as
mugging, rape, or torture; being kidnapped or held captive; child abuse;
serious accidents such as car or train wrecks; and natural disasters such as
floods or earthquakes. The event that triggers PTSD may be something that
threatened the person's life or the life of someone close to him or her. Or it
could be something witnessed, such as massive death and destruction after a
building is bombed or a plane crashes.

Social Phobia (Social Anxiety Disorder)


Social phobia, also called social anxiety disorder, involves overwhelming
anxiety and excessive self-consciousness in everyday social situations.
People with social phobia have a persistent, intense, and chronic fear of
being watched and judged by others and being embarrassed or humiliated by
their own actions. Their fear may be so severe that it interferes with work or
school, and other ordinary activities. While many people with social phobia
recognize that their fear of being around people may be excessive or
unreasonable, they are unable to overcome it. They often worry for days or
weeks in advance of a dreaded situation.

Specific Phobias
A specific phobia is an intense fear of something that poses little or no actual
danger. Some of the more common specific phobias are centered around

74
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

closed-in places, heights, escalators, tunnels, highway driving, water, flying,


dogs, and injuries involving blood.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder


Antidepressants -
A number of medications that were originally approved for treatment of
depression have been found to be effective for anxiety disorders. If your
doctor prescribes an antidepressant, you will need to take it for several
weeks before symptoms start to fade. So it is important not to get
discouraged and stop taking these medications before they've had a chance
to work.
Selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. These medications act in
the brain on a chemical messenger called serotonin.
Fluoxetine, sertraline, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, and citalopram are among
the SSRIs commonly prescribed for panic disorder, OCD, PTSD, and social
phobia. SSRIs are often used to treat people who have panic disorder in
combination with OCD, social phobia, or depression. Venlafaxine, a drug
closely related to the SSRIs, is useful for treating GAD.
Tricyclics have been around longer than SSRIs and have been more widely
studied for treating anxiety disorders. For anxiety disorders other than OCD,
they are as effective as the SSRIs, but many physicians and patients prefer
the newer drugs because the tricyclics sometimes cause dizziness,
drowsiness, dry mouth, and weight gain. When these problems persist or are
bothersome, a change in dosage or a switch in medications may be needed.
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors, or MAOIs, are the oldest class of
antidepressant medications. The most commonly prescribed MAOI is
phenelzine, which is helpful for people with panic disorder and social
phobia. Tranylcypromine and isoprocarboxazid are also used to treat anxiety
disorders.

Ayurvedic Perspective – Chinta, Utkantha

Anxiety is an unpleasant emotional state of uneasiness and distress, or


feeling of impending doom, although there is no obvious threat. It is
characterized by apprehension and worry. Some anxiety is normal; it
becomes a problem when it interferes with normal activities. According to
Ayurveda, anxiety is a classic sign of vata imbalance in the body. Prolonged

75
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

anxiety, stress, and tension affect the nervous system, and can cause many
further complications if left uncorrected.
Ayurveda attributes anxiety disorder symptoms to aggravated prana vata, a
subsidiary of vata dosha which is associated with worry, anxiety and
depression.

Prana Vata weakens the nervous system and triggers mental imbalance. It
also weakens the neuro-hormonal system and nerve impulses.

Etiology -

Vata aggravating factors such as –intake of excessive light, dry, cold food,
fasting and irregular eating, and suppression of natural urges, less sattva,
general weakness, malnutrition, negative thinking, fear and constant tension
are the main causes.

Pathogenesis –

Because of etiological factors vata gets aggravated and it affects manas


resulting in anxiety.

Etiology -

Vata aggrevating factors -

Excess or perverted thinking of various objects

Vitiation of Vata, Rajas

Anxiety

Symptoms -

76
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Various types of symptoms are noted like -Long term severe worry, tension,
irritability or depression, for no clear reason. Excessive or unwarranted
worry (usually overwork, finances, relationships, and health). Heart
palpitations (rapid or irregular heartbeats), sense of impending danger,
difficulty or Inability to concentrate or mind going blank. Muscle tension
especially in the neck, shoulders, and chest; muscle aches; trembling or
twitching in the muscles. Diarrhoea, Chest pain, Dry mouth, Hot flashes,
Excessive sweating, sweaty palms, Undereating or overeating, loss of
appetite, Insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep, nightmares),
Irritability, Fatigue, headache, Easily fatigued, Trembling or feeling shaky,
Rapid and shallow breathing, or feeling short of breath (hyperventilation),
Loss of sex drive, Being easily startled, Occasional panic attacks,
Restlessness, Inability to relax, Headaches, Feelings of tightness in chest
Emotional instability and Tendency to be cry without an obvious reason.

Treatment

Rational Therapy – Yuktivyapashraya

Purification -

If vitiation of Vata is because of blockage (margavarodha), then only


recommended Panchakarma is advised. Mild form of Panchakarma is
expected and not the aggressive one.

A) Veerechana/ Medicated purgation:

With proper pre procedures of snehana and swedana, Virechana is given


with Aragwadh (Cassia fistula) or Triphala decoction. “Purana Ghritam”/10-
100 year old ghee snehana gives best results.

B) Basti:

Alternate anuvasan/oil basti and niruha/decoction basti is indicated. Sesame


oil and Dashamoola decoction are used for these basti. Only sneha basti is
recommended if Vata vitiation symptoms are more e.g. dryness.

77
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

C) Nasya:

Because of its approximation with manas and buddhi, it gives best results in
anxiety. With proper pre karma procedures, nasya with Brahmi ghee, Cow
ghee, Ksheerabal oil is recommended.

D) Shirodhara

It is special treatment for anxiety. The oil poured on third eye give has direct
impact on Ajnya chakra and thus it helps to calm down aggressiveness, thus
balances doshas. Music as per dosha vitiation during this process is
especially played. Oil such as Brahmi oil or buttermilk (Takradhara) is used
for shirodhara.

F) Shirobasti

Medhya oil such as brahmi oil or Amalaki oil is poured in the cap put on
head of the patient. It is kept about 30-45 minutes on head. This procedure is
best for stabilization of mind and buddhi.

G) Abhyanga / Massage

A full-body oil massage helps to reduce anxiety. Oils like Chandan bala
lakshadi oil, Brahmi oil, Jatamansi oil are useful.

Pacification –

Useful Herbs

Herbs recommended for anxiety disorders are having soothing/calming


effect on the body. They pacify vitiated rajas and Vata and calms down the
mental agitation/instability.

1. Gotu kola / Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) -Brahmi helps to cope up with


reality and pacify rajas.

78
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

2. Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi) -Best to reduce stress. Being bhuthni


takes care of supernatural bad ailments. Being Parthiva (earth) in nature,
calms down anxiety.

3. Sarpagandha (Raulwofia serpentina) -Takes care of cardinal symptoms


as palpitation, restlessness etc. Pacifies Vitiated vata.

4. Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) -Strengthens all tissues mainlr the rasa


dhatu. As Rasavaha srotas is also vitiated because of anxiety (Chintyanancha
antichintanaat).

5. Basil -Enriches prana and reduces cellular exhaustion.

6. Sandalwood -Having cooling properties, it helps to calm down excess


rajas. Being earth/parthiva in nature helps to stabilize the mind.

Useful Formulations -

1. Brahmi ghrita -This is ghee made by combining four Medhya herbs with
cow ghee. By taking this 1 – 2 tsp daily morning & evening will strengthen
as well as relax the brain centres

2. Chyavanprash -Higher concentration of prana vata and nourishes


intellect.

3. Panchagavya Ghruta- Cow Ghee processed in cow milk, cow urine, cow
dung, cow yoghurt, cow butter.

Useful Minerals -

1. Suvarna bhasma -It is sweet, astringent, oily in nature and cool (Sheet)
inpotency. It is one of the best detoxifier and acts on smruti, Pragya of the
manas. Best cardiotonic (location of mind) and pitta, vata pacifier.

79
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

2.Roupya bhasma (Silver ash) - Best intellect booster and regulates function
of Sadhak pitta. Being best Vata and Pitta pacifier, calms down anxiety.

Diet -

Satvic, high prana and nutritious diet is most important. Sattvic food is
always freshly cooked and simple, juicy, It is light, unctuous, nourishing,
sweet and tasty. It increases the energy of the mind and produces
cheerfulness, serenity and mental clarity. sattvic food is highly conducive to
good health.
Milk, butter, ghee (clarified butter) fresh buttermilk, fresh ripe fruits as
pomegranate, apple, bnana, oranges, grapes etc., almonds, dates, moong
(green gram) sprouts, barley, wheat, cereals, fresh green vegetables like
spinach, green beans, tomatoes, parwar(bitter gourd), karela, plantains etc.,
are sattvic.The spices commonly used in sattvic cooking are turmeric,
ginger, cinnamon, coriander, fennel (saunf) and cardamom.

Yoga

Asanas giving more stability as –Vajrasan, Shavasana, Makarasana

Pranayama

Anuloma viloma pranayama, Bhramari pranayama, Sitkari pranayama.


Parama shanti pranayama

Meditation

Every day meditation should be sone for at least 30 minutes.

Medicated smoking

Incenses and dhoop which pacifies Vata as Rose, sandalwood etc.

80
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Mantra Chanting

Omkar chanting – Makar should be longer

Guru mantra:
“Gurur brahma…”

Om Aghorebhyo Thaghorebhyo Ghor Ghor Tarebhyah Sarvebhyah Sarva


Sarvebhyo Namaste Astu Rudra Rupebhyah

For controlling of fear of death etc., meditate on Lord Shiva and perform a
mala of chant everyday with burning of Dhoop.

Aum Namo Bhagwate Vasudevaya


This mantra of Lord Narayan is very powerful and advantageous. It gives
peace of mind. Moreover, in brings happiness.

Om Namah Shivaya
This mantra is considered as the five-lettered mantra related to Lord Shiva.
The Mantra has a number of advantages. The regular and continuous chant
of this mantra for 1.25 lakh times brings pleasure and peace of mind. In
addition, it helps to minimize sins, if any. The use of rudraksha mala (A
beaded garland of the seeds of Eleocarpus Ganitrus Tree) while chanting is
favourable.

Om Gana Ganapataye Namah


Mantra for attainment of education and success in examination
This mantra is attribute to Lord Ganesha. It helps to acquire education and
good success in exam. It is specially useful for students. The regular chant of
this mantra will bring early results.

Goddess Mantra -
Aum sarva mangala maangalye
shive sarvartha saadhike
sharanye trayambake gauri
narayani namostute.

Oh Goddess Parvati, consort of Shiva, who bestows well being and


happiness into all, I surrender before you. O Gauri, wife of Tryabaka (Shiva)
and offer my salutations.

81
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Mantra should be chanted in Vata pacifying way.

Yantra

Specific geometric parts having powerful vibrations are “Yantras”

Sri Yantra, which is most complex and most harmonizing is worshipped and
kept with the patient.

Mani Chikitsa – Gem Therapy

Emerald- Chant Mercury planet mantra ( Priyangu kalika…),

Diamond- Chant Venus planet mantra (Hima kunda mrinalabham..…)

Warm Bath

A warm bath in a tub with rose petals and aromas is helpful in pacifying
anxiety. Ayurveda imparts the snana is best for relaxation.

Agnihotra – Homa Chikitsa

Rituals are helpful to bring body and senses into healing process. They serve
to provide positive impressions to nourish and heal the mind. In Homa / fire
ritual psychological negativity is offered for purification. Fragrant
sandalwood, water, ghee lamp, incense/dhoop and flower is offered for
earth, water, fire, air and ether mahabhutas.

Colors

White- brings mental peace and purity.


Blue creates feelings of peace and detachment.
Green promotes harmony, balance and healing.
Person with anxiety should wear these shades cloths and walls of the
office/home should be painted in these shades.

Aroma Therapy

82
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Aromas like Sandalwood, Rose, Lotus calm and nourish the mind. Jasmine
is also helpful in anxiety as it increases love and compassion.

Music Therapy

Cooling and pacifying music is recommended.


Instruments played/listened are piano, santoor, flute, sataar etc.
Listen Indian classical ragas like -
Bhim palas
Kausi Kanada
Asavari
Bhairavi

Counselling –Ashvasana Chikitsa

Don’t procrastinate, hide, or run away. Believe that you have the power to
overcome your anxiety. Immediately, it may not feel good to face your fears
directly, but if you apply this strategy consistently, it always works.

Sattavavajaya chikitsa

Achara rasayana (satyavadinam akrodham…”) and Saddvrutta.

83
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Chapter 5
Depression -Vishada –Dainya

One of the most common health conditions in the world formally called
major depression, major depressive disorder or clinical depression. While
mood swings are a normal part of life, chronic depression is a serious
disorder that limits the quality of life and suppresses the immune systems.
Depression has been on a steady rise worldwide since the early twentieth
century. It is a by-product of industrialization, fast life of modern era. When
a person is too overcome with negative emotions, it becomes difficult to
focus on any other issue. The person may become lethargic and lose interest
in what is going on around them. Such a state may occur when a person fails
in an examination, loses a job, gets jilted by a lover, gets divorced, loses
some dear one, etc. Some people are able to get over their emotions quickly.
But in some others, depressions may last for several days, weeks or even
months.

Ayurveda mentions depression (Vishada) as “Best disease aggravating


factor” in Agryasangraha. So it can lead to any physical or psychological
disorder.

Etiology -

From Ayurvedic perspective, the main causes can be defined as-

1. Imbalance in tridosha (mostly Kapha imbalance)


2. Lack of Sattva (Intelligence)

Pathogenesis -

Because of specific etiological factors, vata, pitta or kapha enters in general


circulation and lodges in manovaha srotas, interferes with normal
functioning of the mind and nervous system, and causes depression.

84
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

In this scenario, all three doshas takes part in pathogenesis.

Out of trigunas, Tamas is predominant in depression.

Clinical features may vary according to the dominance of dosha vitiation. It


includes symptoms of single dosha vitiation or combination of two or all
three.

Vata Type

Causes –

Exposure to severe cold and darkness, severe winter weather, too much sex
or frequent masturbation, irregular working hours all these can cause Vata
type depression. Similarly all Vata aggravating factors also can cause
depression.

Symptoms -

Feelings of depression or low mood and energy, cold skin to the touch, poor
appetite, weight loss, indigestion, constipation, hypersensitivity, anxious
nature, sleeplessness, excessive talking about nothing and everything, fearful
and restless nature, frequent urination are the main symptoms.

Treatment -

Vata-pacifying diet e.g. eating foods that are tonifying to body and mind and
warm in nature should be consumed. Avoid salads, and caffeine. Favor
whole grains, vegetables cooked in oil and nuts. Add warmer and "heavier"
foods to the diet (such as soups, pasta, and rice with well-cooked
vegetables).
Maintain a regular daily routine with early bedtime. Daily abhyanga (oil
massage) with sesame oil should be done. Take warm baths or showers.
Mild exercise such as walking or yoga postures is advisable.
Meditation is very important to settle the person without threatening the
dynamism characteristic of Vata dosha.
Listen to relaxing music. Nasya of warm sesame oil (3 to 5 drops in each
nostril) in the morning and evening on an empty stomach is beneficial.
Champi or head massage with sesame oil is also useful.

85
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Use Vata-balancing herbs such as –Ginger, Gotu kola, Licorice, Nutmeg,


Sesame seeds, Valerian, Calamus, Jatamansi, Shankhapushpi and
Dashamoola.

Pitta Type

Causes

Frequently occurs in summer months, Bare headed work/walk in the


Sunlight, Eating hot foods (both with high temperature and spicy), Missing
meals, especially lunch and frequent experience of anger or irritation.

Symptoms –

Subjective feelings of depression, low energy or dark mood, Pitta pulse,


Pitta appearance and constitution: medium to strong build, often red or light
hair, fair complexion, freckles, hot feeling all over the body, sensitive to
heat, reddish skin, hot feel to the touch, desire to eat sweets, butter, ghee, or
creamy desserts, irritating nature, short tempered, hair failing out or turning
white, ulcers or feeling of heat in stomach and redness in eyes.
Treatment –

Follow Pitta-pacifying diet. Avoid hot and spicy foods, red meat, fish,
vinegar, cheese, alcohol, and tobacco. Prefer cool (not ice cold) drinks, a
vegetarian diet, dairy products (not yogurt), sweet fruit, most vegetables and
grains. Stay out of the sun; keep cool. Minimize hot baths or showers.
Moderate exercise such as swimming, cycling. Take largest meal at noon;
don't skip lunch. Panchakarma purification procedures like vamana and
virechana. Daily meditation, listening to relaxing music and daily coconut
oil massage should be done. Brahmi ghee nasya, 3 to 5 drops in each nostril,
twice a day on an empty stomach.Use Pitta-reducing herbs such as –Aloe,
coconut, coriander, pomegranate, sandalwood, shatavari (indian asparagus)
and guduchi.

86
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Kapha Type

Causes -

Tendency toward inactivity and lack of exercise, laziness, eating heavy diet,
not dressing properly for the cold weather, eating cold instead of warm
foods, increase of ama due to eating wrong foods, or to poor eating habits
such as not chewing food sufficiently, reading or watching TV while eating,
etc. and daytime sleep.

Symptoms -

Kapha pulse, feeling cold, tendency for overeating, tendency to occur in


winter or spring months, low energy, paleness of skin, overweight,
oversleeping and loss of ability to experience pleasure.

Treatment -

Follow Kapha-pacifying diet, especially spicy, hot foods, light soups. Favor
apples and pears, grains such as barley, buckwheat, millet, and corn. Honey
is the only sweetener good for Kapha. All spices (except salt) are good.
Minimize oils and fats, wheat and rice, cold food in general, sweets, nuts,
rich desserts, red meat, most dairy. Use heating herbs such as ginger, pepper,
turmeric. Drink ginger tea.

Get vigorous exercise such as jogging, bicycling, aerobics. Walk or exercise


in the sun, but don't get too much exposure on skin. Panchakarma
purification procedure. Daily practice of meditation.

Avoid daytime sleep. Take 1 teaspoon triphala with 1/2 cup warm water at
bedtime every night. Nasya of Brahmi oil into each nostril twice a day, and
rub the oil on the sides of your feet at bedtime.

Herbs such as -Brahmi (gotu kola)


Trikatu, Jatamansi (Nordostachys jatamansi), Licorice
Vacha (calamus), Punarnava
and Chitrak are useful.

87
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Though we see all three doshas involvement in depression, kapha


dominance is more in later stages. In first stages Vata and Pitta vitiation
is more which leads to eahaustion and kapha vitiation in later stages.
Hence the treatment depends on the symptoms and predominance of
vitiation of particular dosha. Overall treatment consists of Kapha
pacification as patient generally visit us in later stages and stimulant
herbs and therapies should be incorporated.

General line of Treatment –

Rational Therapy – They are of two types -Shodhana / Purification and


Shamana/ Pacification

1. Shodhana - Purification

Vamana/ Medicated Emesis -With proper pre procedures of snehana and


swedana, Vamana is given with Liquorice decoction. “Shatavari Ghritam”
snehana gives best results.

Virechana/ Medicated purgation: -Indicated especially in Kapha and Pitta


type. With proper pre karma procedures of snehana and swedana, Virechana
is given with Triphala decoction. “Tiktaka Ghritam” can be used for
snehana.

Basti -Sesame oil and Dashamoola decoction are used for these basti. The
decoction should be warm. If Kapha dominance is more, lekhana basti with
cow urine/ triphala decoction is recommended.

Nasya -With proper pre karma procedures, strong nasya is recommended


with Vacha (Acorus calamus) in the powder or oil form.

Abhyanga - Abhyanga with mustard oil or sesame oil. Rigourous massage


should be done. Udvartana /powder massage with triphala powder.

88
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy
Research:
American academy of child adolescent psychiatry 31:125-131, 1992.
30 minutes massage was given for 5 days to children and adolescent having
depression. The massage group were less depressed and anxious, than those
who viewed relaxing videotapes.
The study group also had lower levels of saliva cortisol and decreased levels
of urinary cortisol and norepinephrine.
Swedana(To clear channels and liquefy kapha)

Swedana – Fomentation -Swedana with nirgundi patra (leaves of vitex


negundo). Patrapottali swedana is also useful.

2. Shamana -Pacification

Herbs - Stimulant herbs are indicated to remove masking of Tamas on


buddhi. Like Calamus / Vacha (Acorus calamus), Basil (Ocimum
basilicum), Valerian (Valeriana wallichi), Guggul (Commiphora mukul),
Jyotishmati (Celastrus peniculatus)

Besides these contemporary herbs, the one which are recommended are
vajikarana herbs and compounds prepared from following herbs -
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Kapikachhu (Mucuna pruriens), Ginger
(Zingiber officinale), Nutmeg (Myristica Fragrans), Bala (sida cordifolia)

These herbs being hot in potency and stimulant, helps to pacify tamas dosha
and promotes intelligence.

Metals and minerals -

Abhrak bhasma (Mica ash) -Pacifies Vata and Kapha. Best tonic to Manas.
boosts immunity and mental strength.

Makardhvaja -Best formulation having stimulant effect and helps to boost


strength and pacifies tamas.

Formulations -

89
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

1. Saraswat churna - Equal combination of Brahmi, Shankhapushpi,


Vacha. Indications: Apasmaara, Bhutonmaada. Dose: 5 gm. Anupana: Milk,
Water.

2. Lashunadi Ghritam
(Ghee processed in Garlic, Trikatu, Hirda, cow milk etc.) It also can be used
for Nasya.

3. Kalyanaka Ghee -(Ghee processed in Shaliparni group of herbs)


Shaliparni, haridra, triphala, sariva Indrayan, talispatra etc. 28 herbs.
It clears all bad effect of planets. Indications: Apasmaara, Bhutonmaada,
balagraha, Vishavikara, Vandhyatva. Dose: 10gm. Anupana: Warm milk,
warm water.

4. Manasmitra Vataka -Bala, naagbala, bilva, shankhapushpi, prawal pishti


etc.72 herbs. Indications: Apasmaara, Unmaad, Manas dosha,
buddhimandyatva. Dose: 1-2 tabs bd/tds. Anupana: Milk

5. Vasantkusumakar rasa -Best tonic and gives strength to all tissues and
mans.

6. Saraswatarishta -Medicated wine made up of Gotu kola, asparagus,


haritaki, ginger, fennel, gold etc. it is best mind rejuvenator, memory
enhancer and antidepression tonic. Anupana –Water. Dose: 12-14ml

Exercise -Rigirous exercises are recommended to pacify tamas.

Sattavavajaya chikitsa -Achara rasayana (“satyavadinam akrodham…”)


and saddvrutta should be followed.

Yoga – Regular exercise of Sun salute is very useful along with following
postures –Tadasana, Vrikshasana, Dhanurasana, Naukasana, Sarvangasana,
Trikonasana, Bhujangasana, Halasana and Paschimottasana.

90
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Pranayam – Following types are useful - Nadi shuddhi pranayama,


Kapalabhati, Bhasrika with Jalandhara bandha and Uddiyan bandha.

Meditation should also be practised daily.

Spiritual Therapies –

Dhoop Chikitsa – Inhaling medicated smoke is useful for calming the mind
and giving relaxation. This is done by burning incenses made from agaru
(aquaria agalocha), Guggulu etc. Use of irritating smoke by burning dried
chillies is also done for removing negative emotions from the mind by
compelling the patient to inhale irritating smoke of chili, vacha etc.

Mantra – Mantra consists of most powerful energized sounds/words.


Stimulant and powerful mantras should be chanted loudly.

Maha mrityunjay mantra.

Aum trayambakam yajamahe


sugandim pusti vardhanam
urvaa rukam iva bandhanaat
mrytyor mukshiya maamrtaat.

Aum, we worship Lord Shiva (The Three eyes done) who is full of fragrance
and who nourishes all beings, may he liberath from death, for the sake of
immortality, just as the ripe cucumber is severed from its bondage (of the
creator) known as the Moksha Mantra of Lord Shiva, Maha Mrityunjay
Mantra evokes the Shiva with in and removes the tear of death, liberating us
from the cycle of death and rebirth.

Always chant Surya gayatri mantra. Om bhurbuvah swaha...

Yantra -

Specific geometric parts having powerful vibrations are “Yantras”

Sri Yantra, which is most complex and most harmonizing is worshipped and
kept with the patient.

91
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Mani chikitsa – Gem Therapy

1. Ruby (Manik) with gayatri mantra.

2. Coral (Prawal) -Chant Mars planet mantra (Dharani garbha


sambhutam…)

3. Topaz (Pushkaraj) -Chant Jupiter planet mantra (Devennachya


rishinancha..…)

4. Sapphire (Neelam) -Chant Sapphire planet mantra (Neelanjana


sabhasam……)

Homa chikitsa -

Burning cow dung cakes also takes care of ghosts, especially if the dried
chilies are thrown in the fire. Several substances which cause holy smoke are
used in Yagyas as offering ("Aahuti") to fire.

Colors

Stimulant and bright colours are recommended for wall paint and cloths.
Yellow, red and orange and shades of colours are useful.

Aroma therapy

Incense, oils, etc. of rosemary, eucalyptus, peppermint and basil is


recommended.

Music

Stimulating music is recommended.


Instruments played/listened are Trumpet, drums, beguile, nagara etc.
Listen Indian classical ragas like – Kedar, Vrindavani Sarang, Chandrakaush

Ashvasana -Counselling

92
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Don’t procrastinate, hide, or run away. Believe that you have the power to
overcome your anxiety. Immediately, it may not feel good to face your fears
directly, but if you apply this strategy consistently, it always works.

Sattavavajaya chikitsa -

Achara rasayana (“satyavadinam akrodham…”) and Saddvrutta.

Formulations -

Anti-depressant tea:
11 leaves of Holy basil
1/4-1/2 tsp dry ginger powder
1 tsp crystal sugar or 10 gms jaggery or date sugar
1 cup of water
Boil for 10 minutes and drink twice/thrice a day.

93
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Chapter 6

Anorexia Bulemia – Anorexia Nervosa- Arochak-Aruchi

Modern Perspective

DSM-IV Criteria:

Anorexia Nervosa

• Refusal to maintain body weight


• Fear of weight gain
• Body image disturbance
• Amenorrhea
• Restricting or Binge-Eating/Purging Type

DSM-IV Criteria:

Bulimia Nervosa

• Recurrent episodes of binge eating


• Recurrent inappropriate compensatory behavior
• Occur at least 2X / wk for 3 months
• Self-evaluation unduly influenced by body shape and weight
• Occurs exclusive of Anorexia Nervosa
• Purging or Nonpurging type

SYMPTOM Anorexia Nervosa- Bulimia Nervosa

Body Image Distortion - YES - YES

Over Concern Weight/Shape- YES - YES

Anxiety after Eating - YES - YES

94
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Weight Control Fasting - Purging

Binge Eating Occasional - Frequent

Forbidden Food - Avoid - Binge on

Secondary Psychopathology- Severe - Moderate to Severe

Anorexia Nervosa

In Ayurveda, symptoms of Anorexia nervosa resembles like “AROCHAK”

A person suffering from arochak will develop a strong dislike for food,
which may cause the person to become underweight and poorly developed in
body and physique. In severe cases, arochak can also lead to starvation or
metabolic problems caused due to lack of food in the body.

Definition of arochak

The word arochak is derived from the Sanskrit ‘aruchi’, which means ‘lack
of taste’. Lack of taste is what results in the condition of arochak. Arochak is
defined as a bodily condition that is caused by reduced eating methods.
Anorexic people are frightened of putting on weight, and are obsessed with
extreme slimness. This causes a dislike of food in the person. Anorexic
people are generally underweight and have erratic metabolic functions.

Today, arochak has become a very widespread disease. This has been
aggravated by the media that projects thin women as beautiful. Hence girls
try to imitate those models and fast until they too get a slim figure. This
notion has caused thousands of cases of arochak.

Arochak can be fatal if not cured early on. Since a person with arochak will
lose interest in food, it will directly affect the health of the person. The
person will have secondary problems like giddiness, dizziness, headaches,
cramps, nausea, vomiting, digestive problems.

Arochak is not just related with the body of the person. The cause of the
disorder is seated within the thoughts of the person, and its effects are felt in
the functions of the body.

95
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Causes -

Restriction of food intake, fear of weight gain, taking diet of one rasa only,
grief, anxiety etc. factors, vitiated food consumption history.

Likes and Dislikes – Most people develop likes and dislikes when they are
young, which remain with them throughout their lives. Some children have
dislikes for particular types of food, whereas some of them may dislike food
in general. Some children do not like the process of sitting down in a place
and eating. All such developmental attributes cause arochak in later life.

Social Factors – The advertising media vastly propagates the thin and waif-
like figure as the ideal body. Most of the models shown in advertisements
are deploringly thin, and this brings into the minds of the youth a false idea
of beauty. Youth try to emulate these figures by themselves eating less. This
is the leading cause of arochak today, especially in the progressive societies
where it is considered very important to be body-conscious.

Metabolic Functions – People who suffer from hypothyroidism, Addison’s


disease or Simmond’s disease have more chances of suffering from arochak
as their digestive systems and taste buds fail to respond to stimuli. An
imbalance in the chemicals of the brain can also be the root cause of
arochak.

Wrong Dieting Techniques – Today, there are as many weight-loss centers


as there are weight-gain centers. The trends too have changed. It is now no
longer the obese people who are enrolling for weight-loss; people with slim
bodies are also joining for these programs. Several of these weight-loss
centers are making their clients almost starve. This is creating an impression
that a slim figure is the ideal figure, and increasing the incidences of
arochak.

Types – Vata, Pitta, Kapha, Tridoshik and Manasik

Vata Type -
Feeling of astringent taste in mouth, taste buds shows tasteless feeling, some
patients may observe pain in the chest.

Pitta Type –

96
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Bitter taste in mouth, feeling of heat inside body and foul smelling
perspiration.

Kapha Type -
Sweet / Salty taste in mouth, slimy feeling in mouth, heaviness and dullness
in the body.

Tridoshik -
Symptoms of all doshas are seen.

Manasik -

Because of emotional factors like anxiety, fear, grief, greed, mouth becomes
tasteless, refusal to eat, denial of hunger, flat mood, or lack of emotion,
difficulty concentrating

Symptoms-

Arochak is not a disease; it is a disorder. As such, there are no prominent


symptoms in order to diagnose the condition. But arochak in a person can be
easily found out by some signs and signals. These are given below:-

The person will not be eating even while in company. He or she will keep
busy by playing with the food, talking with others or just generally pushing
the food around the plate.

A major portion of the food will be left uneaten in the plate and finally
thrown into the waste basket.

A person with arochak will serve others but not for himself or herself. He or
she will wait until all have eaten.

The person will be reluctant to attend parties or social functions in which


food is part of the event.

The person will regularly pass comments or remarks on the slim figures of
other people and complain about his or her own physique.

The person will try to skip meals and give excuses for not eating.

97
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

The person will not indulge in strenuous activity as he or she will not have
the required bodily strength.

The person will spend a lot of time looking at himself or herself in the
mirror. He or she will keep pinching the flesh especially around the tummy
to see if there is any excessive weight.

Effects of Anorexia Nervosa

Arochak is a very complex eating disorder with several effects on the body.

The person will lose interest in food. This will cause malnutrition.
Malnutrition can bring on a host of diseases in the person such as:-

Kwashiorkor, Marasmus , Pellagra, Scurvy, Anemia, osteoporosis etc.

Malnutrition will reduce the resistance of the body. This can make the body
susceptible to other diseases.

Arochak will retard the sexual functions in both men and women. In men
there is a decreased sexual drive which may culminate into impotence. In
women anorexia may cause missing of menstrual periods

Treatment

Shodhana - Purification

Purification or Panchakarma should be done as per predominance of dosha.

Shamana – Pacification

Abhyanga:
Soothing abhyanaga is very good for pacifying vitiated vata.

Research -The Journal of treatment and prevention 9:217-228,2001


Anorexia nervosa patients reported lower levels of stress and cortisol after
massage than that of standard treatment.

Vata Type -

98
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Kawalagraha (Holding of medicine in mouth cavity), Gandoosha (gargling)


of Kushtha (Saucerra lappa), Rock salt, Sugar, Black pepper, Cummin
mixed with oil and honey.

Pitta Type -
Kawalagraha (Holding of medicine in mouth cavity), Gandoosha (gargling)
of Amalaki, Pippali, Cardamom, Usheer, Sandlewood mixed with oil and
honey.

Kapha Type -
Lodhra (Symplocos racemosus), Haritaki, dry ginger, black pepper, Pippali
mixed with oil and honey.

Other types -
Ginger, Pomengranate, Cummin, sugar mixed with oil and honey.

In all above cases, after initial doses, Medhya Rasayana is advised. This
helps to re-establish mind-sense organ-intelligence- pathway so as to have
appropriate taste and hunger

There are some simple ayurvedic home remedies for the treatment of
arochak. Some of them are given below:-

1) A chutney preparation of adrak (ginger) in equal amounts of ghee,


sweetened with some jaggery is a very good treatment method. This chutney
is meant to be eaten twice in a day, once at dawn and once at dusk. This
mixture increases the appetite and builds up a craving for food.

2) Take some extract of lemon and mix some sugar with it. Flavor it with
cloves and black pepper. Drink this like a drink once a day. This drink also
increases appetite. The clove and pepper add flavor and improve the taste
buds of the person.

3) Ginger with salt half an hour before food.

Counselling -

1) It is important for an ayurvedic physician to make a patient understand


about various traits of constitution and how it is a normal prevalence.

99
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

The person with Kapha dominance will have more weight and have its own
benefits, while that of Vata dominance will have slim stature but have its
own demerits also.

2) Physical appearance is not only the factor but the mental and spiritual
beauty is important in real life.

3) To make patient understand worst consequences of starving.

4)Give him/her hope and make him/her aware that it is never too late.

Bulemia -

In ayurveda, it is termed as “Bhasmak”.

In this disorder, there is too much hunger, and a patient tends to binge
eating. But because of fear of weight gain, he / she go for purgation or
vomiting to take food content out.

This is the only disease, where there is no agnimandya – low digestive fire,
but on the contrary, there is intense digestive fire.

Because of this digestive fire, the patient go for binge eating, without which
this digestive fire is not pacified. But later he understands that because of
heavy food, he / she may gain more weight. This tends to taking purgative or
emetics so as to take the consumed food out and thus avoid weight gain.

Because of this vicious cycle, entire digestive system goes wild and in turn if
vitiates vata dosha.
This vitiated vata again disturbs digestive fire and emotional state of mind
also gets disturbed, which leads to nervousness, grief, restlessness,
instability etc.

Treatment:
Intake of heavy food like Jaggery etc.
Apamarg (Achyranthus aspera) is the choice of herb in this disorder.
Medhya herbs to take care of mental imbalance.
Kapalabhati pranayama is best for Bhasmak.

100
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Chapter 7

Addiction - Mada

Addiction is a stage where the affected person becomes physically and


emotionally dependent upon certain substances. (e.g. alcohol, tobacco). Such
substances are called as “Madakari” as per Ayurveda and the condition is
termed as Madatyaya. These substances vitiate intelligence (buddhi) and
hence called as Madakari (the one creates addiction). These are Tamasic in
nature.

Properties of addictive substances -

These are similar to those of poison.

These are – light, hot, penetrating, subtle, sour, dry and instant action.

These properties are exactly opposite of Ojus. In short these substances


destroy Ojus.

Etiology -

1) Pradnyaparadha

2) The person suffering from various emotional disturbances like anger,


grief, fear, bad companion etc. are prone to become addict.

Pathogenesis -

The addictive substance when taken by the person, being opposite properties
of Ojus, vitiates Ojas. It enters in heart, where mind and intelligence is
located, and vitiates them. Thus function of buddhi /intelligence i.e.
comprehension (Dhi), memory (Dhriti) and recollection (Smriti) are
disturbed.

101
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

One of the important complications of addiction is erectile dysfunction. It


diminishes erection by peripheral neuropathy of pudendal nerve and by
damaging penile blood vessels.

Research on Alcohol -

1. Risk of developing cirrhosis, pancreatitis, stroke, cancer (NIAAA, Vol 17)

2. Sexual impotency (Alcohol provokes desire but takes away the pleasure-
Shakespeare in Macbeth)

3. Decrease pleasure and intensity of male orgasm (M & J)

4. Alcohol diminishes tactile stimulation and impairment of reflex


mechanism of erection (Novak and Victor)

5. 80% of chronic alcoholic are reported to be sterile and their testes shows
testes show seminiferous tubule atrophy and abnormal sperms. (Morrione
Bennett)

Symptoms -

These have been described in 3 stages

1) First stage – Vitiation of intelligence, excessive joy, starts enjoying but


has proper knowledge of food and his memory is still good. He may start
singing or dancing and later on go to sleep.

2) Second stage – Person looses his memory and starts irrelevant speech. He
may suffer from vertigo.

3) Third stage – In this stage he has no knowledge about the surroundings,


friends and relatives and does not recognize them, goes to sleep as if he is
dead.

Treatment -

102
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Treatment consists of both yuktivyapashray (medication) and Sattvavajay


(boosting of moral)

A) Purification – Panchakarma -

The Panchakarma Treatments are meant to flush out the toxins.


If the patient is still taking addictive drugs and alcohol after the first
treatment then he should be given this treatment. In which the patient is kept
on very light food so that his or her mind become pure and clean and after
that with the help of other therapies and medications patient is kept away
from the drugs.

This treatment is especially useful to take out “Tamas” dosha. It also


cleanses system so that ill effects of addiction on body are removed.

Vamana
It is a treatment that eliminates the vitiated kapha through the upper gastro-
intestinal track. It expels and cleanses Kapha dosha and other impurities in
body. It has been found to be highly effective in the treatment of de
addiction patients. Herbs generally used in for this include – emetic nut,
sweet flag, Liquorice etc.

Virechana
For this procedure, purgative herbal medicines are given for elimination of
poisonous waste materials. The purgative medicine consists of herbal
powders, medicated castor oil or herbal paste. For this purpose compounds
like Avipattika choorna, Gandharva haritaki etc. can be used. It is especially
useful when the person is of Pitta constitution in nature and having strong
emotions like anger etc.

Basti
In this form of treatment special medicines are introduced through the anal
route for the evacuation of accumulated toxins and metabolic wastes. It is
highly recommended for addiction. Honey, rock salt, herbal pastes, oils and
decoctions are the main ingredients used in basti.
It helps to cover instability and helps to calm down the patient.

Blood letting –Raktamokshana -

103
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Impure/vitiated blood in body because of addiction is taken out by blood


letting. It helps to minimize the vitiation in the body stagnated because of
addiction.

Abyanga /Massage
Snehana and Swedana help the patient body to get back its power and vigor
back. It also calms down negative emotions and soothes body and mind as
well.

Research:
International journal of neuroscience 84:205-217,1996
20 adult smokers were taught to conduct a hand or ear self massage during
three cravings a day for 1 month.
They had lower anxiety scores, improved mood and fewer withdrawal
symptoms in comparison to a control group. They also smoked fewer
cigarettes per day and found decrease in cortisol and increase in serotonin
levels.

Shriodhara
It helps the patient to fight back with the withdrawal symptoms of drugs
In this process herbal oil, medicated milk, medicated butter milk etc. are
poured on the forehead in a special method for about 45-50 minutes.
Ingredients used in Sirodhara include gooseberry, dashmool decoction etc.

Thakradhara
It is the profuse pouring of specially prepared buttermilk on the forehead of
the person for 45 minutes. This cools down the brain, relaxes the mind and
reduces stress, tension and anxiety.
This butter milk is a mixture of assorted herbs and spices and also includes
such herbs as gooseberry, sandal wood, valerian, vetiver and lotus etc.
Gooseberry and lotus are excellent cooling agents.

Thalapotichil
It is the application of herbal paste on the scalp of a patient for a specific
period of time. Selected medicinal herbs, thoroughly ground and made in to
a fine paste, is thickly applied on the scalp of the person. The scalp part of
the head is then covered up with usually banana leaf to allow the medicine to
stay on and function well. This stays on the person’s head for almost 45
minutes giving wonderful relaxation to the mind. Fruits and herbs such as
gooseberry, Liquorice, asparagus, henna, lotus seeds, sandal etc are

104
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

moisturized in buttermilk before grinding it to paste form. The paste thus


obtained becomes a rich blend of various cooling agents.

Herbs – Powders or tablets of following herbs should be given.

1. Asvaghanda -Gives strength to mind and intelligence.


2. Aloe vera -Most suitable herb for balancing liver functions that has gone
out of balance due to addiction.
3. Shatavari -It restores emotional sensitivity.
4. Brahmi -Acts on intelligence.
5. Yasthimadhu -It is helpful to boost immune system and calming down
the mind.
5. Gudduchi - Useful for strengthening the nerve system.
6. Jatamansi -Reduces anxiety and neurosis.
7. Shankhpushpi -Boosts intelligence.

Juice - Kharjur/Dates, Manuka/dry grapes, Dadim/Pomengranate, Amalaki,


Ela/Cardamom

Decoction – Punarnavadi or Yashtyadi decoction.

Bhasma – Praval / coral, swarnamakshik/iron pyrite, tamra/copper, shukti/


conch, mukta / pearl

Medicated wines – Alcoholic beverages like Beejapurakadi madya –


medicated wine - prepared from citrus type of fruit is given to patients in
low doses till he feels hungry and lightness of body after which he is given a
nutritious diet. This is because excess alcohol renders food alkaline (kshara).
This alkalinity is neutralized by amla rasa of wine. (Ch. chi. 24/110, 121).
Consumption of medicated wines (arishta or asava) made of herbs such as
liquorices, bala, turmeric, dry ginger etc. are both beneficial for health as
they have very low percentage of self generating alcohol. Consumption of
these wines will help those undergoing de addiction treatments to
completely eliminate their dependence and craving for alcohol.

105
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Other prepared medicated wines are -Srikhandasava, drakshasava and


ushirasava.

Medicated Ghee -Triphaladi ghee and Kalyanaka ghee.

Treatment of complications -

1. Dental problems (due to tobacco and smoking) – Patients are advised to


use medicated, herbal dental creams and powders. Medicated smoking as
described in Ayurveda by using various herbs has been found to be effective.

2. Constipation – Eating food with lots of fibers like vegetarian diet


containing salads and fruits is useful. Some herbal combinations that are
useful are -Gandharva Haritaki and Avipattikar powder.

3. Insomnia - A cold infusion of Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi) or


Dhamasa (Fagonia arabica) is given for those with sleep problems.

Diet – The patient should be given Sattvic and Anti -Pitta diet containing
lots of ghee and milk with fresh fruits and fresh vegetables. Meat soups with
ghee are also advised. In the morning guda-shunthi yoga should be given
and at night triphala powder should be given.

Vata constitution- Mixture of Tikatu, Saindhava and water can be given.

Pitta constitution – Mixture of dates and water with green gram soup or
soups of meat with sweet substances is useful.

Kapha constitution – If the digestion is very low, spices like trikatu should
be given.

106
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Yoga - Various yogasanas like Vrikshasana, Taadasana, Paschimottasana,


Naukasana are recommended.

Pranayama - Anuloma viloma, kapalabhati, sheetali and Uddiyan bandha.

Meditation – Should be practiced daily.

Life style -
Patient should to avoid tension and worry in their daily lives.
Taking short walk in open fields and gardens is useful as these provide
serenity and uplift the mind and soul. Cycling and swimming are
recommended.
Take sufficient sleep and take part in social get together and become
involved in social groups. This will help them to be active group members
and they will soon realize the futility of following an individualistic path and
their drug addiction.
Light entertainments like listening music, watching entertaining movies,
rearing pets etc have been found to pacify the excited and disturbed body
and mind and speed up the recovery process in de addiction patients. To be
in a good company always helps for those who have a strong motivation to
get rid of their addiction get the best long-term results. To be busy and
involved in fruitful and interesting work is also beneficial.

Counseling -

Ayurveda gives importance to counseling as part of the de addiction


program. This will help to determine the root cause of addiction. Counseling
helps to resist the temptation to indulge in taking to drugs and alcohol once
again. This will help him to get rid of suicidal tendencies, acute anxiety,
restlessness etc.

107
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Chapter 8

Attentation Deficit / Hyperactive Disorder- ADHD

Modern Perspective

Attention deficit (hyperactivity) disorder (ADHD) is a chronic disorder that


affects children, and it can persist into adulthood.
Problems generally associated with ADHD include inattention, hyperactivity
and impulsive behavior.

Clinical features -
ADHD symptoms fall into two broad categories: -Inattention and
hyperactivity impulsive behavior.

In general, children are said to have ADHD if they show six or more signs or
symptoms from each category for at least six months. These symptoms must
significantly affect a child's ability to function in at least two areas of life —
typically at home and at school. This helps ensure that the problem isn't with
only a particular teacher or with only parents. Children who have problems
in school but get along well at home or with friends are not considered to
have ADHD.

Inattention -
Often fails to pay close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in
schoolwork or other activities, often has trouble sustaining attention during
tasks or play, seems not to listen even when spoken to directly.
Has difficulty following through on instructions and often fails to finish
schoolwork, chores or other tasks.
They have problems organizing tasks or activities, avoids or dislikes tasks
that require sustained mental effort, such as schoolwork or homework,
frequently loses needed items, such as books, pencils, toys or tools and can
be easily distracted. They are often forgetful.

Hyperactivity-impulsiveness -
They fidgets or squirms frequently, often leaves his or her seat in the
classroom or in other situations when remaining seated is expected

108
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Often runs or climbs excessively when it's not appropriate or, if an


adolescent, might constantly feel restless, frequently has difficulty playing
quietly.
Such children always seems on the go and talks excessively.
They blurt out the answers before questions have been completely asked and
have difficulty waiting for his or her turn.
Often interrupts or intrudes on others' conversations or games

Most healthy children exhibit many of these behaviors at one time or


another. For instance, parents may worry that a 3-year-old who can't listen to
a story from beginning to end or finish a drawing may have ADHD. But
preschoolers normally have a short attention span and aren't able to stick
with one activity for long. This doesn't mean they're inattentive
Even in older children and adolescents, attention span often depends on the
level of interest in a particular activity. Most teenagers can listen to music or
talk to their friends for hours but may be a lot less focused about homework.
Symptoms of ADHD in adults

ADHD always begins in childhood, but it may persist into adult life. The
core signs and symptoms of distractibility, hyperactivity and impulsive
behavior are the same for adults as for children, but they often manifest
themselves differently and far more subtly in adults. Hyperactivity, in
particular, is generally less overt in adults. Children may race around madly;
adults are more likely to be restless and to have trouble relaxing.
On the other hand, problems with organization and concentration often
increase as people get older when their lives become more complicated and
demanding. Adults diagnosed with ADHD often say that their biggest
frustration is their inability to focus and to prioritize, leading not only to
missed deadlines but also to forgotten meetings and social engagements.
As difficult as this is, the impulsive behavior of some adults with ADHD can
be even more problematic. The inability to control impulses, which some
experts say may be the defining characteristic of ADHD, can range from
impatience waiting in line or driving in heavy traffic to mood swings,
intense outbursts of anger, blurting out rude remarks and having troubled
relationships.

Causes –
Altered brain function and anatomy can be the main cause. While the exact
cause of ADHD remains a mystery, researchers have discovered important
differences in the brains of people with ADHD. For example,

109
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

neurotransmitters — the brain's chemical messengers — aren't used properly


in people with ADHD. Additionally, there appears to be less activity in the
areas of the brain that control activity and attention in people with ADHD.
In addition, brain scans have revealed that, on average, children with ADHD
have up to 4 percent smaller brain volumes than children without ADHD.
Heredity -ADHD tends to run in families. About one in four children with
ADHD have at least one relative with the disorder.

Smoking, drug use and exposure to toxins during pregnancy can cause this
disease. Pregnant women who smoke are at increased risk of having children
with ADHD. And alcohol or drug abuse during pregnancy may reduce
activity of the nerve cells (neurons) that produce neurotransmitters. Pregnant
women who are exposed to environmental poisons, such as polychlorinated
biphenyls (PCBs), also may be more likely to have children with symptoms
of ADHD. PCBs are industrial chemicals that were widely used in the past.
Childhood exposure to environmental toxins. Preschool children exposed to
certain environmental toxins, particularly lead and PCBs, are at increased
risk of developmental and behavioral problems, many of which are similar
to those found in children diagnosed with ADHD. Exposure to lead, which is
found mainly in paint and pipes in older buildings, has been linked to
disruptive and even violent behavior and to a short attention span. Exposure
to PCBs in infancy may also increase a child's risk of developing ADHD.

Treatment -

Psychotherapy - This allows older children and adults with ADHD to talk
about issues that bother them, explore negative behavioral patterns and learn
ways to deal with their symptoms.

Behavior therapy -This type of therapy helps teachers and parents learn
strategies (contingency management procedures) for dealing with children's
behavior. These strategies may include token reward systems and timeouts.
Behavior modification using contingency management techniques has
proved especially beneficial for people with ADHD.
Family therapy. Family therapy can help parents and siblings deal with the
stress of living with someone who has ADHD.
Social skills training - This can help children learn appropriate social
behaviors.

110
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Support groups - Support groups can offer adults and children with ADHD
and their parents a network of social support, information and education.
Parenting skills training. This can help parents develop ways to understand
and guide their child's behavior.

ADHD –Ayurvedic Perspective -

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic disorder that


affects children, and it can persist into adulthood.

Problems generally associated with ADHD include inattention, hyperactivity


and impulsive behavior.

Etiology

Vata aggravating causes like eating dry and cold food.

During pregnancy if the proper diet and behavior is not followed by the
mother it can result in offspring getting this disease. Keeping new born
baby in strong light and malnourishment of child can become the cause
of the disease. Similarly constant watching of television programs,
playing video games, excess use cell phone can also cause this disease.

Pathogenesis-

Because of Vata aggravating factors, it vitiates and affects Manas and


other channels of child and results in inappropriate behavior and
restlessness.

Here earth component is diminished and air element is increased. As we


know quality of earth component is to provide stability, which is
affected and child is always unstable, which results in attention deficit
and hyperactivities.

Indriyartha (object)

111
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Dnyaneyendriya (Sense organ)


Manas (Mind) –Function of perception is disturbed


Buddhi (Intellect) – Wrong perception by intellect & wrong decision is taken


Manas (Mind) –Located in Hridaya (wrong decision is forwarded)

Karmendriya (Motor organ) – Wrong action by motor organs


Kriya (action) -Hyperactivity, Inattention, Impulsivity

Symptoms-

Hyperactivity, Inattention, Impulsivity are prominent symptoms – These


are termed as Anavasthitatva in Ayurveda. -Hyperactivity – Rajas/Pitta,
impulsivity – Rajas/Vata and inattention – Tamas/Kapha.

Treatment -

General line of psychological treatment -


Hyperactivity and impulsivity – treatment of Pitta and Vata (drugs having
cold potency)
Inattention – treatment alleviating Kapha (hot potency drugs)

Medhya herbs with cold potency– Shankhapushpi, mandukaparni, brahmi,


Yashtimadhu, shatavari, jatamansi.

Medhya herbs with hot potency – Vacha, aparajita, jyotishmati,


ashwagandha, tagar, haritaki, Pippali, kushtha.

Diet

112
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Don’ts - Cold fruit juices, all chemicals and preservatives in the diet, frozen
food, processed, sugar filled food, salted nuts, cold refrigerated food,
chocolates, Ice cream, watching TV while eating.

Do’s - Fresh fruits, warm food, organic food, unsalted nuts, whole grains,
bread, quinoa, rice, amaranth, whole wheat pasta etc, squashes, pumpkins,
zucchini and okra.

Formulations -
1.Brahmi ghrita
2.Saraswatarishta
3.Aswagandhadi lehya
4. Shatavari ghrita

Abhyanga – Oil Massage

Massage from head to toes with warm sesame oil 2-3 times a week.
This is followed by swedana, an herbal steam (using dashamula, or “ten
roots decoction”).

Meditation

Meditation is probably one of the most important self-help techniques


employable in the treatment ADD. Meditation will accustom the mind to
being calm. In time, the individual will begin to take this calm into all
activity, and will replace stress-induced hyperactivity with -composure.

Shirodhara

Warm medicated oil (Brahmi oil / Sesame oil) is poured over the
forehead

Takradhara -

Shirodhara of butter milk is done. This is very useful in ADHD.

Basti

Basti is an herbal enema, made with snehan / (sesame oil) and decoction
(dashamool) is administered alternately.

113
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Nasya

Nasya with Brahmi oil / cow ghee will help to stabilize mind and increase
concentration.

Yoga – Regular practice of Sun salute is beneficial. Following postures


should also be done on regular basis –Vajrasana, vrikshasana, tadasana
and shavasana.

Pranayama -

Anuloma Veeloma Pranayama

Mantra chanting -

Chanting of “Atharvasheersha” and “Ganesh Gayatri” are especially


useful to concentrate and calm down.

Some home remedies - -

1) Soak 3 unpeeled almonds overnight in a glass of water with one


whole black pepper and one teaspoon fennel seeds. In the morning,
remove the skins from the almonds and crush all three ingredients into a
paste. Add unequal parts ghee and honey to taste. Take this first thing in
the morning on an empty stomach and do not eat for 1 1⁄2 hours
afterwards. Continue every morning for 15 days.

2) Equal parts Brahmi, Ashwagandha, and Guduchi. Take 1 teaspoon of


the combination 2 times a day with warm water or with ghee and honey
to make a paste. This is Best nervine nutrition.

3) Equal parts of Jatamansi, Shankpushpi, and Brahmi. Take 1⁄2


teaspoon of the combination after meals 2 times a day. Vacha (Acorus
calamus) can also be added to this combination if easily tolerated by the
patient.

It strengthens and enhances intellect/medhya rasayana.

Other simple things that you can do - Do some fun activities sitting down
- drawing, painting, and coloring during some part of the day. Paint the
bedroom with calming colors like blue or green. Listen to tranquil music at

114
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

bed time. Keep the temperature in the bedroom warm. Always protect their
head and ears- from cold air. Limit TV time and Video games. (You may
have to limit your TV watching time too). Children don’t do what you tell
them to do, they do what you do. Play outdoors rather than sitting in front of
a TV

115
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Chapter 9

Autism
Modern Perspective

Autism is a brain development disorder characterized by impaired social


interaction and communication, and by restricted and repetitive behavior.

Etiology - This disease is caused by aggravated Vata affecting all the majja
dhatu in the body. The exact cause is unknown.
Thimerosol (mercurial preservative) in vaccines can be the causative factor.
Fragile X is the most common inherited cause of mental impairment and the
most common known genetic cause of autism. This can be diagnosed by
DNA test.
It is usually identified at the age of 30 months of age till it becomes of 3
years. Such child seems to exist in her or his own world.

Symptoms –
In general, children with autism have problems in three crucial areas of
development — social skills, language and behavior.
The most severe autism is marked by a complete inability to communicate or
interact with other people. The child performs repetitive movements, such as
rocking, spinning or hand-flapping, develops specific routines or rituals.
becomes disturbed at the slightest change in routines or rituals, moves
constantly, may be fascinated by parts of an object, such as the spinning
wheels of a toy car, may be unusually sensitive to light, sound and touch.

Ayurvedic Perspective

A gross imbalance of Rajas and Tamas i.e. Vata and Kapha particularly
prana Vata which is the Vata seated in the mind controlling all mental
functions such as speech, concentration, memory, learning and neurological
response.

Autism affects the functioning of the brain, impacting normal development


of the organ in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. All
these signs are functions of Vata. Among the five types of Vata - prana,

116
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Udana and Vyana and Kapha are mainly involved in Autism.

The protocol for autism is focused on removing toxins from the system and
at the same time nourishing and energising the cells so that they may repair.

Vata Type – Rajas increases - Cognitive impairment – Abnormal responses


to sensory stimuli – Abnormalities of motor behavior – Sleeping and eating
disorders, mood and affect disorders, self injurious behavior. Child may
have following symptoms- Fails to respond to his or her name, has poor eye
contact, appears not to hear you at times, resists cuddling and holding,
appears unaware of others' feelings, seems to prefer playing alone — retreats
into his or her "own world"

Kapha Type – Tamas increases leading to Mind blindness meaning the child
becomes emotionally flat.
Blocking of mental stimuli – Cognitive sense, mind impairment – Absence
of speech, intellectually subnormal. Such child starts talking later than other
children loses previously acquired ability to say words or sentences. Does
not make eye contact when making requests
Speaks with an abnormal tone or rhythm — may use a singsong voice or
robot-like speech. Can't start a conversation or keep one going. May repeat
words or phrases verbatim, but doesn't understand how to use them

Pathogenesis -

Indriyartha (Object)


Cognitive impairment (Sensory)


Manas (Mind) Blindness


Buddhi (Intelligence) – Wrong/Abnormal perception by intellect


Blocking of Manovaha Srotas

117
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Motor Abnormal behavior



Wrong action leads to social deficit, subnormal intellectual ability, inability
to communicate or interact with other people.

Treatment -
A) General line of psychological treatment should be given.
B) Treatment alleviating Kapha and Vata.
C) Treatment for removing obstruction in channels. Proper Panchakarma
procedures when required.
D) Herbs having hot potency like Shankhapushpi should be used.

Diet –
Do’s -

1) Vata and Kapha pacifying general diet should be followed.


2) Only ghee and olive oils should be used with a special emphasis on pure
cow ghee. Ghee removes impurities from the brain, nourishes the brain cells
and repairs damage from the toxins that have caused the autism.
3) Organic ingredients should be used as much as possible.
4) Home made Buttermilk should be served daily after lunch. ¼ cup of
yoghurt to ¾ cups of water blended with spices such as cardamom, black
pepper and cinnamon. A little jaggery or raw sugar can be added too. For a
digestive lassi add cumin, coriander and ginger.
5) 5-6 drops of coriander juice should be put into food each meal as a
seasoning.
6) Diluted fresh pomegranate juice should be taken daily.

Juices -
Following juices in dose of 2 cups per day are advised –Mango, apple,
grape, carrot, pineapple and litchi.
Fresh fruit juices (especially if organic and in season) aid in detoxification of
all tissues and are very calming and soothing to the mind and nerves. It is
preferable to use fruits available in particular season only.

Don’ts - All refined processed and chemical food, white sugar, potato chips,
chocolates, white flour, all types of soft drinks, leftovers, old cheeses, cold
foods and drinks, food cooked in microwave, nightshades and legumes and
Soya.

118
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Herbs – Vacha, shankhapushpi, jyotishmati, ashwagandha, tagar and tulasi


have good effects.

Formulations -
1. Shankhapushpi Avaleha -Jam processed in Shankhapushpi, gotu kola,
calamus etc. dose – 5 gm. Per day.
2. Smrutisagar Rasa -Formulation prepared from mercury, sulphur (Kajjali)
copper ash processed in gotu kola, calamus, jyotishmati etc. decoction.
Dose- 500 mg. twice day.
3.Manasmitra Vataka – 250 mg. Three times day.
4.Aravindasava -30 ml. Three times day.
5. Brahma rasayana – 5 gm. Per day.

Abhyanga -

Chandan bala lakshadi oil/ Sesame oil /Mahanarayan oil should be applied
daily to the entire spine slightly warmed and Oil should be applied to the
head especially the crown of the head. Vata oil should also be applied on the
third eye for massage to sthapani and shankha marma.
Almond oil should also be applied to the head and feet daily.

Nasya - Ksheerabala oil or cow ghee is useful.

Mantra chanting -
Mantras are very good for increasing Soma in the child and balancing the
mind. Tapes of mantras should be used. The Mahamrtyunja mantra should
be used as such.
Om triyambakam yajamahe sugandhim pushti vardhanam
Uvarukamiva bandhanan mrityor mukshia maamrutat

Note-
All vitamin supplements and any psychiatric medicines should be stopped
soon as possible. The body can not easily assimilate chemically extracted
vitamins. Rather get your vitamins from a balanced nutrition and strong
digestive fire. Strong medicines should be phased out and stopped as they
further add to toxicity. Check with your doctor and find natural substitutes or
consult with a qualified Ayurvedic doctor.

119
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Treatment has to be tailor-made for each child according to the severity and
presentation of symptoms. In addition, different children may respond
differently to the herbal medicines. Parents should avoid the temptation to
treat their children on their own.

120
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Chapter 10

Bipolar Disorder

From high to low, from mania to depression, from recklessness to


listlessness, these are the extremes associated with bipolar disorder, a mental
illness characterized by mood instability that can be serious and disabling.
Bipolar disorder is also known as manic-depression or manic-depressive
illness — manic behavior is one extreme of this disorder, and depression is
the other.

The deep mood swings of bipolar disorder may last for weeks or months,
causing great disturbances in the lives of those affected, and those of family
and friends, too. Today, a growing volume of research suggests that bipolar
disorder occurs across a spectrum of symptoms, and that many people aren't
correctly diagnosed. Left untreated, bipolar disorder generally worsens, and
the suicide rate is high among those with bipolar disorder. But with effective
treatment, you can live an enjoyable and productive life despite bipolar
disorder.

Bipolar disorder is recognized in Ayurveda as two extremes of Vata and


Kapha imbalances. Persons are either manic or depressed.

Etiology-
Bipolar disorder manifests due to imbalance of the physical doshas Vata and
Kapha and the mental doshas rajas and tamas.

Pathogenesis -
Aggravated Vata dosha causes mania. Aggravated Kapha leads to
aggravation of tamas property. As a result, the person may experience
depression.

Symptoms -

Mania, Depression, or Mixed State


Mania state (Vata vitiation) – Euphoria, inflated self-esteem, poor
judgment, rapid speech, aggressive behavior, agitation, increased physical
activity, spending sprees, increased drive to perform or achieve goals,

121
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

decreased need for sleep, tendency to be easily distracted, and inability to


concentrate.
Kapha (Depression) state – Sadness, feeling of hopelessness, suicidal
thoughts or behavior, guilt, sleep problems, appetite problems, fatigue, loss
of interest in daily activities and problems in concentrating thoughts.

Treatment -
Ayurvedic herbs used for bipolar disorder are adaptogenic in nature. They
are equally valuable for mania or depression. The intent is not to force the
brain out of a depressive or a manic episode by providing herbal uppers or
downers but to balance the doshas and to normalize the production of
neurotransmitters.

Nasya -
With calamus oil is useful as it helps to pacifies both Kapha and Vata.

Basti
Basti with Sesame oil and Dashmula decoction is best to pacify Vata and
Kapha.

Herbs -

1. Brahmi -(Bacopa monniera)


Bacopa monniera acts as a 'brain tonic' capable of improving mental ability,
anxiety and memory. It improves memory and builds energy by increasing
the circulation to the brain.

Aside from increasing intellectual and cognitive function, Brahmi induces a


sense of calm and peace in its users. It is unique in its ability to invigorate
mental processes whilst reducing the effects of stress and nervous anxiety.
This makes Brahmi extremely applicable in highly stressful work or study
environments where clarity of thought is as important as being able to work
under pressure. Many people have the intelligence to perform to strict
standards, but lack the composure and self-confidence to reach them.
Additionally, Brahmi helps soothe the restlessness and distraction that

122
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

nervousness causes. Brahmi is ideal for students and workers faced with this
problem.

2.Tulsi -(Holy Basil)


Stress, anxiety and depression can reduce productivity as worsen the quality
of sleep. Effective remedy for all these and other associated symptoms,
Alert, restores peace of mind.

3.Shankhapushpi: -(Convolvulus Alsinoides Linn)


Popularly known to treat sleep disorders - stress and anxiety, Shankapushpi
is quoted in Charaka to be the single greatest herb for enhancing all three
aspects of mind power -- learning (Dhi), memory (Driti), and recall (Smriti).
Thus it is called the greatest Medhya Rasayana (that which enhances the
mind). It helps the quality of sleep by improving mind-body coordination.
Shankapushpi is very beneficial for the nervous system, enhancing the
quality of bone marrow and nerve tissue.

4.Ashwagandha -(Withania somnifera).


Ashwagandha is highly valued for its restorative action on the functioning of
the nervous system and counteracting high blood pressure. It corrects loss of
memory arising out of long term stress, illness and overwork. Restores
vitality in those suffering from overwork and nervous exhaustion. In fact,
having the ability to nurture the nervous system, counteract anxiety and
stress to promote a calm state of mind.

Generally, Ashwagandha stimulates the immune system. It has also been


shown to inhibit inflammation and improve memory. Taken together, these
actions support the traditional reputation of Ashwagandha as a tonic or
adaptogen. It counteracts the effects of stress and generally promotes
wellness.

Diet -
Fresh fruits, fruit juices, vegetables (raw or cooked or boiled), vegetable
juices, sprouts, nuts, dry fruits, honey, milk, ghee, fresh butter, and
buttermilk are the best to increase sattva and enrich the mind.

123
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Avoid black tea, coffee, white flour products, chocolates, white sugar
products, deep fried foods, hot spices, meat, fish, and eggs.

Yoga -Yoga is best for balancing two forces. Following postures should be
done on regular basis – Paschimottanasana, vrikshasana, tadasana and
Halasana.

Pranayama -Mind has a very close relation with breathing. A person has
short and shallow breathing when anxious or stressed and has deep breathing
when relaxed and happy. Nadishuddhi Pranayama should be done every day.

Exercise -
Light exercise like walking is recommended.
Sun salutes helps to stabilize mood.

Meditation -
For calming down the mind, meditation should be done.

Abhyanga –Oil massage – This is the best remedy to calm down body and
mind. Sesame oil or Mustard oil can be used.

Mantra- Some specific long chanting mantras like – Atharvasheersha of


Lord Ganesha, Gayatri mantra and Mahamrutyunjaya mantra should be
chanted.

124
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Chapter 11
Alzheimer’s Disorder – Smruti Bhramsha

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive degenerative brain disease. Gradual


memory loss, poor cognitive skills, dementia and personality problems are
the main symptoms associated with Alzheimer's disease.

Ayurveda terms this as smruthi bhramsha, caused by the depletion of dhatus


or tissue elements and upward movement of the excessively vitiates doshas.
Intellect is pure, transparent, sharp, accurate, and subtle. The intellect gets
disturbed and their balance is lost. Sattva quality, which represents purity
and consciousness, gets impaired by properties of vitiated Rajas and Tamas.

As regards to Doshas, Alzheimer's disease is due to imbalance of Vata,


which is common in old age. According to Ayurvedic principles, Vata in the
tissues of nervous system, especially brain gets imbalanced. This directly
leads to problems like lower levels of co-ordination, clear thinking, lack of
inhibitions and retarded words and actions.

In Alzheimer's disease, the Vata is severely provoked in the majja dhatu, the
tissue layer which includes the nervous system and all other tissues which
are contained within bone. Dry quality of Vata aggravates, and it vitiates the
brain. In addition, the Vata passes from the majja dhatu to the manovaha
srotas, or "mind-carrying channels," causing thought disorders such as
paranoia and delusions as well as memory loss and confusion.

The causes of this severe Vata provocation within majja dhatu and mano
vaha srotas are both hereditary and acquired. Susceptible people are those
who have a hereditary weakness of the majja dhatu. Once vata is provoked,

125
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

it follows the line of least resistance, moving into the weakest tissue layer, in
this case, the majja dhatu. Acquired causes are those which serve to
aggravate the Vata dosha sufficiently to bring about the onset of the disease
in susceptible subjects.

Etiology - Coffee-driven lifestyle, environmental toxins, pesticides,


herbicides, lead, and other toxins and Vata aggravating factors.

Symptoms –
1. Early stage -The earliest sign is patient looses the smell of coffee,
cinnamon and banana
Loss of recent memory,
Inability to learn and retain new information.
Patient may have language problems, mood swings, and personality
changes.
Difficulties with the activities of daily living develop, judgment is affected,
and family members may begin to report strange behaviors
2. Intermediate stage -Patients are unable to learn and recall new
information.
They may require assistance with their activities of daily living.
Their behavior becomes disorganized.
They may begin to wander around, become uncooperative, hostile, and be
physically aggressive.
They loose sense of time and place.
3. Severe stage - They are completely unable to perform activities of daily
living, they may or may not be completely incompetent, and there is
complete loss of recent and remote memory.
Depression is very common.
Patients may have loss of some motor skills, be unable to eat or swallow,
and are usually placed in a long-term care facility.

Diet – 1.Grains -Rice, wheat, quinoa, oats, amaranth (chauli), all cooked
until tender. 2. Vegetables -Asparagus, tender greens, carrots, peas, green
beans, white daikon (mula), zucchini (dodka/ghosale), lauki squash, sweet
potatoes, all cooked. 3. Fruits -Avocado, pineapple, papaya, peaches, plums,
grapes, mangoes, oranges, cherries, all kinds of berries, limes and lemons,
apples, coconut, fresh figs, raisins (soaked). 4. Lentils -Mung beans, urad
dal, mung dal, masoor dhal, toor dal, red lentils, all cooked until butter-soft.

126
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

5. Dairy -Whole milk, cream, butter, fresh butter milk, cottage cheese, fresh
cheese. 6. Oils: -Ghee, olive oil, sesame oil, cold-pressed nut oils such as
walnut. 7. Others -Fresh ginger root, cilantro, curry leaves, parsley, fresh
basil, fresh fennel, mint. 8. Nuts and Seeds -Almonds (soaked and
blanched), cashews, walnuts (soaked), pistachios, hazelnuts, pecans
(soaked), pine nuts, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds. 9.
Spices -Ajwain, dried ginger, asafetida (hing) in small quantities, fenugreek,
turmeric, cumin, clove, cardamom, coriander, fennel, black pepper, basil,
Chinese cinnamon, nutmeg, mustard seed, mint, rosemary, thyme, lemon
and orange zest, oregano, rock salt or sea salt, black salt, dried mango
powder, pomegranate seeds or powder. 10. Prepared recipes -Khichari:
This consists of Basmati rice, mung dal, well-cooked vegetables, and mild
digestive spices such as cumin, coriander, fennel, turmeric, and ginger. Rice
milk, soy milk, poppy seeds, sucanat, turbinado sugar, raw honey, and tofu
in moderation (diced small and cooked with spices)

Herbs –Brahmi, calamus, jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi). Any one of


these in dose of 500 mgm. Twice day and Jam of Chyavanprash 5 gm per
day.

Abhyanga – Oil massage -


Daily oil massage (or self massage) before taking a warm shower is
necessary for pacification of Vata.

Sudation / Fomentation -
After massage, patient should take steam bath to pacify Vata.

Basti -
Madhu tail basti – Mix together all the ingredients. Heat the same upto
body temperature and then give basti, alternate day.
1 1/2 pint pure water
1 oz. anise seeds
1 oz. ashwaganda (Withania somnifera)
1 oz. brahmi (Bacopa monniera)
Simmer, with lid on, for 20 minutes, and then add:
2 oz honey
2 oz sesame oil
1 t salt
Strain and cool to slightly above blood heat and use as enema.

127
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Oil Matra basti -


Sesame oil basti with increase in sneha daily.

Nasya -
Vacha oil nasya (Acorus calamus) in sesame oil — best for vata
Brahmi (Bacopa monniera), ghee nasya — best for pitta

Shiro dhara -
Dhara with sesame oil should be administered for 45 minutes to calm down
and strengthen mind.

Shirobasti -
A therapy where medicated oil is kept on the head for a specific period with
the help of a cap

Pranayama-

Breathing techniques to rejuvenate the brain cells. The main effects of


Pranayama manifest in the nervous system and in the subtle psychic energy
body .The breath is known as thread of life and depending on its action the
entire life process is refined, balanced or else thrown out of proper order.
Anuloma Veeloma Pranayama and Bhramari pranayama should be done on
daily basis.

Others -Do not skip meals. Eat a nourishing lunch at mid-day and lighter
meals at breakfast and dinner. Sit down to eat each meal, eat in a peaceful
atmosphere with your attention on your food, and sit quietly for a few
minutes after your meal.

Daily elimination is very important to prevent ama from accumulating in the


body. Triphala Rasayana helps promote regularity as well as toning the
digestive system. Since Triphala is gentle, not habit forming and not
depleting, it can be taken indefinitely to maintain regularity.

Protect yourself from the cold and wind. Stay warm and toasty in cold
weather by wearing several layers of clothing. Wear a cap and scarf when
you go out to protect your ears and throat. Wear lip balm to prevent lips
from getting dry and chafed.

Walking is the ideal exercise for balancing Vata. Walk in the early morning,
for about 20 minutes every day.

128
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

You may have to woo sleep if Vata dosha is aggravated. It is important to


get to bed early, so that you can get adequate rest each night. A cup of warm
milk, with a pinch of nutmeg, can be helpful before bedtime.

At bedtime, the soles of the feet should be massaged with warm sesame oil.

Research -

British Jurnal of Pharmacology 2005, April 144(7), 961-71

Withanolide from Ahawagandha induced significant regeneration of both


axons and dendrites. There is also reconstruction of pre and post synapses in
the neurons. It also reserves beta induced memory deficit and regenerated
axons, dendrites and synapses in cerebral cortex and hippocampus.

129
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Chapter 12

Parkinson’s disease - Kampavata

Parkinson's disease, known in Ayurveda as "Kampa Vata,” is a progressive


neurological disorder resulting from degeneration of neurons in a region of
the brain that controls movement creating a shortage of the brain signalling
chemical dopamine, causing the movement impairments characterizing the
disease.

Etiology -

All factors that aggravate Vata can cause this disease – e.g. old age, Vata life
style, Vata aggravating food, heredity etc.

Pathogenesis -

Due to Vata vitiating factors Vyana Vata aggravates and disturbs rasa dhatu.
This Vata then vitiates Majjavaha and Manovaha srotas, and causes
Parkinsonism. In addition, Kapha gets diminished in the majja dhatu in
these patients. An increase in Vata dries out Kapha (cellular structure) in the
susceptible region of the Majja dhatu.

Symptoms –

Parkinson's Disease or "shaking palsy" is a brain disorder that causes muscle


tremor, stiffness, and weakness.
Early symptoms of Parkinson's disease include muscular stiffness, a
tendency to fatigue more easily than usual, and trembling that usually begins
with a slight tremor in one hand, arm, or leg. This trembling is worse when
the body is at rest but will generally stop when the body is in use, for
example when the hand becomes occupied by "pill-rolling" or rubbing the
thumb and forefinger together as if rolling a pill the tremor will stop.

130
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

As the disease progresses there is loss of appetite, stiffness affecting both


sides of the body, weakness, trembling muscles, a rigid posture, slow
movements, a stooped, shuffling, unbalanced walk, constant trembling of the
hands, head shaking, permanent rigid stoop, and an unblinking, fixed
expression occur.
In the later stages of Parkinson's disease the affected person loses the ability
to control their movements, making everyday activities hard to manage, and
the intellect begins to be affected by the disease.
About one-third of Parkinson's Disease sufferers eventually show signs of
dementia. The disease runs an average 10 to 15 year course and ultimately
results in death usually by an infection or aspiration pneumonia.

Treatment -

Ayurvedic treatment for this condition centers around the treatment of vata
disturbance.

Snehana & Swedana / Oleation and fomentation:

Snehana by sesame oil or chandanbala lakshadi oil, and fomentation by


Dashmool decoction should be done.

Nasya -

Pouring of herbal oil in drops in to the nostrils and inhaling the contents.
This opens up the head channels and enables the herb extracts to act directly
on the central nervous system.

The herbal oil is a mixture of sesame oil and herbs such as Sida plants, cow
milk processed in milk etc. etc.

Basti / Medicated Enema -

Basti is very important treatment to counteract Vata situated in majja dhatu.

Oils medicated with ashwagandha (withania somnifera) and bala (sida


cordifolia) are commonly used to pacify vata and build ojas.

Sirodhara -

131
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Pouring of warm medicated herbal oil on the person's forehead from a


suspended oil filled vessel. The medicated oil is made by boiling herbs and
fruits such as gooseberry, bala, sandalwood, bael, liquorices, nut grass tuber,
winter cherry etc. processed in sesame oil, coconut oil, ghee and milk.

Njavarakizhi
A process in which the whole body or any specific part is made to perspire
by applying custom made cotton pouches containing medicated rice cooked
with herbal decoction and milk. Sida, winter cherry are the herbs used in
making the decoction.

Thalapothichil -
It is the application of herbal paste on the scalp of a patient and covering it
with banana leaves. The process cools the brain and provides relaxation to
the mind. Fruits and herbs such as gooseberry, Liquorice, asparagus, henna,
lotus seeds, sandal, nut grass tuber, vetivera etc are used in the preparation
of this herbal paste.

Snehapaan / Ingestion of oils -

Naturally, jathargni must be strong enough to support such as a heavy


regimen.

Herbs -The herb atmagupta (Mucuna Pruriens - also known as


Kappikacchu) has received a lot of attention historically and again in recent
years.

Rasa : Madhura, Tikta


Guna : Guru, Snigdha
Vipaka: Madhura

Pacifies Vata, and is best nervine tonic as well as is natural source of L-


dopa.

Minerals -

1. Abhrak bhasma (Mica ash) -Pacifies Vata and Kapha. Best tonic to
Manas. boosts immunity and mental strength.

132
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

2. Suvarna bhasma -It is sweet, astringent, oily in nature and cool (Sheet)
impotency. It is one of the best detoxifier and acts on smruti, Pragya of the
manas. Best cardiotonic (location of mind) and pitta, vata pacifier.

3. Roupya bhasma (Silver ash) -Best intellect booster and regulates function
of Sadhak pitta. Best Vata and Pitta pacifier.

Formulations-

1. Bhramhi Ghee -Ghee processed in gotu kola herb juice.

2. Panchagavya Ghee -

3. Smrutisagar Rasa -Formulation prepared from mercury, sulphur (Kajjali)


copper ash processed in gotu kola, calamus etc. decoction.

4. Manasmitra tab. -
5. Vasantkusumakar rasa - Best tonic and gives strength to all tissues and
mans.

6. Sameerpannag Rasa -Best formulation of Kajjali, hartal, arsenic etc.


Potent Vata, kapha pacifier. Useful in acute stages of mental disorders,

7. Saraswatarishta- Medicated wine made up of Gotu kola, asparagus,


haritaki, ginger, fennel, gold etc. it is best mind rejuvenator, memory
enhancer and antistress tonic.

8. Chyavanprash -Chyavanprash is a comprehensive herbal tonic with


multiple health benefits, prepared according to an ancient Ayurvedic
formula. Used by people all over the world today, it is a proven energizer,
immunity booster and pre-emptive tonic.

Yoga -
Simple asanas like Vajrasana, Padmasana, Paschimottanasana are
recommended.

133
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Chapter 13

Insomnia -Anidra

Sleep deprivation or poor quality of sleep impacts both short-term and long-
term health.

Ayurveda does not dictate eight hours of sleep every night for everyone, but
quality of sleep and quantity of sleep required by an individual to completely
recharge in mind, body and soul are considered crucial for health, bliss and
longevity.

What is Sleep?

In Ayurveda the word nidra is used for sleep. When the mind gets tired and
Senses also gets detached from their objects then sleep occurs. During the
sleep the senses gets detached from their objects, but mind may get involved
in its objects like thinking etc, which results in dreams.

Sushruta has described sleep as maya or illusion of God Vishnu. As Vishnu


is protector and provider of universe, so as sleep is also protector and
provider of human being.

Benefits of sleep -

Proper sleep is considered as indirect best nutrient, gives pleasure, gives


strength, strengthens Shukra tissue, helps to acquire knowledge and
promotes long life.

Types -

1) Tamobhava - Because of increase in tamas quality. This type of sleep


generally comes at the time of death.

2) Shleshma samudbhava – Due to excess Kapha.

134
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

3) Mana Shirara samudbhava – Due to physical and mental fatigue.

4) Agantuk -Without any reason, comes as arishta symptom.

5) Vyadhyanuvartini – Due to diseases, e.g. In Kapha diseases, sleep is


excess

6) Ratri swabhava prabhava - Regular sleep at night.

According to Ayurveda, the amount of sleep you need depends on your


mind-body constitution or body type. People with Kapha constitution need
the most sleep - about eight or nine hours in order to feel rested. Pitta
constitution persons are next, with a need of seven to eight hours. Vata
constitution persons can manage with six to seven hours of sleep.
Your requirements of sleep also depends on what stage of life are you in.
Babies can sleep as much as 15 or 16 hours out of every 24. Children
frequently sleep 10 hours or more. At the other extreme, elderly people
rarely enjoy a sound, unbroken sleep of more than four or five hours.

Ayurveda considers childhood to be the Kapha stage of life. Adulthood is


Pitta time, and old age is the Vata stage of life. So the same principle applies
here as with body types: we need the most sleep during the Kapha stage, the
least during Vata time.

How Much Sleep Do You Need?

Your sleep needs are largely determined by your Ayurvedic body type -Vata
= 6-7 hours, Pitta = 7-8 hours, Kapha = 8-9 hours.

Insomnia -

Insomnia is a sleep disorder in which a person experiences poor sleep or has


trouble sleeping, difficulty in falling asleep, difficulty staying asleep (that is,
waking up many times during the night), without necessarily having had any
difficulty falling asleep, waking up too early in the morning, not feeling
refreshed after a night's sleep. In any of these cases the person feels tired the
next day, or feels as if he or she did not have enough sleep.

135
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Causes

1. Aggravated Vata - Vata governs movement everywhere in the body. An


unbalanced Vata creates the environment conducive to the initiation of
insomnia - the inability to sleep well.

Signs of Vata aggravation include anxiety, worry, fear, and restlessness.


Each of these can also cause disturbed Vata. Stress, excessive exercise or
sexual activity for your body type, eating a too- light diet, fasting, staying up
late all create agitation in the central nervous system and throw Vata out of
balance. (You don't even have to have a Vata body type to have an
aggravated Vata.)

2. Disturbances of Routine -When you break your own regular habit


patterns, you are prone to get insomnia. Examples are: crossing time zones
when traveling or staying up late working several nights in a row. These
disturbances in daily routine puts the person out of daily routine and then he
cannot get back into his usual rhythm.

According to Ayurveda, nature also has its own rhythm. Insomnia can result
when we are out of harmony with nature's regular patterns. The natural
cycles run through phases of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. We are healthiest when
we organize our lives in tune with nature's rhythms.

Both of these causes - Vata aggravation and disturbances of routine - can


easily be corrected by Ayurvedic methods.

Effects – Various diseases like hypertension, weakness and impotency.

Persons eligible for day time sleep - A person who is tired because of –
singing, alcohol consumption, sex, scientific experiments, physical hard
work and indigestion, weak person, old person, child and females.
Patients suffering from- diarrhea, indigestion, hiccough, pain, injured,
maniac and suffering from grief and anger.

In summer season, because night is smaller than day hours and because of
hot nature of climate, day sleep can be taken.
If day sleep is taken in other seasons, then kapha and pitta gets vitiated.

136
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

But the persons having kapha constitution, kapha vitiation and fatty persons
should not sleep in day time in any season.

Diseases due to excess daytime sleep – Headache, body ache, heaviness in


chest, edema, indigestion, rhinitis, migraine, itching, cough, fever, loss of
memory and various skin diseases.

If a person doesn’t lie down and sleeps by sitting only, then no vitiation of
kapha or vata (during no sleep at night) occurs.

Treatment -

1. Abhyanga –Oil massage -Warm oil massage is one of the simplest and
most effective ways to induce sleep is to rub some oil on the scalp and the
soles of the feet before going to bed. Use sesame oil, brahmi oil, jasmine oil,
cow's ghee or jatamansi oil, and massage gently for a few minutes. Slightly
warming the oil before applying is helpful. Depending on an individual's
body type, different kinds of oil are used at varying temperatures to relax the
nervous system. These include -Coconut oil (Pitta type, used at room
temperature), Sesame oil (Vata type, applied warm), Mustard oil (Kapha
type, applied warm)

Massage soles of the feet with cow's milk at night. Add some camphor
during summer days.

2. Diet - A healthy diet can help in getting a good restful sleep at night. The
following guidelines must be obeyed:-1. A glass of milk before bedtime is
good for sleep. Butter and ghee are also considered to be sleep-inducers. 2.
As far as possible, spicy and oily foods must be avoided after dusk,
especially if the person is prone to lose sleep at night.

Warm milk -Drinking a cup of warm milk before going to bed helps bring
on a peaceful sleep. (Skip this if you are suffering from lactose intolerance.)
You can drink plain milk if you prefer, but the following suggestions will
make it more delicious as well as more effective. Add a pinch (up to 1/8
teaspoon) of nutmeg. Add some crushed almonds (blanched is better), a
pinch of nutmeg, and a pinch of cardamom. You can prepare the almonds in
a nut grinder or coffee grinder.

137
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Try garlic milk. Mix together 1 cup milk, 1/4 cup water, and 1 clove of
fresh, chopped garlic. Boil gently until 1 cup of liquid remains.

Suggestions -

Here are some Ayurvedic suggestions for falling asleep easily and naturally
and for obtaining a more rejuvenating quality of sleep:

Ayurveda decrees morning the best time to exercise. If you exercise in the
morning, it will help you fall asleep easier at night. Working out late in the
day is not recommended as this will raise energy levels and set you up for
activity rather than sleep. Exercise moderately, according to the needs of
your constitution, every day.

Do not eat a heavy dinner, and avoid spicy foods at night. Ayurveda
recommends a light dinner eaten at least three hours before bed. A one-dish
meal of a vegetable soup or mung bean kitcheree is nourishing yet not too
heavy. Do not drink too much water or other beverages after 6.30 p.m. Drink
a cup of warm milk at bedtime to help lull you into sleep. Lace the milk with
a large pinch of nutmeg for Vata, cardamom for Pitta and dried ginger for
Kapha.

A lower limb massage last thing before you get into bed is also a pleasant,
relaxing activity and helps improve sleep quality. Use a light, non-staining
oil such as sweet almond or jojoba. Your bedtime massage oil can be spiced
up with a few drops of essential oil of lavender if you like-6-8 drops for 2
oz. of base oil. Take a very small quantity of the oil in your palm and
massage your lower legs, from your knees to your toes, and your lower
arms, from your elbows to your fingertips, with easy up-and-down strokes.

Home remedies -

138
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

1. Take a glassful of celery juice and mix a teaspoonful of honey in it. Have
this every night before going to bed. It will assure a restful sleep throughout
the night.

2. Grind some fried cumin seed to a fine powder. Mix them with the pulp of
a ripe banana. Eating this at night induces sleep.

Shirodhara -

Boil about two liters of cow’s milk with 60 grams of amalaki (Emblica
officinalis, Indian gooseberry) powder. The milk with curdle. Churn this
curd by adding water and extract butter from it. Make the patient lie flat on
the ground on a mat. Suspend the buttermilk from an earthen pot with a hole
in its base, such that the buttermilk drips directly between the two eyebrows
of the person on the ground. Continue this therapy for about twenty minutes.
Within a few days the insomnia will be totally cured.

The best way to treat insomnia is to seek a change in the lifestyle. Make
your life simpler and avoid tensions and worries. This will not only provide
good sleep, but it will also keep the body free from several other diseases
and infections.

A hot bath or shower at bedtime helps to soothe vata and promote sound
sleep. Mind pleasing smells/perfumes are useful with slowly pressing of
body parts.

Yoga – Following postures are recommended –Paschimottasana,


shavashana, shirasana, sarvangasana, uttanasana, balaashana, makarashana

Pranayama - Anulom vilom type is beneficial.

Meditation -

139
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Sleep disturbances are often due to worries and anxieties that keep the mind
agitated at night. To help eliminate those anxieties, meditate for a while
before going to sleep.

Sit comfortably on your bed and put your attention on the "third eye" (the
area on your forehead between your eyebrows).

Follow your breath in and out, or do the traditional So-Hum meditation:


Inhale while thinking the syllable "So" and exhale with "Hum."

Lie on your back. Watch your breath, and continue the So-Hum meditation,
focusing your mind gently on the "third eye." You will sleep like a child.

Repeat or chant soothing mantras and affirmations, such as "I sleep


properly," in the morning and evening. This reduces the anxiety and fear that
can interfere with normal sleeping habits.

Other forms of meditation, including the use of visualization and


aromatherapy (essential oils of sandalwood, chamomile, jasmine or rose),
can also be effective.

Ayurvedic breathing exercise -

Lie down in bed with the light off and allow yourself to fall asleep while
doing the following breathing exercises. Focus on deep regular breathing for
a few seconds. Give thanks for all the joys, experiences, even the trials of
your day. Keeping an awareness of your breath, get into your most
comfortable sleeping position. If you feel restless, just acknowledge that this
excess energy will pass. Continue to breathe slowly and deeply. Try to
imagine what your body feels like when it is in a deep relaxing sleep and
allow yourself to drift into that sleepy state. If you wake in the night, do not
get agitated, simply repeat the exercise.

Herbs -

1. Take the following herbs with water or milk thrice daily -Brahmi (Bacopa
Monrnera) 500mg - 1 gm, Vacha (Acorus Calamus) 100mg - 1 gm, Amla -1
gm or more and Shankhpushpi 250 mg. to the above- mentioned powders.

140
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

2. Vatakulantaka (125mg) may be taken twice daily with honey.

3. Nidrodaya Rasa-125mg to be taken with honey at bed- time (one dose


only):

141
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Chapter 14

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome –CFS- Mansagata /


Mansavruta Vata

CFS is a recently recognized disorder that is regarded as a chronic condition


associated with the experience of non-inflammatory pain and tenderness in
muscles, ligaments, joints and fatigue.

Ayurvedic View

It can be described as 'Mansa Dhatugat and Mansavrut Vata'. CFS is


perceived as a Vata imbalance with vitiation of muscle and nerve tissue in
the body. Vata is the main imbalance and aggravated Vata destabilizes the
nervous system and can create hypersensitivity leading to pain and
tenderness. Accumulation of Ama (toxins) and obstruction in the channels
are also contributory factors.

Symptoms –
Debilitating fatigue, muscle pain, mental confusion, generalized aches and
pains, stiffness of various muscles in the body and psychological complaints.

Treatment - - -
The aggravation of Vata dosha and accumulation of Ama (toxins) are the
primary causes and should be treated mainly. Associated weak digestion,
constipation, and effects of chronic stress should also be tackled.

Panchakarma Therapy - Pre-purification by oleation and fomentation are


very useful to balance 'Vata' and to loosen the toxins. For oil massage,
medicated oils of ashwagandha, bala or rasna are the best as they have Anti-

142
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Vata properties. Daily oil massage will provide soothing and


balancing effect to the entire nervous system. The motion of massage creates
heat and friction which enhances circulation and helps cleanse the areas
of chemical impurities that could be aggravating and hyper-sensitizing nerve
tissues. For fomentation medicated smoke of herbs having anti-Vata action
should be used.

Research - Massage therapy improved on the dolorimeter measure of pain.


Patients with massage reported less pain, stiffness and fatigue and fewer
nights of disturbed sleep. It is better than TENS (Trancutaneous electrical
Stimulation).

Diet and Nutrition –


Do’s
Vegetable juices and soups, coconut water and coconut milk, juice of carrot,
Cucumber, beetroot, cooked vegetables like squash, zucchini and pumpkin,
spices like cumin, coriander, ginger asafetida, garlic, fennel and turmeric,
green salad with a dressing of lemon juice and a little salt, khichadi (recipe
made by cooking rice and mung dal, 1:1 or 1:2 proportion).

Don’ts -Eating hot, spicy and fried foods, sweets, foods like brinjal,
cabbage, Cauliflower, spinach, broccoli, okra and potatoes. Too much tea,
coffee, alcohol, white sugar, yogurt, chocolate, cocoa. Sleeping during the
day and staying up late at night Mental tensions like worry, anxiety, fear,
stress and grief.

Yoga -It is well documented that CFS is often worsened by heightened


stress, anxiety and mental fatigue. There are hormonal changes and other
biochemical responses to stress that can aggravate the nervous system, and
the immune response. The sleep disturbance that is often created by CFS
symptoms increases fatigue which in turn increases one's susceptibility to
stress which in turn aggravates the CFS condition.

143
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Meditation -Yoga, Pranayama and studying of spiritual philosophy are all


recommended for supporting personal healing and relaxation of the mind.
Efforts should be made to increase the Sattvic quality of mind.

Yoga Postures -Various stretching exercises are known to have a positive


effect on fibromyalgia. Regular practicing of sets of different postures are
helpful in creating a healthy flexibility throughout the body. Yogic breathing
practices will also create a state of restful alertness in mind and body.
Progressive deep relaxation, i.e., shavasana (Corpse posture) brings about a
relaxed state of mind which prepares the individual for meditation.
Makarasana is also very useful

Lifestyle and Daily Routine -

One of the most important factors for balancing Vata and maintaining
stability in the nervous system is to have a lifestyle that does not disturb
natural bodily rhythms. When we eat, sleep and exercise in constantly
fluctuating and disturbing patterns, the body loses its natural balancing
cycles. Therefore regularity in our daily routine can be extremely effective
in reducing Vata imbalances.

Ayurvedic Herbs -

Decoction of the roots of ten herbs (Dashamularishtam) should be given in


the dose of 30 ml., twice daily.

Daily use of the Ayurvedic compound 'Triphala choorna' is recommended


to cleanse the colon.

Half a teaspoon of turmeric powder with warm water helps to reduce pain
and inflammation in Fibromyalgia. Dosage: twice a day

Garlic is useful for detoxification and to enhance immune system function.

Guggul is a very helpful herb for relief of pain.

144
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Licorice root supports the glandular system and acts in the body like
cortisone, but without the harmful side-effects.

Ginger Tea. Ginger is a good alternative to aspirin to relieve minor aches


and pains. Steep 1 teaspoon of the grated root in 8 ounces of hot water for 10
minutes. Strain. Add honey for taste, if you like. Alternatively, take 1 to 2
Grams of powdered ginger a day with food.

Formulations –

Dashamularishta, Triphala guggulu, Maharasnadi Kwath, Vata Vidhwansa


Rasa, Laxmi-Vilas-Rasa, Shrung-Bhasma, Punarnava-Mandur, Tapyadi-
Loha, Medhya rasayana, Yograj-Guggulu, Kaishor-Guggulu

145
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Chapter 15

Epilepsy - Apasmara

Definition
Epilepsy is characterized by convulsive seizure. With each convulsive
attack or seizure, patient loses some part of the memory; hence it is called as
"Apasmara.’ (Su. utt. 61/3, M.N. apas.1 and Ch.ni.8)
Etiology
Withholding natural urges, improper contact of sense organs with their
objects – perverted, excess or low- intake of impure, junk, toxic, preserved,
stale food; excitation of mind due to vitiation of rajas and tamas qualities.
(Su.utt.61/3). It can be mainly due to two main causes: Intracranial and Extra
cranial.
Intracranial causes include increased intracranial pressure due to tumor,
hydrocephalous, or sub arachnoid hemorrhage, other inflammatory
conditions of brain and meninges, trauma, vascular abnormalities, and
degenerative disorders.
Extra cranial causes include toxins, anoxia, endogenous causes, metabolic
and endocrine disorders. It can be due to an inherited constitutional
tendency.

Pathogenesis
When vitiated prana and Udana with Pitta and Kapha enter the nervous
system and channel of the mind, they vitiate rajas and tamas and produce
this disease (Su.utt.61/4).

Types
It has been divided into Vata, Pitta, and Kapha and due to vitiation of all
doshas.

Prodromal symptoms
Palpitations, excessive perspiration, loss of functions of the sense organs,
feeling of emptiness in the head and dreams of various types. (M.N.)

Symptoms
These are according to the stage of attack and stage of in between the attack.
The attacks can come after one week, ten days or after month. In between

146
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

the attacks the patient looks quite normal in appearance.


During the attack patient becomes unconscious, with jerky movements of the

arms and legs, convulsions, grinding of teeth, moaning, crying, and hearing

of non-existent things. He may pass urine or stool and there may be froth at

the mouth. (Harita samhita 3).

1.Vata type - frequent loss of consciousness and very quick regaining the
same is main symptom. There may be stiffness, bulging of the eyes,
weeping, and visualizing nonexistent things.
2.Pitta type - during the attack, face, eyes, nails and skin may become

yellowish, greenish or blood stained. Sensation of burning after regaining

consciousness is present many times.

3.Kapha type- Loss of consciousness, and slow regaining after a long time is

present. The patient falls to the ground heavily and there is profuse

salivation at the mouth with froth. All these symptoms and attacks occur

during full moon day and no moon day.

4.Tridoshaja type- Mixed symptoms of all above types are seen.

Prognosis
Sannipatik or tridoshaja type is incurable. Similarly the type in which the
frequency of attacks is quite often, and there is tissue loss, is also incurable.

Treatment
During the attack, sanjnyaprabodhana (regaining consciousness) treatment
should be done by various methods like nasya, anjana-collyrium- or dhooma
- inhalation of medicated smoke.
For nasya -nasal instillation of hot and penetrating qualities should be done.
This is known as "pradhamana nasya." Herbs like Acorus calamus or acacia
concina are used in powder form for this purpose.

147
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Similarly collyrium with substances that will irritate eyes and medicated

smoke inhalation should also be done for the same purpose.

For collyrium one can use paste prepared from triphala, trikatu, asafetida,
calamus or mustard seeds.
For medicated smoke piper longum, shigru, asafetida, rock salt can be used.
Proper care must be taken that the patient does not bite or swallow his
tongue during this period.

After the attack is over, an attempt should be made to find out its cause.
Treat the main cause. If it is not found, treatment should be directed for
increasing sattva and palliation of vitiated dosha.
1. Vata type-
Herbs of choice are Acorus calamus, gotu kola, shankhapushpi, and
jyotishmati. All these are medhya rasayana herbs to improve the memory.
a) Smruti sagar rasa (RYS) – Prepare mixture of kajjali, haratal, manashila
and tamra oxide. Then triturate it with juice of brahmi and decoction of
vacha. Dose 125 mg. twice a day should be given for 1 month with
sarasvatarishta 15 ml. 3 times a day.

2. Pitta type-
a) Kushmanda ghee- Contains kushmanda and licorice.
b) Paniyakalyanaka ghruta- Contains triphala, haridra, daruharidra,
manjishtha, vidanga and dashamula.
Similarly to improve memory tab. brahmi bati 250 mg. 3 times a day should
be given at least for 3 months.

3. Kapha type-
For removing Kapha, nasal instillation of old medicated ghee prepared by
vacha or brahmi is indicated. The older the ghee, it is more useful in this
disease. Old ghee has penetrating qualities; hence its action produces severe
irritation. This removes Kapha (in the form of mucous secretions) from the
sinuses, head and neck region. Therefore it is advisable that patient should
be informed appropriately about these effects before carrying out this
procedure.
b) Tab.Unmada-gaja-kesari (BR) 250 mg; twice a day or
b) Chaturmukha rasa (BR) with gold 125 mg. twice a day

148
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Bio Data of Authors

Prof. Dr. Subhash Ranade

Dr. Subhash Ranade is one of the foremost experts on Ayurveda. He is


leading academician and physician in the field of Ayurveda. He is the
author of 132 books on Ayurveda and Yoga. These books have been
published in Marathi, Hindi, Malayalam, English, French, Czechoslovakian,
German, Greek, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Russian and
Spanish languages. (www.ayurvedakarmayoga.com)

He has worked as Prof. and Head, Dept. of Interdisciplinary School of


Ayurveda and Prof. and Head, Dept. of Ayurveda Pune University and
Principal of Ashtang Ayurveda College, Pune, India.
At present he is working as the Chairman of International Academy of
Ayurveda (www.ayurved-int.com)

Professor Subhash Ranade has given many television interviews on


Ayurveda, not only in India but also in USA, Poland, Italy, Germany, Brazil
and Chile as well. He has also attended many International and National
seminars on Ayurveda and Yoga. He has written hundreds of articles on
Ayurveda and Yoga in various magazines and newspapers.

He has the honor of being visiting Professor to many Institutes in the United
States like Kerala Ayurveda Academy Seattle, Foster city, Los Angeles;
Wellness center in Baltimore, USA; SEVA academy Munich, Germany;
SKA Ayurveda, Milan, Italy; School of Ayurvedic Culture, Barcelona,
Spain; Body-Mind Health, Zurich, Swiss, Ultimate Health Center, Athens,
Greece, Ayurvedic International Diffusing Association, Japan, Post
Graduate Institute –Buenos Aires in Argentina, Yoga federation in Lisbon,
Portugal and Israeli Center of Ayurveda, Broshim Campus, Tel Aviv and
Shudha Dharma Mandal in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Dr. Bhaskar Patil

149
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

Dr. Bhaskar Patil is an Ayurvedic consultant and specialized in Ayurvedic


Psychology. He has conducted various seminars and lectures in India and
abroad. He is a faculty member of International Academy Of Ayurved.

He has also worked as a Project co-coordinator for Medical Project in


UBICS Inc, an IT arm of The UB Group.

Dr. Bhaskar Patil has visited many Institutes like Kerala Ayurveda
Academy, Foster city, USA; Osrodek Pomocy Zdrowiu, Warsaw, Poland.
He has also traveled various countries like USA, Malaysia, UK, Singapore,
Poland, Thailand, for propagation of Ayurveda.

He is also a member of Mahratta Chamber Of Commerce and Industries and


Lions Club International.

150
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

OTHER PUBLICATIONS
You can purchase various other ebooks published by us -

1] Ayurvedic Cure of Diabetes

2] Treatment of common diseases with Ayurveda & Yoga Vol -1


&2

3] Home remedies in Ayurveda

4] Ayurvedic Principles Revealed

5] Ayurvedic Pathology

6] Ayurvedic Physiology

7] Ayurvedic Nutrition and Cooking

8] Losing weight with Ayurveda and Yoga

9] Arthritis Ayurveda and You

10] Ayurveda For Heart Diseases

11] Ayurvedic Art of Diagnosis

12] Review of History of Ayurveda

13] Ayurvedic Herbology

14] Ayurvedic Management of Thyroid disorders

BY visiting - http://www.ayurveda-foryou.com/ebook/ebook.html

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

151
Ayurvedic Psychotherapy

You can also download FREE samples Of these ebooks By visiting --

- http://ayurveda-foryou.com/ebook/freedownload.html

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

You can enroll for FREE email courses on

1] Basic principles of Ayurveda and

2] Tridosha - Vata Pitta Kapha

By visiting --

http://ayurveda-foryou.com/ebook/freedownload.html

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

We conduct Online Certificate courses in

‘Basic course in Ayurveda’

‘Ayurvedic Herbology’

Visit : http://ayurveda-foryou.com/online_course.html for


enrollment.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Advanced courses
Advanced clinical training in Ayurveda, Herbology, Panchakarma,
Massage, Marma Massage etc. are also conducted through

International Academy of Ayurveda Pune, Maharashtra, INDIA.

www.ayurved-int.com

152

Potrebbero piacerti anche