Prospective comparative Phase-II clinical study to evaluate the efficacy of complete regimen Shirodhara Nasya Jatamansi ghanavati and shavasana in chittidvega with special reference to Generalized anxiety disorder.

About Author

Correspondence Address

Dr Sanjivani Rathod
Associate professor & HOD, Kayachikitsa Dept.
Ayurved Seva Sangh Ayurved Mahavidyalaya Nashik.

Contact No. : 8007229141, Email : sanjivanirathod431@gmail.com

Date of Acceptance : 11 Sep 2024

Date of Publication : 27 Sep 2024

Article ID : SD-IJAY_108

How to cite this article : http://doi.org/10.55552/SDNJAY.2024.2311

Abstract

Chittodvega, classified as a ManasRoga in Ayurveda, correlates closely with generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) in modern psychiatric terms, both characterised by states of heightened anxiety and mental unrest. This prospective, comparative, phase II clinical study aims to evaluate the efficacy of a comprehensive Ayurvedic regimen consisting of Shirodhara, Nasya, Jatamansighana, and Shavasana in managing Chittodvega with a specific focus on GAD.

The study will be conducted over a duration of 3 months at OPD No. 14, Arogyashala Rugnalaya, Panchvati, Nashik, involving 6 adult patients diagnosed with GAD.

KEY WORDS:-  Chittodvega, Manasroga, Generalized Anxiety Disirder (GAD), Mental unrest

Introduction

Chittodvega, a type of ManasRoga, develops due to the vitiation of Raja and Tama and can be correlated with generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) based on its etymology indicating an anxious state of mind. The present study aims to explore the effectiveness of Shirodhara, Nasya, Jatamansighana, and Shavasana in patients with GAD. Data suggests that approximately 5.8% of individuals suffer from GAD in anxiety disorder clinics. (1) Modern medical treatments for GAD often involve long-term use of sedatives, hypnotics, and anxiolytic drugs, which can lead to side effects. (2) Therefore, it is imperative to seek treatments that effectively cure the disease without causing additional health issues.

Discussion

The connection between the body and mind is fundamental in Ayurveda, as emphasised by Acharya Charaka, who identified stress (Chinta) and overthinking (Atichintan) as key factors in the disruption of Rasavaha Srotas, leading to various diseases. Stress exacerbates Vata, the dosha associated with movement and air, which adversely impacts the heart and destabilises buddhi (intellect) and smriti (memory). Ayurvedic physiology describes Tridosha (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) as the functional units that maintain or disturb bodily equilibrium. (10)

Shirodhara: This treatment involves the steady dripping of warm oil, typically sesame or medicated herbal oil, on the forehead for 30 to 42 minutes. Shirodhara helps control aggravated Vata, thereby reducing its negative effects on Buddhi and smriti. Studies have shown that Shirodhara significantly decreases anxiety levels and reduces plasma noradrenaline, a stress hormone, contributing to a calming effect on the nervous system. (11)

Nasya Karma: The administration of medication through the nose, Nasya Karma targets the central nervous system and upper body by delivering herbal oils or powders directly into the nasal passages. This method eliminates morbid doshas from the head, improving cognitive functions and relieving conditions like sinusitis, migraines, and stress. The drugs administered through Nasya reach the ShringatakaMarma, a critical area formed by the union of vessels supplying the nose, ears, eyes, and throat, thus purifying these channels.(12)

Shavasana: Shavasana, a supine relaxation posture, is practiced for physical and mental relaxation. Unlike simple rest, it involves conscious relaxation of the mind and body, aiming to release tensions at a deep level. Yoga practices, including asanas and pranayama, help regulate the autonomic nervous system. They stimulate the vagus nerve, which enhances parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) activity, reducing stress and anxiety. These practices lower cortisol levels, decrease sympathetic nervous system activity, and increase vagal tone, thus promoting relaxation and reducing symptoms of stress. (13)

Jatamansi (Nardostachysjatamansi): This herb has been studied for its significant anti-stress, anxiolytic, and antidepressant properties. Jatamansi acts as a nervine tonic, reducing mental exhaustion and lowering cortisol levels. It enhances GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) levels, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. It also improves cognitive functions, enhances memory, and protects against stress-induced memory impairments. Additionally, Jatamansi improves sleep quality by calming the nervous system and regulating sleep patterns. (14)

Combined, these Ayurvedic and yoga-based techniques promote physical and mental relaxation, balance physiological responses to stress, and improve overall health and well-being. They are particularly effective in reducing anxiety, enhancing cognitive functions, and improving sleep quality, making them comprehensive strategies for managing stress and anxiety.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ayurvedic practices and yoga-based techniques offer holistic approaches to managing stress and promoting overall well-being. Through methods like Shirodhara, Nasya Karma, and Shavasana, Ayurveda targets the root causes of stress by balancing the Tridosha system and calming the nervous system. These therapies not only alleviate symptoms of anxiety but also enhance cognitive functions and improve sleep quality. Moreover, herbs like Jatamansi further support these benefits by reducing cortisol levels and promoting relaxation. By integrating these ancient wisdoms into modern lifestyles, individuals can cultivate resilience against stress, foster mental clarity, and achieve enduring harmony between body and mind. Thus, Ayurveda and yoga represent powerful tools for navigating the complexities of contemporary life while nurturing enduring states of tranquillity and vitality. As the serum cortisol level of the 6 individuals in this study is in a normal range (i.e., 5–23 at 8am, 3–16 at 4pm, and less than 50% of 8am at 8pm),. 8 a.m. is an ideal time for the rise of sr. cortisol level in human blood; there is not much significant difference in serum cortisol level in the individuals during use of this regimen. (15)

By structuring this pilot study with a rigorous methodology and ethical considerations, you aim to evaluate the initial efficacy and safety of Ayurvedic interventions for managing generalised anxiety disorder (GAD). This study will provide preliminary insights and lay the groundwork for larger-scale studies to further explore these traditional treatments in integrative medicine.

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