Ayurveda Treatment for Mental Disorders

Speaking in terms of the use of Ayurveda treatments for mental disorders, there is always a misconception that Ayurveda sees all such mental diseases with the lens of superstitions. But the fact remains that Ayurveda is as effective as the modern psychiatry in treating mental disorders and of the many concoctions used in treating such disorders, one of the major ones is Maha-Paishachika-Khrutham which is a kind of ghee prepared as per the Ayurveda formulas. This concoction is mentioned in the chapter named Unmada Chikithsa in Charakasamhitha.

According to Ayurveda, mental disorders are defined as a state wherein the mind malfunctions and moves in the wrong direction just like a chariot without a charioteer. The aforementioned concoction has proved to be effective in many mental disorders including the various stages of psychosis. It has also been proved effective in treating epilepsy.

In terms of Ayurveda, most of such mental disorders termed as possession or badha and this term has led way for many misconceptions about the Ayurveda treatment for mental disorders. Ayurveda sees these disorders as the projection of the suppressed desires of the weak mind for love, violence, sex or respect, which was imprinted by some traumatic events of the past. The Maha-Paishachika-Khrutham with its name (which literally means the demon ghee) has been proved in enhancing the mental health of such individuals and this concoction includes ingredients like Spikenard, Harde whole, Keshi, Charadi, Markadiand sweet flag.

Ayurveda treats depression with herbal medicines such as Crataegus oxyacantha (hawthorn),Eschscholziacalifornica (California poppy),Ginkgo biloba,Lavandula angustifolia(lavender). Whereas Stress and Anxiety treatment is different in which  Mulungu Bark,Rhodiola Rosea,Ashwagandha and Lavender are using as medicines.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is being treated by Ayurveda using Centella asiatica (Mandukparni),Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi),Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha),Celatsrus paniculatus (Jyotismati).

Bipolar Disorder also known as manic- depression is treated by using Brahmi, Fish oil rich in omega 3, Magnesium and Passion Flower.

It is important to note that this concoction and similar concoctions are used only when prescribed by a qualified Ayurveda practitioner and not otherwise.