Abstract

AYURVEDIC UNDERSTANDING OF ADHD

Dr. Sruthi Sajeev*, Dr. Arun Pratap, Dr. Lekshmi R. and Dr. Arjun Chand C.P.

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Abstract

ADHD is a complex neurobehavioral psychosomatic disorder, which affects millions of children and often persists into adulthood. The prevalence of ADHD among primary school children was found to be 11.3%. Prevalence was found to be higher among the males 66.7% as compared to that of females 33.3%. Scientists are not sure what causes ADHD although many studies suggest that genes play a large role. According to the 4th edition, American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-IV criteria), the core symptoms of ADHD are 1) inattention 2) hyperactivity and 3) impulsivity. In Ayurveda it occurs due to Vibramsha of Dhee (rational thinking), Dhriti (intellect / retaining power of the mind), which results into improper contact of the senses with their objectives and give rise to Inattention- Kapha Pradhana Manovikara with Tamo Guna, Hyperactivity – Vata Pradhana Manovikara with Rajo Guna and Impulsivity- Vata Pitta Pradhana Tridoshaja Manovikara with Rajas and Tamas Vruddhi which can be co related to the Lakshanas like Chapala Chesta, Chala Asthiram, Bahubhasitam, Autsukyam Avicharya Karya Pravrutti. In modern sciences, treatment predominantly relies on prescribing medications and psychosocial therapy and these treatments has its own adverse effects. It is not a disease but a group of abnormal behaviour which can be brought under control by a combination of Ayurvedic medicines, Yogasana and Satvavajaya Chikitsa as well after seeing the condition i.e in Kapha Pradhana Manovikara with Tamas Vruddhi-Sarvanga Abhyanga, Shirodhara, Shirothalam. In Vata Pradhana Manovikara with Rajas and Vata Pitta Pradhana Manovikara with Tamas and Rajas –Ghrtapanam, Abhyanga, Matrabasti and Shamana Oushadhis are adviced. Hence an humble effort is made to understand Ayurvedic view of Attention- Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

Keywords: ADHD, Manovikara, Dhee Dhriti Vibramsh.